Remove Smart Search browser hijacker

Smart Search is a browser hijacker that modifies browser settings to control how users access search results and web pages. After installation, it typically changes the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page without clear permission. These changes are intended to redirect user activity through a specific search service controlled by the hijacker.

 

 

The search service promoted by Smart Search may appear functional, but it does not operate as an independent search engine. Instead, it redirects queries to other providers while maintaining control over the process. This allows the hijacker to influence search results, including displaying sponsored links or redirecting users to promoted pages.

One of the noticeable effects of the Smart Search browser hijacker is the inconsistency between browser settings and actual behavior. Even if users attempt to restore their preferred search engine, the browser may continue to route queries through the hijacker’s domain. This happens because the changes are enforced at a deeper level within the browser.

The hijacker may also alter the appearance of the new tab page. Users can see a customized interface with a search bar and shortcuts that were not added manually. These elements are designed to keep users within the controlled search environment.

Another aspect of Smart Search is data tracking. The hijacker may collect information such as search queries, visited websites, IP addresses, and other browsing-related data. This information can be used to display targeted content or for other purposes outside the user’s control.

While Smart Search does not usually damage files or the operating system, it reduces control over the browser and introduces unwanted behavior. Redirects, modified results, and persistent setting changes can affect normal browsing.

How Smart Search is installed and how to avoid it

Smart Search is often installed through bundled software or browser extensions. It is commonly included with free applications downloaded from unofficial sources. During installation, additional components may be presented as optional, but they can be enabled by default.

Browser extensions are another common source. Some extensions are promoted as useful tools for searching, browsing, or productivity. However, they request permissions that allow them to modify browser settings. Once installed, these permissions enable the hijacker to take control of search behavior.

The installation process often relies on users not reviewing all steps carefully. Default or recommended settings may include additional software, which can be installed without clear awareness. This is one of the main ways browser hijackers are introduced.

To prevent Smart Search, it is important to review the installation steps carefully. Choosing advanced or custom installation options allows users to see all included components and decline those that are not necessary.

It is also recommended to install browser extensions only from trusted sources and to review their permissions. Extensions that request control over search settings or browsing data should be examined carefully.

Remove Smart Search browser hijacker

If Smart Search is already present, checking recently installed programs and extensions can help identify the source. Removing unfamiliar components and resetting browser settings can restore normal behavior and stop unwanted redirects.

While browser hijackers are not serious infections, they can be difficult to remove manually, so using an anti-virus program is recommended. Once the hijacker is no longer installed, the browser’s settings can be changed.

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Quick Menu

Step 1. Uninstall Smart Search and related programs.

• Windows 8
• Windows 7
• Windows XP
• Mac OS

Remove Smart Search from Windows 8

Right-click in the lower left corner of the screen. Once Quick Access Menu shows up, select Control Panel choose Programs and Features and select to Uninstall a software.

Uninstall Smart Search from Windows 7

Click Start → Control Panel → Programs and Features → Uninstall a program.

Delete Smart Search from Windows XP

Click Start → Settings → Control Panel. Locate and click → Add or Remove Programs.

Remove Smart Search from Mac OS X

Click Go button at the top left of the screen and select Applications. Select applications folder and look for Smart Search or any other suspicious software. Now right click on every of such entries and select Move to Trash, then right click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.

Step 2. Delete Smart Search from your browsers

• Internet Explorer
• Chrome
• Firefox
• Safari

Terminate the unwanted extensions from Internet Explorer

1. Tap the Gear icon and go to Manage Add-ons.
2. Pick Toolbars and Extensions and eliminate all suspicious entries (other than Microsoft, Yahoo, Google, Oracle or Adobe)
3. Leave the window.

Change Internet Explorer homepage if it was changed by virus:

1. Tap the gear icon (menu) on the top right corner of your browser and click Internet Options.
2. In General Tab remove malicious URL and enter preferable domain name. Press Apply to save changes.

Reset your browser

1. Click the Gear icon and move to Internet Options.
2. Open the Advanced tab and press Reset.
3. Choose Delete personal settings and pick Reset one more time.
4. Tap Close and leave your browser.
5. If you were unable to reset your browsers, employ a reputable anti-malware and scan your entire computer with it.

Erase Smart Search from Google Chrome

1. Access menu (top right corner of the window) and pick Settings.
2. Choose Extensions.
3. Eliminate the suspicious extensions from the list by clicking the Trash bin next to them.
4. If you are unsure which extensions to remove, you can disable them temporarily.

Reset Google Chrome homepage and default search engine if it was hijacker by virus

1. Press on menu icon and click Settings.
2. Look for the “Open a specific page” or “Set Pages” under “On start up” option and click on Set pages.
3. In another window remove malicious search sites and enter the one that you want to use as your homepage.
4. Under the Search section choose Manage Search engines. When in Search Engines..., remove malicious search websites. You should leave only Google or your preferred search name.
   

Reset your browser

1. If the browser still does not work the way you prefer, you can reset its settings.
2. Open menu and navigate to Settings.
3. Press Reset button at the end of the page.
4. Tap Reset button one more time in the confirmation box.
5. If you cannot reset the settings, purchase a legitimate anti-malware and scan your PC.

Remove Smart Search from Mozilla Firefox

1. In the top right corner of the screen, press menu and choose Add-ons (or tap Ctrl+Shift+A simultaneously).
2. Move to Extensions and Add-ons list and uninstall all suspicious and unknown entries.

Change Mozilla Firefox homepage if it was changed by virus:

1. Tap on the menu (top right corner), choose Options.
2. On General tab delete malicious URL and enter preferable website or click Restore to default.
3. Press OK to save these changes.

Reset your browser

1. Open the menu and tap Help button.
2. Select Troubleshooting Information.
3. Press Refresh Firefox.
4. In the confirmation box, click Refresh Firefox once more.
5. If you are unable to reset Mozilla Firefox, scan your entire computer with a trustworthy anti-malware.

Uninstall Smart Search from Safari (Mac OS X)

1. Access the menu.
2. Pick Preferences.
3. Go to the Extensions Tab.
4. Tap the Uninstall button next to the undesirable Smart Search and get rid of all the other unknown entries as well. If you are unsure whether the extension is reliable or not, simply uncheck the Enable box in order to disable it temporarily.
5. Restart Safari.

Reset your browser

1. Tap the menu icon and choose Reset Safari.
2. Pick the options which you want to reset (often all of them are preselected) and press Reset.
3. If you cannot reset the browser, scan your whole PC with an authentic malware removal software.