How to Identify a Browser Hijacker on a Chromebook

Learn to recognise the tell-tale signs of a browser hijacker on your Chromebook and how to restore your browser to normal.

7 min read · Beginner friendly

What is a browser hijacker?

A browser hijacker is a type of unwanted software that changes your browser's settings without your permission. This means that your usual homepage, search engine, or new tab page might be altered to something you don't recognise. Its main goal is to redirect your web traffic, often to display unwanted adverts or to gather data about your browsing habits.

Signs your Chromebook browser has been hijacked

If your browser has been hijacked, you'll likely notice several unusual behaviours. Pay close attention to these signs:

• Redirected searches: When you try to search for something, you're taken to an unfamiliar search engine or a page full of adverts.
• Changed homepage: Your browser opens to a different page than the one you've set as your homepage, or to a page you've never seen before.
• New tab page alterations: Opening a new tab brings up an unfamiliar page, often filled with sponsored links or adverts.
• Unwanted extensions or toolbars: You notice new toolbars or browser extensions that you don't remember installing.
• Excessive pop-up adverts: You're seeing many more pop-up ads than usual, even on websites that normally don't show them.

How to remove a browser hijacker

Removing a browser hijacker from a Chromebook involves a few key steps. Since ChromeOS is a secure system, we'll focus on browser-specific settings and extensions.

1. Check your Chrome extensions:
2. Open Chrome and type chrome://extensions into the address bar, then press Enter.
3. Carefully review the list of installed extensions. If you see anything you don't recognise or remember installing, toggle the switch to the left to disable it, then click the 'Remove' button. Be wary of extensions that claim to offer security or speed-up features, as these are often used by hijackers.
4. Reset your browser settings:
5. In Chrome, click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner, then go to Settings.
6. Scroll down and click Reset settings on the left-hand side.
7. Click on Restore settings to their original defaults, then Reset settings in the pop-up. This will reset your homepage, new tab page, search engine, and disabled extensions.
8. Scan for unwanted software (ChromeOS):
9. While ChromeOS is very secure, it's good practice to ensure no harmful software is present. Since traditional anti-virus isn't needed on ChromeOS, we rely on the built-in security features, such as Verified Boot, which ensures your system hasn't been tampered with.
10. If you suspect deeper issues, consider performing a Powerwash. Go to Settings > Advanced > Reset settings > Powerwash. This will wipe your Chromebook and restore it to factory settings, effectively removing any persistent issues. Remember to back up your data before doing this.

Prevent future browser hijacking

Once your browser is clean, follow these tips to protect yourself from future hijackers:

• Be cautious with downloads: Only download software and extensions from trusted sources, like the Chrome Web Store, and always read reviews.
• Read permissions carefully: When installing an extension, pay attention to the permissions it requests. If an extension for wallpapers asks to 'read and change all your data on the websites you visit', that's a red flag.
• Keep your ChromeOS updated: ChromeOS regularly receives security updates. Make sure your system is always up-to-date by going to Settings > About ChromeOS > Check for updates.
• Use reliable security software (general advice): While ChromeOS has built-in security, on other platforms, using reputable antivirus/anti-malware software is crucial. For ChromeOS, relying on its excellent system architecture and cautious browsing is key.