Search-pet.com Browser Hijacker

Search-pet.com is a browser hijacker and potentially unwanted application (PUA) that disrupts browsing experiences and compromises user privacy. It redirects browser traffic to Bing.com via its platform while collecting user data, which is then used for intrusive ads or shared with third parties.

---

Search-pet.com Threat Overview

Category	Details
Threat Type	Browser Hijacker, Redirect, PUA
Symptoms	Unwanted pop-ups, redirects to Bing.com, altered browser settings
Detection Names	BrowserHijack:Win32/SearchPet, PUA:Win32/SearchHijack
Damage	Privacy invasion, slower browsing speed, data tracking
Distribution Methods	Software bundling, fake software updates, malicious browser extensions
Danger Level	Moderate

---

How Does Search-pet.com Infect Your System?

The primary distribution methods for Search-pet.com include:

• Bundled Software: It often comes as an additional program in free software bundles.
• Malicious Extensions: Available on platforms like the Chrome Web Store or third-party sites such as Softonic.
• Fake Updates: Disguised as necessary updates for legitimate software.

---

What Does Search-pet.com Do?

Once installed, Search-pet.com makes unauthorized changes to browser settings:

1. Redirects Traffic: Forces users to browse through Bing.com via its platform.
2. Tracks Personal Data: Collects IP addresses, search queries, user IDs, and other online identifiers.
3. Slows Browsing: By injecting ads and additional scripts, it degrades system performance.
4. Displays Intrusive Ads: Pop-ups and unwanted advertisements disrupt browsing.
5. Hijacks Browser Settings: Replaces default search engines and new tab pages.

---

Symptoms of Search-pet.com Infection

• Persistent redirects to Bing.com or other rogue search engines.
• Default search engine and new tab page altered without permission.
• Increased number of pop-ups and banner ads.
• Slower system performance during browsing.
• Difficulty in reverting browser settings to default.

---

How to Remove Search-pet.com Safely

Follow these steps to remove Search-pet.com completely:

Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Programs

• Windows:
  1. Open the Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program.
  2. Identify unfamiliar programs and uninstall them.
• Mac:
  1. Open Finder > Applications.
  2. Drag suspicious programs to the Trash and empty it.

Step 2: Remove Malicious Browser Extensions

• Google Chrome:
  • Go to chrome://extensions/.
  • Identify and remove the Search-pet.com extension.
• Firefox:
  • Navigate to Add-ons > Extensions.
  • Remove malicious extensions.

Step 3: Reset Browser Settings

Reset Chrome, Firefox, or Edge to default settings to remove residual changes.

Step 4: Run SpyHunter Anti-Malware

1. Download and install SpyHunter.
2. Perform a full system scan to detect and remove Search-pet.com and other threats.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to quarantine and delete identified malware.

---

Preventive Measures

Avoid Unreliable Sources

Download software only from official websites or trusted platforms. Avoid pirated software and unknown extensions.

Read Installation Prompts Carefully

During installation, choose custom or advanced options and deselect unwanted software.

Keep Software Updated

Regularly update your browser and operating system to patch vulnerabilities.

Use a Reputable Security Tool

Install and maintain a reliable anti-malware solution like SpyHunter to prevent future infections.

Educate Yourself

Be wary of clicking on suspicious ads, links, or email attachments.

---

By following the outlined steps, users can effectively remove the Search-pet.com browser hijacker and protect themselves against similar threats in the future. Regular vigilance and proactive measures are key to maintaining a secure and efficient system.