Smartbase browser hijacker (virus) - Free Guide
Smartbase browser hijacker Removal Guide
What is Smartbase browser hijacker?
Smartbase is a shady extension that collects browsing-related information
Browser hijackers can put user privacy and security at risk
Smartbase is a bogus browser extension that changes the main settings of the browser, like the homepage, new tab address, and search engine. Users are forced to browse only through selected channels which raises many user privacy and security concerns.
Many browser hijackers add their own search engines that can lead to misinformation or even dangerous pages. However, this one replaces the default search engine with Bing which is well-known. Even though it might not be dangerous, it is still a huge inconvenience.
Most of the time, hijackers are created to collect sensitive information or generate revenue from pay-per-click advertising. Browser plugins can also cause redirects to advertisements. Unfortunately, crooks may use rogue advertising networks[1] that lead to scam sites.
NAME | Smartbase |
TYPE | Browser hijacker; potentially unwanted program |
SYMPTOMS | The main settings of the browser get changed, like the homepage, new tab address, and search engine |
DISTRIBUTION | Shady websites, deceptive ads, software bundling |
DANGERS | The extension may lead to dangerous websites; display misinformation, and inaccurate search results; track browsing, and collect data |
ELIMINATION | Remove the extension by going to your browser settings |
FURTHER STEPS | Use FortectIntego to fix any remaining damage and optimize the machine |
Distribution methods
Very often browser hijackers are spread through fake download pages. Crooks create deceptive sites that convince people they are downloading one thing when it is actually not what they think. To avoid such sites, do not click on random links and ads even if they seem to be promoting legitimate products and services.
Use legitimate streaming platforms instead of illegal streaming websites because they are unregulated. They can also display fake “Download” and “Play” buttons that lead to bogus download sites. Netflix or Hulu require only a small monthly subscription fee and users are able to consume as much content as they want.
It is best to use official web stores whenever you want to add new plugins. Apps that get listed on digital marketplaces have to go through an extensive review process. However, you should still do your research – read the reviews, look at the rating, and the number of users. You should choose apps that have plenty of positive feedback and thousands of users.
Use official sources when downloading add-ons and other software
How to remove an extension?
You can remove browser add-ons by going to your settings. Find the list of extensions installed in your browser and remove the Smartbase. Follow the guide below for instructions:
How to prevent from getting browser hijacker
Access your website securely from any location
When you work on the domain, site, blog, or different project that requires constant management, content creation, or coding, you may need to connect to the server and content management service more often. The best solution for creating a tighter network could be a dedicated/fixed IP address.
If you make your IP address static and set to your device, you can connect to the CMS from any location and do not create any additional issues for the server or network manager that needs to monitor connections and activities. VPN software providers like Private Internet Access can help you with such settings and offer the option to control the online reputation and manage projects easily from any part of the world.
Recover files after data-affecting malware attacks
While much of the data can be accidentally deleted due to various reasons, malware is one of the main culprits that can cause loss of pictures, documents, videos, and other important files. More serious malware infections lead to significant data loss when your documents, system files, and images get encrypted. In particular, ransomware is is a type of malware that focuses on such functions, so your files become useless without an ability to access them.
Even though there is little to no possibility to recover after file-locking threats, some applications have features for data recovery in the system. In some cases, Data Recovery Pro can also help to recover at least some portion of your data after data-locking virus infection or general cyber infection.
- ^ Zeljka Zorz. How does a rogue ad network function?. Helpnetsecurity. IT Insights.
- ^ Chris Hoffman. PUPs Explained: What is a “Potentially Unwanted Program”?. Howtogeek. Technology Magazine.
- ^ Tim Fisher. What Is Freeware?. Lifewire. Internet, Networking and Security Blog.