Malware · medium

How to fixBROWSER_HIJACKER_REDIRECT

Browser Hijacker and Search Engine Redirect

What this error means

BROWSER_HIJACKER_REDIRECT shows up as a medium-severity malware/security fault. This diagnosis detects unauthorized modification of default web browser homepages, search engines, and shortcuts, redirecting users to malicious advertising search portals. It sometimes comes down to adware wrappers bundled during free software package installations. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Use instructions for your exact device and software version. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Open browser settings and reset the search engine and startup pages back to defaults.
  1. Open browser settings and reset the search engine and startup pages back to defaults.
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
02Remove unrecognized extensions from chrome://extensions or edge://extensions.
  1. Remove unrecognized extensions from chrome://extensions or edge://extensions.
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
03Check the properties of browser desktop shortcuts and delete any appended URLs from the 'Target' path.
  1. Check the properties of browser desktop shortcuts and delete any appended URLs from the 'Target' path.
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors

Possible causes

  • Adware wrappers bundled during free software package installations.
  • Malicious extensions installed via third-party downloads.