Remove Pdf2Docs Search browser hijacker

Pdf2Docs Search is classified as a browser hijacker because of its installation methods and its behavior. It’s advertised as a conversion tool that allows you to convert files to and from PDF but that is only a disguise. Pdf2Docs Search behaves like a browser hijacker and makes unwanted changes to the browser’s settings to promote a questionable search engine that inserts sponsored content into search results. It could lead you to highly questionable or even malicious websites, which is why it’s recommended to remove Pdf2Docs Search.

 

 

Pdf2Docs Search is presented as a helpful browser extension that claims to make it easier to convert files to and from the PDF format. However, in reality, it acts more like a browser hijacker, making unauthorized changes to your browser settings and attempting to redirect you to sponsored sites. Specifically, it changes your homepage and your default search engine to pdf2docs.com, affecting all major browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. These changes cannot be reversed unless you first remove Pdf2Docs Search from your computer, which means pdf2docs.com will load every time you launch your browser or do a search.

The homepage set by the hijacker is very basic and primarily promotes the dubious search engine. In addition to a search box, the site features a PDF converter. If you use the search feature or search via your browser’s address bar, you’ll receive results generated by pdf2docs.com. A lot of those results will generally be irrelevant to your original query and could even lead you to potentially harmful websites. Though browser hijackers don’t directly damage your computer, their redirection can expose you to sites that may conceal malware or promote scams.

Moreover, browser hijackers track your browsing activity and collect data such as sites you visit, your searches, and your IP address. This information is often shared with third parties, primarily for advertising purposes. There’s really no benefit to tolerating a browser hijacker, especially since it does not even have useful features.

To prevent such infections in the future, familiarize yourself with how to properly install free software. Browser hijackers generally come bundled with free programs as additional offers, and unless you manually opt out, they are allowed to install alongside the main program. This method, known as software bundling, is a common tactic used by developers of unwanted programs.

How to avoid installing browser hijackers

To avoid installing unwanted junk like adware, browser hijackers, and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) in the future, you need to learn how to properly install free software. These unwanted programs often come bundled with free software and can be installed automatically alongside them. This sneaky method is why so many users find themselves dealing with these infections.

Most free applications come with additional offers, especially when downloaded from unofficial sources. By default, these offers are allowed to install automatically unless you manually prevent them. Unfortunately, many users do not notice these offers because they are hidden. To avoid these unwanted installations, pay close attention when installing free programs. When given the option, always choose Advanced (Custom) settings instead of the suggested Default settings. The Default settings typically hide unwanted offers, allowing them to install without your consent. In contrast, Advanced settings let you review all added offers, enabling you to uncheck those you don’t want. While some offers may appear useful, allowing their installation is usually a bad idea. Legitimate programs do not rely on software bundling for installation, as it’s questionable at best practice. Taking a moment to uncheck boxes during installation is far easier than having to uninstall programs later.

You might also come across a browser hijacker disguised as a helpful extension, as it is in this case. It’s common for such infections to be advertised as beneficial tools on various free software sites, and you may have installed them without realizing it. We recommend doing some research before installing any program to ensure its safety. For example, had you looked up Pdf2Docs Search on Google, you would have found numerous results recommending its removal.

Pdf2Docs Search removal

Since browser hijackers are not considered severe threats, you can manually remove Pdf2Docs Search. While this may require more time and effort, it’s certainly doable. Once the hijacker is removed, you can easily change your browser settings. However, using anti-virus software like WiperSoft to uninstall Pdf2Docs Search would be easier. This program can handle everything for you, including restoring all settings to their original state.