MaxSearch – a browser plugin that will redirect you to dangerous sites
MaxSearch is a browser hijacker that changes Internet Explorer default start and search pages to maxfind.com and maxifiles.com domains. The parasite works as an additional web browser toolbar. It can be installed manually or unknowingly through software bundles, fake Flash Player updates, deceptive ads, etc.
By doing so, it can deliver its user ads and collect non-personal browsing details, such as geolocations, viewed websites, device/browser info, IP addresses, etc. Due to its spreading techniques and its functions, it is categorized as a potentially unwanted program (PUP).
| name | MaxSearch |
|---|---|
| Type | PUP, browser hijacker |
| Purpose | Generate traffic to affiliated sites by showing ads and causing sudden redirects |
| Risks | Privacy issues, other PUP installation, malware infections |
| Elimination | You can try to remove this cyber threat manually, but we recommend doing it automatically with a trustworthy anti-malware tool |
| System Health fix | To delete all traces of this browser hijacker from your Registry and other core system settings, use the time-tested FortectIntego computer repair software |
Once executed, MaxSearch browser hijacker creates a directory, drops files in it, and modifies the Windows Registry in order to insert itself as a browser plugin. It can automatically update itself. The parasite decreases Internet security level by showing ads and causing redirects to its affiliated sites.
The program is not malicious itself, but its sponsored sites which you will be redirected to might be. That's why you should remove this infection, and the sooner, the better. You can do that by performing a full system scan with a reliable security tool capable of identifying, locating, and eliminating the threat.
Uninstall from Windows
Uninstall from Windows 10/8:
- Type Control Panel into the Windows search box and open the result.
- Under Programs, select Uninstall a program.
Uninstall from Windows 7/XP:
- Click on Windows Start > Control Panel (Windows XP users should click on Add/Remove Programs).
- In Control Panel, select Programs > Uninstall a program.
Remove the unwanted program:
- In the Programs and Features window, look for any recently installed suspicious entries, select them, and click Uninstall.
- If User Account Control appears, click Yes to confirm, then complete the removal.
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