What is a Virus that Redirects Web Pages? A Comprehensive Guide

If you’ve been experiencing unexpected browser redirects, you might be wondering: “What is a virus that redirects web pages?” You’re not alone. Many users experience this issue, often caused by malware that alters browser behavior. Let’s delve into the reasons behind these redirects and how you can resolve them.

🌐 Browser Redirects: Common Causes

Browser redirects can disrupt your online experience by unexpectedly taking you to different websites. To effectively tackle this issue, it’s crucial to first identify the underlying causes. In the following discussion, we outline all the possible factors that can lead to browser redirects, from viruses specifically designed for this purpose to incorrect configuration settings. Understanding these causes is the key step in resolving such redirects, ensuring a more secure and seamless browsing experience.

1. Browser Hijacker 🦠

This form of malware stealthily modifies browser settings, pushing users to certain web pages, mostly for malicious intents. Often, they can change your homepage, default search engine, or inject pop-up ads.

2. Adware 📢

Annoying yet pervasive, adware is software that automatically displays or downloads advertising material. When browsing, you might encounter unexpected pop-ups or even be redirected to promotional pages or potentially harmful sites.

3. Rogue Browser Extensions 🔌

Extensions can enhance the browser’s functionality, but rogue ones can have the opposite effect. They might redirect you to commercial or malicious websites, often without any indication of their activities.

4. Infected System Files 💾

If malware manages to infect critical system files, it could lead to unpredictable browser behavior, including unwarranted redirects.

5. Manipulated DNS Settings 🔄

Sometimes, the DNS (Domain Name System) settings on your device are tampered with, causing your web requests to be routed to different servers, leading to unexpected destinations.

6. Compromised Router 📡

Rarely, but importantly, cybercriminals can hack into routers, changing DNS settings to redirect web traffic through malicious servers.

7. Session Hijacking 🚫

In this type of attack, unauthorized users can capture or intercept a user’s session to take over or manipulate their web sessions, which could lead to redirections.

8. Websites with Redirect Scripts 🔀

It’s worth noting that some legitimate websites employ redirection scripts for various reasons, such as tracking user behavior, affiliate marketing, or serving regional content. However, they can be misused for sinister purposes.

🕵️‍♂️ Why Do Cybercriminals Use Redirect Viruses?

Redirect viruses, while a nuisance to users, offer multiple advantages to cybercriminals. Delving into their motives can provide better insight into the threats lurking online and how to protect against them.

1. Monetary Gain 💰

For many cybercriminals, it’s all about the money. By pushing users to specific pages, they can amass significant ad revenue or affiliate commissions. Each redirect, click, or interaction could put coins in their virtual pockets.

2. Phishing Attacks 🎣

Redirection often leads unsuspecting users to fake sites, replicas of legitimate ones. Here, users might unwittingly enter personal details, login credentials, or even financial information, handing it straight to the criminals.

3. Malware Distribution 🦠

The end destination of a redirect isn’t always just a website; it could be a trap. Cybercriminals use these redirected sites as platforms to host and spread additional malware, compounding the user’s security issues.

4. Data Harvesting 📊

Beyond immediate gains, some redirect viruses are designed to surveil. They track browsing habits, gather demographic information, and even record keystrokes, amassing data that can be sold or used for targeted scams.

5. Expanding Botnets 🌐

Some sophisticated redirect viruses aim to recruit the infected device into a botnet, a network of compromised devices. These botnets can be employed for various malicious purposes, from DDoS attacks to further spreading malware.

6. Reputation Damage 🚫

For some, the intent isn’t profit but sabotage. By redirecting users from legitimate websites to malicious or scandalous ones, they can tarnish the reputation of organizations or individuals.

7. Cryptocurrency Mining ⛏️

Redirecting users to sites that secretly utilize the user’s computing power to mine cryptocurrency has become a growing trend. This cryptojacking approach offers a financial reward for the perpetrators without direct theft.

🛠️ How to remove browser redirects

If you’re facing unwanted browser redirects, this section will guide you on how to get rid of them. We’ll show you step by step how to check for and delete any viruses that cause redirects. You’ll also learn how to change your browser settings and remove any malicious extensions that might be causing these redirects. Our instructions are easy to follow, aimed at helping you solve this problem quickly and effectively. By the end of this guide, you should be able to browse the internet without any unwanted interruptions.

Uninstall Suspicious Programs 🗑️🖥️

Browser redirects often originate from malicious software inadvertently installed on your system. To tackle this, start by reviewing the programs currently installed on your computer. Prioritize removing any unfamiliar applications, especially those recently added or that appear questionable. Be cautious, as undesirable software can sometimes be masked within legitimate installations.

Windows 7	Windows 8
Click ‘Start’. In the Start menu select ‘Control Panel’. Find and select ‘Programs and Features’ or ‘Uninstall a program’. Select the program. Click ‘Uninstall’.	Press and hold Windows key and hit X key. Select ‘Programs and Features’ from the menu. Select the program. Click ‘Uninstall’.
Windows 10	Mac OS
Press and hold Windows key and hit X key. Select ‘Programs and Features’ from the menu. Select the program. Click ‘Uninstall’.	On the top menu select ‘Go’, then ‘Applications’. Drag an unwanted application to the Trash bin. Right-click on the ‘Trash’ and select ‘Empty Trash’.

Check Installed Extensions 🔌

Understanding which extensions are installed in your browser is crucial to ensure your online security. Malicious or compromised extensions can often be the root of unexpected behavior like browser redirects. Here’s a step-by-step guide for checking installed extensions in different browsers, presented in table format:

Chrome	Edge
Open Chrome. Click on the three vertical dots ⋮ in the upper right corner. Choose ‘More tools’. Select ‘Extensions’. If uncertain about an extension, consider searching its name online for reviews or potential issues.	Open Edge. Click on the three horizontal dots … in the upper right corner. Select ‘Extensions’ Review the list of installed extensions. Remove any that are unfamiliar or seem suspicious. For any unwanted or suspicious extensions, click ‘Remove’.
Firefox	Safari
Open Firefox. Click on the three horizontal lines ☰ in the upper right corner. Choose ‘Add-ons’. Select ‘Extensions’ from the left pane. For each unwanted extension, click ‘Remove’ or ‘Disable’.	Open Safari. Click on the ‘Safari’ text in the upper left corner. Select ‘Preferences’. Navigate to the ‘Extensions’ tab. For any suspicious extensions, uncheck the box to disable or click the ‘Uninstall’ button.

Scan with Antivirus Software 🦠🚫

Use a reputable antivirus or antimalware program to scan your computer. Ensure it’s updated with the latest definitions for maximum efficacy. MalwareBytes is a trusted anti-malware tool with a strong track record. It’s been widely recognized for its efficiency in detecting and eliminating a broad range of threats, from sneaky browser extensions to more aggressive forms of malware. By employing advanced scanning techniques, MalwareBytes digs deep into your system, ensuring no malicious elements go unnoticed. Simply download, install, and run a full scan with MalwareBytes to clear out any lingering threats related to the Searchparrot.world or other potential risks.

1. Download Malwarebytes by clicking on the link below. Save it on your Windows desktop.
   
   

   Malwarebytes Anti-malware
   326462 downloads
   Author: Malwarebytes
   Category: Security tools
   Update: April 15, 2020
   
2. Once the download is done, close all applications and windows on your personal computer. Open a folder in which you saved it. Double-click on the icon that’s named MBsetup.
3. Choose “Personal computer” option and press Install button. Follow the prompts.
4. Once installation is finished, scan your computer. Run a full scan of your computer to detect and remove any browser hijackers and other forms of malware. The scan may take several minutes to complete, depending on the size of your hard drive and the speed of your computer.
5. Remove detected threats. If the scan finds any threats, click Quarantine to remove them. The software will automatically remove the browser hijacker and any associated malware. After the removal process is complete, restart your computer to ensure that any changes made by the hijacker are fully removed.

The following video demonstrates how to remove hijackers, adware and other malware with MalwareBytes.

Reset Browser Settings to Default 🔄

If you suspect that your browser settings have been tampered with, consider resetting them to their default state. Most browsers provide this option in their settings or preferences section.

Chrome	Edge
Open Chrome. Click on the three vertical dots ⋮ in the upper right corner. Navigate to ‘Settings’. Scroll down and click on ‘Advanced’. Find and click on ‘Restore settings to their original defaults’. Confirm the reset.	Open Edge. Click on the three horizontal dots … in the upper right corner. Select ‘Settings’. Navigate to the ‘On startup’ section. Click ‘Reset settings’. Confirm the reset.
Firefox	Safari
Open Firefox. Click on the three horizontal lines ☰ in the upper right corner. Choose ‘Help’ (represented as a “?” icon). Select ‘Troubleshooting Information’. Click on ‘Refresh Firefox’. Confirm the reset.	Open Safari. Click on the ‘Safari’ text in the upper left corner. Select ‘Preferences’. Navigate to the ‘Privacy’ tab. Click ‘Remove All Website Data’. Note: Safari does not have a direct ‘reset’ option. Instead, you’ll need to manually clear history, cache, and cookies.

Clear Browser Cache and Cookies 🍪🗑️

Old or corrupted cache and cookies might lead to unusual browser behavior. Clearing them might help resolve some redirection issues.

Chrome	Edge
Open Chrome. Click on the three vertical dots ⋮ in the upper right corner. Select ‘More tools’ > ‘Clear browsing data’. Choose the time range and check ‘Cookies and other site data’ and ‘Cached images and files’. Click ‘Clear data’.	Open Edge. Click on the three horizontal dots … in the upper right corner. Select ‘History’ > ‘Clear browsing data’. Click on ‘Choose what to clear’. Check ‘Cookies and saved website data’ and ‘Cached data and files’. Click ‘Clear’.
Firefox	Safari
Open Firefox. Click on the three horizontal lines ☰ in the upper right corner. Select ‘Options’ or ‘Preferences’. Navigate to the ‘Privacy & Security’ panel. In the ‘Cookies and Site Data’ section, click ‘Clear Data’. Check ‘Cookies and Site Data’ and ‘Cached Web Content’. Click ‘Clear’.	Open Safari. Click on the ‘Safari’ text in the upper left corner. Select ‘Preferences’. Navigate to the ‘Privacy’ tab. Click ‘Manage Website Data’. Click ‘Remove All’ and then confirm.

Review DNS Settings 🔀

Check if your DNS settings have been altered. Ensure you’re using trusted DNS servers, such as those provided by your ISP or well-known alternatives like Google’s 8.8.8.8.

Windows

Mac

Right-click on the network icon in the system tray and select ‘Open Network & Internet settings’. Click on ‘Change adapter options’. Right-click on your active connection (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and choose ‘Properties’. In the list, find and select ‘Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)’ and click ‘Properties’. To set DNS manually, choose ‘Use the following DNS server addresses’ and enter desired DNS addresses (e.g., Google’s DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4). Click ‘OK’ and restart your connection or computer for the changes to take effect.

Click on the Apple icon in the top left corner and select ‘System Preferences’. Navigate to ‘Network’. Select your active connection (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and click on ‘Advanced’. Go to the ‘DNS’ tab. Click the ‘+’ button below the DNS servers list and add the desired DNS addresses (e.g., Google’s DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4). Click ‘OK’, then ‘Apply’, and consider restarting your connection or computer for the changes to take effect.

Update Your Software 🔄📲

Outdated software can be more susceptible to malware attacks. Regularly update your operating system, browsers, and other software.

Windows

Mac

Click on the Start button and select ‘Settings’ (gear-shaped icon). Choose ‘Update & Security’. Under ‘Windows Update’, click on ‘Check for updates’. If updates are available, click ‘Download’ and follow the on-screen instructions to install. After installation, consider restarting your computer if prompted.

Click on the Apple icon in the top left corner and select ‘System Preferences’. Navigate to ‘Software Update’. If updates are available, you’ll see an ‘Update Now’ button. Click on it to download and install the updates. For macOS Big Sur and later, the software updates appear in ‘System Preferences’ > ‘Software Update’. For earlier macOS versions, they appear in the Mac App Store’s ‘Updates’ tab. After installation, consider restarting your Mac if prompted.

System Restore ⏪

If you’ve recently started experiencing browser redirects, consider restoring your system to a point before the problems began. This can often undo any malicious changes.

Windows

Mac (Time Machine)

Type ‘create a restore point’ in the Windows search bar and select the matching result. In the ‘System Properties’ window, click on the ‘System Restore’ button. Click ‘Next’ and choose a restore point from the list. Note: Choose a restore point from before you began experiencing issues. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your computer. This will not affect your personal files but will remove apps, drivers, and updates installed after the restore point. Once completed, your computer will restart, and the system will be restored to the selected point.

Ensure your Mac is connected to the Time Machine backup drive or make sure you’re on the same network as your backup disk. Restart your Mac. While it’s restarting, hold down the ‘Command’ and ‘R’ keys together until the Apple logo appears. Choose ‘Restore from a Time Machine Backup’ and click ‘Continue’. Select the Time Machine backup disk and the backup you want to restore from, then click ‘Continue’. Note: Choose a backup from before you began experiencing issues. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restoration. Once done, your Mac will restart, and you’ll be returned to the state your Mac was in at the time of that backup.

Router Checkup 📡

Ensuring your router’s security is crucial as it serves as the gateway to all your connected devices. An infected or compromised router can be the source of various online threats, including unwanted browser redirects. Follow the steps below for a basic router checkup:

• Login to Router Settings: Most routers can be accessed via a web browser by entering their IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). You’ll be prompted to enter a username and password. If you haven’t changed these details, the default login credentials are often ‘admin’ for both fields, but it’s essential to check your router’s manual or the manufacturer’s website.
• Change Default Credentials: If you’re still using the default login credentials, it’s crucial to change them. Cybercriminals often target routers with default settings.
• Update Router Firmware: Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix vulnerabilities and improve performance. Check for available updates and apply them. This option is typically found in the ‘System’ or ‘Update’ section of your router’s settings.
• Check Connected Devices: Review the list of devices connected to your network. If you notice any unfamiliar devices, it’s a sign your network might have been breached. Consider disconnecting unknown devices and changing your Wi-Fi password.
• Enable WPA3 Security: Ensure your Wi-Fi is protected with WPA3, the latest security standard. If your router doesn’t support WPA3, at least ensure it’s using WPA2. Avoid WEP as it’s outdated and easily hackable.
• Turn Off Remote Management: Remote management allows you to access your router’s interface from outside your home network. While it might be convenient, it also poses a security risk. It’s best to disable this feature unless you have a specific need.
• Regularly Restart Your Router: Occasionally restarting your router can help clear potential malware from memory. While it’s not a definitive solution, it’s a good preventive measure.
• Consider a Factory Reset: If you suspect your router is severely compromised, doing a factory reset can help. Remember, this will erase all your custom settings, so ensure you have backup configurations or note down essential details.

Seek Expert Assistance 👩‍💻🆘

If you’ve tried the above steps and the issue persists, it might be time to seek help. Consider reaching out to IT professionals or Myantispyware forums that specialize in malware removal and troubleshooting.

🛡️ Prevention Tips

By following these steps, you’ll reduce the risk of encountering redirect viruses and other online threats, ensuring a safer browsing experience.

• 🔒 Always Update Your Software: Ensure all your operating systems, applications, and especially web browsers are up-to-date. Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software.
• 🌐 Use Caution When Clicking on Links: Avoid clicking on suspicious links, especially in emails from unknown senders. This is a common way for malware and redirect viruses to spread.
• 🔎 Install a Reliable Antivirus and Anti-Malware: Use trusted security software to detect and block potential threats. Regularly run scans to ensure your system remains clean.
• 🛍️ Download Wisely: Only download software and apps from reputable sources or official app stores. Third-party sites can host malicious software that looks legitimate.
• 🔥 Enable Firewall: Ensure your device’s firewall is active. This acts as a barrier between your computer and potentially harmful data on the internet.
• 🌍 Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your online traffic, making it harder for cybercriminals to intercept or tamper with your data.
• 🧠 Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and how to recognize them. Awareness is one of the best defenses against cyber threats.
• 🔑 Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Don’t reuse passwords across multiple sites. Use a password manager if necessary to keep track of your passwords.
• ⛔ Block Pop-ups: Enable pop-up blockers in your browsers. Some pop-ups can contain malicious scripts.
• 💡 Regular Backups: Always back up important data. If something goes wrong, having a backup means you won’t lose your important files.

Conclusion

In this guide, ‘What is a Virus that Redirects Web Pages?’, we’ve covered everything you need to know about browser redirects. From understanding their common causes to exploring why cybercriminals use redirect viruses, we’ve provided comprehensive insights. We also explained how to remove browser redirects, giving you practical steps to fix this issue.

The section on prevention tips is especially important, offering strategies to protect yourself from future incidents. Remember, being proactive about your online security is as important as knowing how to react when problems arise.

We hope this guide has been helpful in making your online experience safer and more enjoyable. Stay informed and cautious, and you can greatly reduce the risk of facing unwanted redirects while browsing.