How to Manually Remove SURFSEE Extension? [ Easy Tutorial ]

SURFSEE Extension: A Detailed Overview

How SURFSEE Extension looks like?

What is the SURFSEE Extension?

The SURFSEE extension is classified as a potentially unwanted program (PUP) and is recognized for its malicious behavior. It masquerades as a legitimate browser extension but functions primarily to hijack browser settings and redirect search results. Users may unknowingly install this extension when downloading free software or through deceptive pop-up ads that suggest installing it.

How Does SURFSEE Work?

1. Hijacking Browser Settings:

   • Once installed, SURFSEE alters the browser's default search engine, homepage, and new tab settings. This means that even if a user attempts to revert these changes, the extension can reapply them.

2. Search Redirection:

   • Instead of allowing users to use their preferred search engines (like Google), SURFSEE redirects search queries to other search engines such as Bing, Yahoo, or lesser-known and potentially unsafe search engines.
   • These redirections often lead users to unfamiliar and sometimes malicious search results.

3. Malicious Search Results:

   • The search results generated through these redirections can include links to malicious websites. These websites might be designed to:
     • Phish for personal information.
     • Install additional malware or PUPs.
     • Display intrusive ads and pop-ups.
     • Trick users into downloading fake software updates or other harmful programs.

4. Ad Injections:

   • SURFSEE may also inject ads into web pages that users visit. These ads can be highly intrusive and are often difficult to distinguish from legitimate content. Clicking on these ads can lead to further malware infections or unwanted software installations.

Potential Risks and Damages

• Data Theft: Personal and sensitive information can be harvested by the malicious websites users are redirected to.
• System Performance: The constant redirections and ads can significantly slow down the browser and overall system performance.
• Further Infections: The malicious search results can lead to the download of additional malware, creating a cascade of infections that can severely damage the system.
• Financial Loss: Users may be tricked into entering credit card details or other financial information on fake sites, leading to potential financial theft.

Signs of Infection

• The browser's default search engine, homepage, or new tab settings have changed without user consent.
• Frequent redirections to unfamiliar search engines or websites.
• An increase in intrusive ads and pop-ups while browsing.
• Sluggish browser performance.

Prevention and Removal

1. Prevention:

   • Be cautious when downloading free software; opt for reputable sources.
   • Avoid clicking on suspicious pop-up ads or download prompts.
   • Regularly update the browser and install security patches.
   • Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software.

2. Removal:

   • Manual Removal:
     1. Uninstall the SURFSEE extension from the browser.
     2. Reset browser settings to default.
     3. Check and remove any unfamiliar programs from the computer.
     4. SURFSEE Removal Tutorial (Youtube Tutorial)
   • Using Anti-Malware Tools:
     • Utilize reputable anti-malware software to perform a full system scan and remove any traces of SURFSEE and other potential threats.

Conclusion

The SURFSEE extension is a malicious browser extension that can cause significant issues for users, including browser hijacking, search redirections to malicious sites, and potential data theft. Being vigilant about the sources of downloads, maintaining updated security software, and knowing how to remove such threats are crucial steps in protecting one's system from such malicious extensions.