Dealing with an unexpected browser hijacker on Chrome can be extremely frustrating, but thankfully, with the right steps, you can get rid of it quickly and safely. In this guide, we will walk you through how to remove a browser hijacker from Chrome, explain what causes it, and show you how to prevent it in the future, all while protecting your personal data.
What Is a Browser Hijacker and How Does It Affect Chrome?
First of all, a browser hijacker is a type of malware that changes your browser’s settings without your permission, and because of this, your default homepage, search engine, and new tab pages may redirect to unwanted websites.
Moreover, browser hijackers often flood Chrome with:
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Unwanted ads and pop-ups
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Fake search engines
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Strange toolbars and extensions
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Slower browsing speeds
Therefore, recognizing these early signs is crucial because a hijacked Chrome browser can also expose you to serious risks such as data theft, malware infections, and privacy invasion.
What Causes a Browser Hijacker Infection on Chrome?
Interestingly, understanding the common causes behind hijackers helps you stay protected because these threats often sneak into Chrome through:
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Downloading freeware or shareware bundled with malicious software
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Clicking deceptive ads or popups
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Installing fake Chrome extensions unknowingly
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Visiting compromised or fake websites
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Ignoring important Chrome and antivirus updates
Thus, being mindful while browsing can prevent 90% of these threats before they even start.
Essential Preparations Before Removing a Browser Hijacker
Before you jump into removing the hijacker, it’s important to take some precautionary steps because doing so ensures that your data remains safe throughout the cleanup process.
Here’s what you should do first:
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Backup all bookmarks and saved passwords
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Disconnect your device from the internet
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Update your antivirus or anti-malware software
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Prepare your Chrome login credentials for re-syncing later
By preparing properly, you will avoid unnecessary headaches down the road while securing your online accounts.
How to Remove a Browser Hijacker from Chrome Step-by-Step
Following a structured removal process makes everything smoother because missing a single step might cause the hijacker to come back.
1. Remove Suspicious Extensions (Chrome Hijacker Removal)
Firstly, Chrome extensions are a major gateway for hijackers, so you should:
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Open Chrome settings and click on “Extensions”
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Carefully examine the list for anything unfamiliar
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Remove or disable suspicious extensions immediately
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Restart Chrome to apply changes
Thus, cleaning extensions is a critical first step toward reclaiming your browser.
2. Reset Chrome Settings to Default
If weird behavior persists after removing extensions, resetting Chrome is highly recommended because it eliminates hidden hijacker settings.
Follow these steps:
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Go to Settings → Advanced → Reset and clean up
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Click “Restore settings to their original defaults”
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Confirm the reset by clicking “Reset settings”
With this, Chrome will be as good as new without affecting your saved passwords and bookmarks.
3. Uninstall Unwanted Programs Linked to Hijackers
Next, many hijackers piggyback with installed software, so it’s vital to:
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On Windows: Open Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall
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On Mac: Go to Applications → Move suspicious apps to Trash
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Remove any unfamiliar or recently installed programs
Therefore, thorough software removal closes another backdoor that hijackers could exploit.
4. Check Chrome Shortcut for Strange URLs
Moreover, hijackers sometimes modify Chrome shortcuts, so checking this is essential:
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Right-click the Chrome shortcut on your desktop
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Select “Properties” → Look at the “Target” field
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If you see a strange URL after “chrome.exe”, delete it
Thus, cleaning shortcuts ensures that Chrome opens normally every time.
5. Clear Browsing Data to Remove Hijacker Residues
Importantly, clearing Chrome’s cache, cookies, and browsing history helps erase any lingering hijacker traces.
Here’s how:
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Open Settings → Privacy and security → Clear browsing data
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Select “All time” as the range
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Check cookies, cached images, and browsing history
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Click “Clear data”
By doing this, Chrome becomes cleaner, faster, and safer.
6. Scan Your Device Using Malware Removal Tools
Finally, scanning your entire system ensures you eliminate every threat because browser hijackers often come with hidden malware.
Recommended tools include:
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Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
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AdwCleaner
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HitmanPro
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Norton Power Eraser
Therefore, running a deep scan is absolutely critical for total security.
Post-Removal Actions: Securing Chrome Again
Now that the hijacker is gone, it’s time to reinforce your browser because proactive measures help prevent future infections.
Here’s what you must do:
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Update Chrome to its latest version
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Only reinstall trusted extensions
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Use a secure password manager
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Enable Chrome’s Enhanced Safe Browsing feature
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Re-sync your Chrome profile carefully
By taking these steps, you’ll make Chrome almost bulletproof against future hijacks.
How to Prevent Browser Hijackers from Infecting Chrome
Prevention is better than cure, so staying alert online saves you from endless troubles.
Always follow these habits:
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Download apps only from verified sources
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Use custom installation settings to avoid bundled software
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Install reliable adblockers like uBlock Origin
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Keep Chrome and all security software updated
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Be skeptical about clicking unknown links or ads
Because proactive defense is your best long-term strategy.
Recommended Tools for Keeping Chrome Clean
Using reputable security tools greatly increases your protection level, so here are the top picks:
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Malwarebytes (real-time protection)
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AdwCleaner (quick browser cleaning)
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HitmanPro (cloud-based malware detection)
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Norton Power Eraser (aggressive removal)
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Chrome Cleanup Tool (Google’s built-in cleaner)
Thus, arming yourself with these tools ensures your browsing experience remains safe and smooth.
Also Read: How to See Hidden Files on Windows 11 Quickly and Easily!
FAQs: How to Remove a Browser Hijacker from Chrome
What causes a browser hijacker to infect Chrome?
Because many people download free programs or click suspicious ads without reading the fine print, browser hijackers easily sneak into Chrome.
Can resetting Chrome completely remove a hijacker?
Absolutely yes, because resetting Chrome removes all custom settings, rogue extensions, and redirects associated with the hijacker.
Are free antivirus programs enough to stop hijackers?
While free antivirus programs offer basic protection, using paid or premium security solutions offers much stronger defenses because hijackers often use sophisticated evasion techniques.
What if the browser hijacker comes back after removal?
If the hijacker returns, it’s likely that hidden malware remains on your device, so you must perform a full system malware scan and reinstall Chrome completely if necessary.
Should I change my passwords after a hijacking?
Definitely yes, because hijackers may steal your login information, so changing all critical passwords (emails, bank accounts, social media) ensures your accounts stay safe.
How can I recognize fake Chrome extensions?
You should always check extension reviews, verify the publisher, and avoid extensions with very few installs because fake extensions are a favorite tactic used by hijackers.
