Search Protect (or (or Search Protect by Conduit) is a browser hijacker that often gets installed alongside other software without the user’s knowledge. It modifies browser settings, changes the default search engine, and can display unwanted ads. Removing Search Protect and preventing its future installation is essential for maintaining a secure and efficient browsing experience.
How to Remove Search Protect
Step 1: Uninstall Search Protect from Your Computer
- Windows Users:
- Abra o Painel de Controle.
- Select “Programs and Features.”
- Look for “Search Protect” or any suspicious programs.
- Click on the program and select “Uninstall.”
- Mac Users:
- Open Finder and go to the “Applications” folder.
- Locate “Search Protect” or any unfamiliar applications.
- Drag the application to the Trash.
- Empty the Trash to remove the application completely.
Step 2: Remove Search Protect from Your Browser
Google Chrome
- Abra o Chrome e clique nos três pontos no canto superior direito.
- Vá para "Configurações".
- Role a tela para baixo e clique em "Advanced" (Avançado).
- Under “Reset and clean up,” click on “Restore settings to their original defaults.”
- Confirme clicando em "Redefinir configurações".
Mozilla Firefox
- Open Firefox and click on the three horizontal lines in the upper-right corner.
- Select “Help” and then “Troubleshooting Information.”
- Clique em "Atualizar Firefox".
- Confirm the action by clicking “Refresh Firefox” again.
Microsoft Edge
- Abra o Edge e clique nos três pontos no canto superior direito.
- Selecione "Configurações".
- Scroll down and click on “Reset settings.”
- Choose “Restore settings to their default values.”
- Confirme clicando em "Reset".
Step 3: Scan for Malware
- Download and install a reputable anti-malware program.
- Run a full system scan to detect and remove any remaining traces of Search Protect.
- Follow the prompts to quarantine or delete any detected threats.
Preventing Future Installations of Search Protect
Seja cauteloso com os downloads
- Only download software from reputable sources.
- Avoid downloading bundled software or freeware from unknown websites.
Pay Attention During Installation
- Opt for “Custom” or “Advanced” installation settings.
- Uncheck any boxes that suggest installing additional programs or changing your browser settings.
Use Browser Extensions and Security Software
- Install reputable browser extensions that block ads and pop-ups.
- Keep your anti-virus and anti-malware software up to date.
- Use a secure web browser that offers additional protection against malicious software.
Regularly Update Your Software
- Ensure your operating system, browser, and security software are always up to date.
- Enable automatic updates to reduce the risk of vulnerabilities being exploited.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove Search Protect from your system and significantly reduce the chances of it being installed again in the future.