Smash Browser

Threat Scorecard

Ranking: 175
Threat Level: 50 % (Medium)
Infected Computers: 34,879
First Seen: February 9, 2023
Last Seen: September 25, 2023
OS(es) Affected: Windows

Browser hijackers are malicious programs that manipulate the settings of a user's web browser without their consent, often resulting in a compromised browsing experience. One such hijacker, known as Smash Browser, has gained notoriety for its intrusive tactics and ability to infiltrate unsuspecting systems.

Smash Browser typically enters a target system through deceptive methods, such as bundling with freeware or shareware downloads. When users install seemingly harmless software, they unknowingly give permission for Smash Browser to be installed alongside it. This stealthy installation process allows the hijacker to bypass the user's awareness and gain control over the browser.

Once Smash Browser infiltrates a browser, it makes significant changes to the default settings. It may alter the homepage, new tab page, and default search engine to redirect users to unwanted websites. Additionally, Smash Browser can install unwanted extensions and suspicious programs without the user's consent, further compromising the browsing experience.

Why Should You Remove Smash Browser?

Smash Browser poses several risks to users:

  1. It exposes them to an onslaught of unwanted advertisements, pop-ups, and sponsored links, affecting their overall browsing performance.
  2. The hijacker may collect browsing data, including search queries and visited websites, which could compromise user privacy and lead to targeted advertising or other malicious activities.
  3. Smash Browser might open doors for the installation of other adware or malware programs, intensifying the threats to the system's security.

To remove Smash Browser, users need to take immediate action. They should uninstall the unwanted program from their system through the control panel or use reputable antivirus software to detect and eliminate the hijacker. Additionally, it is crucial to restore the browser settings to their original defaults to remove any lingering traces of Smash Browser. To avoid similar threats in the future, users should exercise caution during the installation process, avoiding suspicious programs and refraining from downloading browser extensions from untrusted sources. Regularly updating antivirus software and conducting system scans will help detect and remove potential malware threats.

Manual Browser Hijacker Removal

Automatic hijacker removal with an antimalware tool is the most efficient option, but you can reset your browser's settings to their original defaults, too. Remember that restoring your browser's settings to default will also remove your customizations. If that does not deter you, you can do that by following these steps:

Chrome

  1. Open Chrome and press Alt+F.
  2. On the drop-down menu, click the Settings button.
  3. Scroll down and select Advanced.
  4. Scroll down again and click Restore settings to their original defaults.
  5. Click Reset settings to complete the restoration process.

Firefox

  1. Open Firefox and click the three-line menu icon in the top right corner.
  2. From the drop-down list, choose Options.
  3. Click General on the left.
  4. Scroll down to Firefox Updates and locate the Firefox Default button.
  5. Click the Firefox Default button.

Edge

  1. Open Edge and press Alt+F.
  2. From the drop-down menu, select the Settings gear icon.
  3. On the left side menu, click Reset settings.
  4. Click Restore settings.
  5. Click Reset to complete the reset process.

Directories

Smash Browser may create the following directory or directories:

%LOCALAPPDATA%\ServiceApp

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