The internet is full of uncalled-for dangers that you can run into at any point in time. Browser-based malware is one of the leading problems here, making browser hijacking a prominent method to inject malware into unsuspecting users’ computers.
In this article, we’re talking about Findquide, what it is, what it does and everything else you need to know.
Also read: What is GetSearchRedirecting? Is it a virus?
Findquide explained
Findquide has been classified as a fake search engine that’s often tied up with browser hijacking malware. Browser hijackers are malware that can take over your internet browser and control your surfing preferences, including but not limited to changing the default search engine.
While most browser malware target Chrome because of its popularity, other browsers, especially ones built on the Chromium engine are also vulnerable to such attacks.
The main objective of such programs is to infiltrate your PC and change your browser settings in order to view third-party content, especially ads and redirects that can lead to further, more serious infections.
Browser hijackers are often bundled with free or pirated programs readily available on a number of shady websites. If you’re downloading torrents or paid software for free, there’s a very good chance that there’s some sort of virus or malware attached to the program.
How to remove Findquide from your browser?
Here are six solutions you can try to remove the fake search engine and its accompanying malware from your browser.
Run an antivirus scan
Usually, running an antivirus scan will remove most if not all malware on your PC. Here’s how you can run a full scan on your PC using Windows Security.
Step 1: Press the Windows key and search for Windows Security. Click the corresponding search result.
Step 2: Click Virus & threat protection.
Step 3: Click Scan options.
Step 4: Select Full scan and click Scan now to start scanning your PC for malware.
Alternatively, you can also use a third-party antivirus or antimalware like Malwarebytes to scan your PC and remove any suspicious software.
Check your extensions
Shady extensions are one of the most popular infection vectors for browser-hijacking malware. If you’ve recently installed any new extensions, they may be causing this issue.
If you’re on Chrome head over to chrome://extensions/ and try disabling any shady extensions one by one until you get your browser working again.
You can then remove the malicious browser extension to get rid of any traces of Findquide on your PC.
Use Chrome to scan for malware
Chrome has an inbuilt malware scanner that is rather effective at rooting out browser-hijacking malware. Follow these steps to run a scan.
Step 1: Head over to chrome://settings/reset.Click on Clean unwanted Software.
Step 2: Click the Find button and wait for Chrome to automatically find out and remove unwanted apps/software that might be causing this issue.
Now restart your PC and you should be good to go.
Reset your browser
Resetting your browser can also help get rid of any issues you’re facing.
Step 1: Head over to chrome://settings/reset. Click on Restore settings to their original defaults.
Step 2: Chrome will show you a warning prompt. Click on Reset Settings, and your browser will reset to default settings.
This should resolve any critical error issues you’re facing.
Remove the program in safe mode
If you’ve been infected, chances are the infectious program will show up in your apps and programs list in Windows settings. To safely remove it, boot your PC into safe mode and remove the program.
Step 1: Hold down the power button for about ten seconds to power off your PC.
Step 2: Press the power button again to boot your PC.
Step 3: As soon as you see the PC manufacturer’s logo, press and hold the power button for ten seconds.
Step 4: When your PC reboots, click on Troubleshoot.
Step 5: Head over to Advanced Options.
Step 5: Select Startup Settings.
After this, select Safe Mode with Networking and wait for your computer to finish booting. Once in the safe mode, open the task manager, right-click the malware’s process and select the Show file location option. This will take you to the folder where the malware’s files are stored. You can delete them from here and get rid of the malware for good.
Repair your system
If nothing else works, the best way to get rid of the virus is by simply reinstalling or repairing your OS.
The Windows Media Creation tool is a great way to install Windows and repair the OS. Using this, you can perform a clean installation or repair your OS without affecting your data.
You can download the Media Creation Tool here
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