Safe Finder virus: what it is and how to remove it

From our report of Jan 2021 · outdated details corrected in October 2026

Safe Finder is the application classified as a browser hijacker because it focuses on altering search results and affecting the time on the machine

Safe Finder virus is a browser hijacker designed by Linkury which specializes in the ad-tech market.

This dubious application has been accused of stealthy infiltration and unapproved changes in the web browser's settings. Interfering people's web browsing activities since 2015, it keeps emerging on both Mac and Windows operating systems in the form of a browser-based plug-in.

According to researchers, as well as Reddit users, the virus is most frequently spread via adware-type applications, such as GeneralCache, Tituricsec, BasicDesktop MacAppsHD, and akamaihd.com redirects. Anyway, if it successfully settles down on Google Chrome, Safari, Microsoft Edge, or Mozilla Firefox, it replaces the web browser's start page, search engine, new tab, and other settings, which redirect users to sponsored Yahoo search and pushes into visiting doubtful third-party websites.

The hijacker was found to be used for the distribution of Advanced Mac Cleaner, and there is no doubt that its claims to be safe and secure are bogus. In contrast, using this search people risk being exposed to potentially dangerous websites or malware download sites.

Once installed on the browser, SafeFinder hijacks changes to the default search engine, the start page, and the new tab page. As a result, it fills each of the web browsers with bothersome and sometimes even malicious advertisements and interrupts users' browsing sessions in other ways.

Some variations of this cyber infection are known as:

It seems that the virus has mostly been noticed on Mac OS when compared to Windows OS. Thus, if you are the owner of Apple products, you should be aware of the persistent Mac version.

As we have noticed, it is closely related to the Advanced Mac Cleaner which is known as another questionable tool that should not be installed on the device. Unfortunately, this cyber infection might sneak inside the computer no matter if you want it or not.

Though it doesn't matter whether you are a Mac or Windows user, or what version of the hijacker attacked your device, you should focus on the same task - Safe Finder removal. The quickest way to get rid of this PUP is to run a full system scan with a reliable anti-malware program. will also help you find corrupted files and restore the PC's peak performance.

• search.safefinder.biz;
• search.safefinder.info;
• isearch.safefinder.net;
• search.safefinder.com;
• search.safefinderformac.com

From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since

Adload malware will set Safe Finder as your search tool on your Mac

Security researchers have been extremely concerned about adware that has been targeting macOS for the past few years.

Multiple users reported that their Safari, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or another web browser had been hijacked by a suspicious extension that uses a green/blue magnifying glass icon. Another very distinct feature of the hijack is that users' homepage and new tab address are set to the Safe Finder search engine.

While the hijack might not seem like a serious threat, the Adload apps, such as SectionBrowser, ArchimedesLookup, SearchMainInfo, and CreativeSearch, are often installed with elevated permissions on the browser (for that, malicious .plist files, new profiles, and other persistence mechanisms are used). As a result, users cannot delete the installed extensions, hence they cannot uninstall Safe Finder from Mac, either.

Besides, the extension abuses the built-in AppleScript in order to set itself to read sensitive data that is entered via the hijacked web browser. This means that, when you are logging in to your online banking or Facebook, your credentials can be leaked and delivered to cybercriminals. Hence, proper threat removal becomes an important task for Mac users.

From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since

Things to expect after choosing to keep the Safe Finder

The first thing you must remember is that the program imitates a search engine, but works in a deceptive manner.

It claims that it is powered by Yahoo, but don't think that the search engine is safe because of that! This rogue app tries to camouflage its dubious reputation behind the name of a reputable search website .

Being a browser hijacker, this virus alters its search outcomes by adding hideous hyperlinks causing redirects to third-party web pages. That means that whenever you attempt to search for something online via this bogus search engine, random and unexpected redirect issues might send you to websites that you did not plan to visit.

Beware that each destination directed by Safe Finder can hardly be checked by developers of this app as their only aim is to earn money. We believe that this is yet another reason to remove the app from the system.

Websites that you might be rerouted to belong to the affiliates of this application, and, while some of them might be safe, others can be very dangerous. In some cases, you might end up on a phishing site - a lookalike page (such as Facebook, Netflix accounts, etc.). Once you enter your credentials, you will merely provide the username and password of your account directly to cybercrooks.

SafeFinder can also bring you to the website that promotes the download and installation of bogus software. Typically, the promotion is done unfairly - fake ads inside the browser display various error messages or virus alerts. These sites are nothing but a scam and only try to trick users into either calling bogus tech support or making users download useless software

If you agree to download the fraudulent anti-malware software (also: speed-up software, driver updater, system optimizer, registry cleaner, etc.), it might bring you into more trouble. The program usually performs several scans and allegedly finds multiple issues. It turns out, all these issues are fake as well, and you will be prompted to buy the full version of the app, which is not cheap in most cases.

These types of applications are called Scareware as they try to scare users that their machine is in trouble in order to earn some money (in other words - it's a scam). Unfortunately, many people who lack technical knowledge will be willing to pay $19.99 just because they want to keep their machine safe. This way, Scareware production became a multi-million dollar business worldwide. Examples of scareware programs include:

Any of these programs, and many others, may be offered to you in one way or another. Ignore these deceptive apps!

• Dr. Clean Pro 2018
• Advanced Identity Protector
• DriverToolkit
• Universal PC Mechanic
• Mac Optimizer

From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since

Countering the hijacker. What you need to know about it

As you can see, Safe Finder is not that safe at all.

In fact, it is not a popular search site, so many PC users get surprised when they see this web page instead of their regular homepage. This browser hijacker tends to occupy users' computers in a silent way, pretending to be a "recommended program " next to the legitimate free programs.

Software that holds additional apps is called "bundled software." Beware of such software bundles as in most cases they are used to spread potentially unwanted apps (browser hijackers, adware, browser extensions, add-ons, and plug-ins). The key to keeping your PC secured from such spyware programs is the correct installation of new programs.

When installing a program that is free, make sure you investigate the website that provides a download link to the software that you wish to download. Make sure it is legitimate and safe. Do not rush through the installation process by continuously clicking "Next," "Agree," and finally "Finish."

Besides, we highly recommend reading each statement and investigate the Terms of Use document. If you find any hints about the promotion of third-party software, be careful! Once you reach the stage where setup suggests choosing installation settings, opt for the "Advanced/Custom" mode.

These settings provide an additional software window that offers a list of suggestions to install optional free apps. Make sure you deselect these suggestions. You should install new programs in such a way all the time. However, if Safe Finder PUP has already invaded your Mac or Windows operating system, keep on reading this article to learn how to banish it from your computer.

From our report of Jan 2021 · outdated details corrected in October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Safe Finder virus on Mac (FAQ)

Question.

I have removed "Advanced Mac Cleaner" from the Macbook Pro. However, Safe Finder still appears on my browser. No matter what I do, I cannot delete it from Chrome. What do I need to do?

Answer. This PUP spreads around as a browser extension. Thus, you need to open the list of Google Chrome extensions and remove it from there.

Question. Safe Finder virus hijacked my Safari browser. How can I remove it?

Answer. It will detect and eliminate this adware/browser hijacker from the device. Additionally, you can uninstall this browser extension: Open "Preferences" and go to "Extensions," and uninstall the add-on.

Then, you need to reset Safari settings. Safari reset instructions are presented below.

Question. I was falsely informed about the necessity to update my browser software. As a result, I found the Safe Finder extension installed on Safari.

It loads whenever I launch Safari. I have no intention of using it, but I cannot remove it too. I've tried to uninstall it, but it showed up again. Help me!

Answer. The so-called Safari Finder virus might be tricky to remove. Uninstalling browser extensions only may not be effective. You should also investigate the computer's system and look for the suspicious application installed on the computer as well.

You can find illustrated manual instructions at the end of the article. However, you can remove this virus automatically with a help reputable security tool.

Question. How can I permanently remove Safe Finder from Mac? These pop-ups offering Advanced Mac Cleaner are getting more and more aggressive.

Answer. The best way to terminate the adware is to run a full system scan with an anti-malware/anti-spyware program. No matter which method you choose, don't forget that removal requires three steps: 1) get rid of the threat from Mac; 2) uninstall the browser extension from your browsers; 3) reset your browser.

From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since

More from our earlier report on Safe Finder virus

• Start page and default search engine are altered, redirects lead to suspicious and potentially dangerous websites, overall increased amount of ads on all visited websites, unknown browser extensions installed without permission, etc.
• The app spies on its users, can redirect them to infected websites, install other adware and similar PUPs
• In case your system remains damaged after you eliminate all PUPs and malware, you can attempt to repair issues with tools such as
• Our vision is to become the leading provider of simple, smart web solutions and complementary applications dedicated to improving browsing efficiency and simplicity using existing technologies and user interfaces.

From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since

Bypassing the risks of the Mac virus

Most victims dealing with Safe Finder are Mac users.

Most of them have reported a close relation between this PUP and Advanced Mac Cleaner. We highly recommend uninstalling this app because it is just a misleading optimizer that reports thousands of computer errors.

Besides, if you are not attentive enough while installing this app, you can end up with a hijack. To bypass the risk of getting your PC accidentally infected, follow these guidelines:

• Be attentive enough while installing freeware on your computer.
• Do not use a search website that has become your browser homepage without your knowledge. It is 99% of probability that your computer was hijacked by a PUP;
• Do not click on suspicious pop-up ads or banners that continuously appear on your screen. The appearance of super intrusive ads indicates that computers might have been infected with spyware or malware, too.
• Install reliable anti-spyware software to keep your computer secured. Such a program continuously scans the system and searches for dangerous apps that may have been installed without your consent. Thus, these tools will help you disable Safe Finder on Mac and Windows as well.

From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since

The reports on Reddit and other forums keep emerging accusing third-party applications of distributing the adware.

Although it is a direct download website where developers represent it as a web browser's helper object that is going to ensure safer browsing activities, in reality, it does not perform the promised activities.

The main sign indicating that it cannot be trusted is stealthy infiltration. According to people, they found the virus onto the system without installing it directly. It turns out that it's typically spread as a preselected installer of free apps. Therefore, people should download the following apps extremely carefully:

The list is not definite. Therefore, every time you choose to download freeware, select Advanced in installation, and carefully check for offers to install additional components. If you get a proposal for this adware, remove the checkmark near the program or a site before proceeding with the freeware installation.

• ProgressTrend
• GlobalQuestSearch
• DiscoverResults
• MapperObject
• InetWebSearch
• IdeaReference
• SearchLetters
• InterfaceSample
• GeneralCache
• Tituricsec
• BasicDesktop
• MacAppsHD
• TypicalFraction
• Fast Form Finder
• Advanced Mac Cleaner, etc.

From our report of Jan 2021 · outdated details corrected in October 2026

Safe Finder elimination guide

The virus can be terminated manually and automatically.

Our team of computer experts has prepared comprehensive and detailed threat removal instructions. We strongly recommend scanning your system with a reputable anti-spyware afterward; it might find additional programs that should not be kept installed on your PC.

With anti-spyware software, you can also easily remove this PC intruder automatically. Choose whatever removal method works best for you and remove the virus without delay! Otherwise, you can put yourself at the risk of losing your personal information, being redirected to an infected website.

If you pick the manual removal, at least let us help you by guiding you through this journey so the intruder is properly eliminated. These step-by-step instructions are meant for Windows OS users. While the ones afterward are for Mac devices.

Instructions for Windows 10/8 machines:

For Windows 10 or 11 users, proceed with the following instructions:

To remove an unwanted application from your Mac, please follow these guidelines:

To fully remove an unwanted app, you need to access Application Support, LaunchAgents, and LaunchDaemons folders and delete relevant files:

• Enter Control Panel into Windows search box and hit Enter or click on the search result.
• Under Programs, select Uninstall a program.
• From the list, find the entry of the suspicious program.
• Right-click on the application and select Uninstall.
• If User Account Control shows up, click Yes.
• Wait till the uninstallation process is complete and click OK.
• Click on Windows Start, then go to Settings > Apps to view installed programs.
• In Control Panel, select Programs > Uninstall a program.
• Pick the unwanted application by clicking on it once.
• At the top, click Uninstall/Change.
• In the confirmation prompt, pick Yes.
• Click OK once the removal process is finished.
• From the menu bar, select Go > Applications.
• In the Applications folder, look for all related entries.
• Click on the app and drag it to Trash (or right-click and pick Move to Trash)
• Select Go > Go to Folder.
• Enter /Library/Application Support and click Go or press Enter.
• In the Application Support folder, look for any dubious entries and then delete them.
• Now enter /Library/LaunchAgents and /Library/LaunchDaemons folders the same way and terminate all the related .plist files.