Hi.ru Search

Hi.ru is a dubious Web portal and search engine that is likely being promoted via an intrusive browser hijacker. Users could start seeing the page suddenly, as well as being redirected to it after allowing such a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) to be installed on their computers. After all, most PUPs are being distributed via questionable methods designed specifically to hide their installation from the user's attention. One of the more popular tactics is known as software bundling, and it consists of adding one or more items, preselected for installation, that only will be visible if the users look under the 'Custom' or 'Advanced' settings specifically.

Browser hijackers, in particular, are equipped with the necessary functions that allow them to assume control over the user's Web browsers. By changing certain settings (homepage, new tab page, default search engine, etc.), the browser hijacker can begin generating artificial traffic toward the sponsored page. As for hi.ru, it appears to be a highly suspicious search engine.

Trying to initiate a search via the associated field on the page triggers a warning that the connection is not secure. The Chrome browser also will warn users that the information they are about to submit is not secure and could be visible to others. Ultimately, the site failed to produce any search results, even when the warnings were ignored.

Users should be careful when using such unproven or unfamiliar services. More importantly, any PUPs present on their computers or devices should be removed as soon as possible. These annoying applications are notorious for possessing data-collection capabilities that may include spying on users' browsing activities, gathering numerous device details, or trying to extract sensitive information from browsers' autofill data.