Hijacking of internet explorer and diverting it to any undesired web pages is becoming a common issue. Hijacking of your browser literally means that you have no control on what you surf and what you want to surf. A virus or spyware takes control on your browser (Internet Explorer) and will popup random messages which are at times interesting but however always annoying.
How is a browser hijacked?
- ActiveX Execution: You may come across a website which will force you to install a software or popup a message where you have to hit the “I Agree” or “Yes” button to gain further access. These usually happen with Adult or Porn related websites, it is another strategy used by spammer to keep visitors on their websites, they spread it with the use of “real banner” or “popup advertising” on popular websites.
- Bundled Software: Usually “free software” or “trial version software” comes with additional bundled software which will hijack the browser and divert user’s attention to random websites.
- Virus/Worm/Trojan: There are multiple ways to get infected by the mentioned however one of the fastest was for these malicious codes to spread is through local area network or LAN. Most of the computer systems on a LAN are not secured and this makes it easy for the viruses and worms to spread in large numbers. Some of these take full control of the computer including the browser and others will just steal confidential information from you computer.
How to avoid getting hijacked by Virus / Trojan / Worms
- Install a popup blocker and keep it activated when visiting un-trusted or new websites.
- Avoid installing software or avoid the prompts which ask you to install software to access the website, unless you are sure on what you are doing.
- Avoid installation of free or trial software which come with bundled software which can harm you computer system, if you really need them then install a dual system and you may install them there for operational reasons.
- Use a better browser, browsers such as firefox and opera come with additional security and are extra safe for browsing online.
- Keeping you anti virus up-to-date is one of the commandments of a healthy computer system.
- Install a good firewall system to avoid intrusion by remote / infected computer system on the LAN and online.
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