Threat Database Adware SideSearch

SideSearch

By CagedTech in Adware
Published:
Last updated:

Threat Scorecard

Threat Level: 20 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 33
First Seen: July 24, 2009
Last Seen: May 4, 2022
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The detection of SideSearch on your system indicates a potential security threat that requires immediate attention. This report provides an overview of the threat, its operating methods, symptoms of infection, and steps to remove it from your system. It is essential to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage and protect your personal data.

What Is SideSearch?

SideSearch is a type of malware that can compromise the security and integrity of your computer system. While the specific characteristics of SideSearch are not detailed in this report, it is crucial to understand that malware of this nature can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, and disruption of system operations. Malware threats like SideSearch are designed to operate stealthily, making them challenging to detect without proper security tools.

How SideSearch Operates

Malware like SideSearch typically operates by exploiting vulnerabilities in software or manipulating user behavior to gain unauthorized access to a system. Once inside, it can perform a variety of malicious actions, including but not limited to, stealing sensitive information, installing additional malware, or hijacking system resources for malicious purposes. The exact operational methods of SideSearch are not specified, but it is known that such threats can severely impact system performance and user privacy.

Symptoms of Infection

Symptoms of a SideSearch infection can vary but may include unusual system behavior, such as unexpected pop-ups, changes in browser settings, or the installation of unknown programs. You might also notice a significant slowdown in system performance or find that your browser is being redirected to unwanted websites. These symptoms indicate that your system is compromised and that immediate action is necessary to mitigate the threat.

How to Remove SideSearch

To remove SideSearch from your system, follow these steps carefully:

  1. Boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. This will help prevent the malware from loading and give you a cleaner environment to work in.
  2. Download and install a reputable anti-malware tool, such as SpyHunter. Perform a full scan of your system to detect and remove all traces of SideSearch and any other malware that might be present.
  3. Uninstall any suspicious programs that you do not recognize or that were installed without your knowledge. Be cautious and only remove programs that you are sure are malicious.
  4. Reset your web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.) to their default settings. This can help remove any malicious extensions or settings that the malware might have installed.
  5. Reboot your system and perform another full scan with your anti-malware tool to ensure that all threats have been removed. This step is crucial to confirm that your system is clean and secure.

Conclusion

The removal of SideSearch requires a systematic approach to ensure that all components of the malware are eliminated from your system. By following the steps outlined in this report and maintaining vigilance through regular system scans and updates, you can protect your system from future malware threats. Remember, prevention is key, so always be cautious when clicking on links, opening email attachments, or installing software from unknown sources. Keeping your operating system, browsers, and security software up to date is also essential in preventing malware infections.

Aliases

15 security vendors flagged this file as malicious.

Antivirus Vendor Detection
Microsoft BrowserModifier:Win32/SearcherSmart
Symantec Adware.SideSearch
Prevx1 Medium Risk Malware
NOD32 Win32/Adware.BHO.NFS
McAfee potentially unwanted program Adware-Addestination
K7AntiVirus Trojan.Win32.Malware.1
Fortinet Adware/SearchSmart
BitDefender Application.Generic.23657
AVG Generic3.AIJW
a-squared AdWare.Win32.Mysidesearch!IK
Ikarus Trojan.BHO
TrendMicro TROJ_BHO.OG
Prevx1 Malicious Software
Panda Adware/MxLiveMedia
Microsoft Adware:Win32/Mysidesearch

File System Details

SideSearch may create the following file(s):
# File Name MD5 Detections
1. nucrdgutfobgtns.dll 65dafb19cd79bd963d5a178a9be586b5 2
2. sep.dll 53962ad01ed1b98ca682d4338523df28 0
3. cimtvflnzlfzbx.dll a3befdc5d502455a35626ec689ffd18a 0
4. kaakrfarngn.dll 0f3018503b9363c9837e16483eb9b361 0
5. uomdforzjdpft.dll 0fe36571bbfb79a61e94173ec8ac7ab4 0
6. weiqmbzcztfdaipf.dll 2c056e1c385f8a73c1dda9271ec056da 0
7. merkkdpotli.dll 5d3f9e185317be30dc3bd29c2173f094 0
8. vdssphcwri.dll f9e1d307fcd753bb0e4071d571676d61 0
9. npnuykxybpmoy.dll 34d928c9af5acc80d1b824359c43caac 0
10. gside.exe 80e7aaf7f4f1f6145a75b5e1fc34541c 0
11. mysidesearch_sidebar.dll 755aadcc60bc524a9dacbcebab070af8 0
12. kofjewxnjcaamfzoe.dll 3e689fa211898a2ed05b6bdd8fa4f77c 0
More files

Registry Details

SideSearch may create the following registry entry or registry entries:
File name without path
Loader.exe