Bing.com is a legit search engine developed by Microsoft. The program is not related to any sort of viruses. Yet, most potentially unwanted programs such as browser hijackers usually promote this engine. This has raised eyebrows to many who are wondering if Bing.com is a legitimate program.
Browser hijackers infiltrate the system and change your browser configurations. Cybercriminals do this to promote their own search engines for monetary gains. These malicious programs install into the system without the user’s consent. Most of these hijackers tend to track, record, as well as gather information, including the user’s browsing activity. They also present intrusive ads that showcase malicious content.
Why Is My Browser Redirected to Bing.com?
Browser hijackers target popular browsers, including the likes of Explorer, Chrome, Edge, Firefox and more. Once they infiltrate the system, they change the default search engine. They also change the URL for the new tab, as well as the homepage to bing.com. Note that all this gets done without the user’s consent or knowledge. When opening your browser and launching a query, you remain wondering why your browser redirects to bing.com.
Moreover, browser hijackers come with extra objects, such as extensions or apps. This helps prevent the user from returning their browser to its default settings. There are also some browser hijackers that claim to be legitimate search engines, only to redirect user’s search inputs to bing.com.
How to Stop Redirecting to Bing.com?
Now, despite bing.com search engine carrying no threat to the user, the apps that promote the engine can do so. These malicious apps usually generate dubious ads. And they can trigger malware downloads if clicked upon. Most of these ads do not only conceal the underlying content. Rather, they perform redirects to sites that contain malicious content. So, if you click on these intrusive ads, you expose your device to infections. You’re left with high chances of infecting your computer with multiple malwares.
Moreover, the browser hijackers track your online activity. They capture keystrokes and sensitive data. This means your login credentials and sensitive financial platforms are vulnerable. Data such as online banking can also get compromised. This leads to heavy financial loss. The orchestrators of the browser hijackers share the gathered information mostly with third-parties who are cybercriminals. This leads to severe privacy problems, or worse, identity theft.
If you’re experiencing a lot of redirects to bing.com, the chances of a browser hijacker infection are high. You must immediately clean your browser by uninstalling all recently installed extensions and applications. Or else, you will not be able to return it to its default settings.
How to Identify a Browser Hijacker?
Most of the browser hijackers have similar traits, if not the same. They claim to enhance the user’s internet surfing experience. Yet, this is a stunt performed to trick unsuspecting users. This only leaves them at risk of installing the malicious program. What the victims don’t know at first is that browser hijackers have a purpose. They are developed with the sole purpose of generating money for the developers. Such apps will display endless intrusive ads. Also, they will open doors for malware to infiltrate your system.
Browser hijackers are often distributed using the software bundling technique. This method allows stealth installation of third-party software along with regular apps. The orchestrators conceal the PUA within the Express or Recommended installation process. Most users prefer this process as it does not need much user input. What they don’t know is that the developers of browser hijackers have studied this trend and are exposing it.
To avoid browser hijackers, you must apply the following measures while online:
- Download executable files only from official sites or verified software distributors.
- Use a VPN or use your browser’s private mode when visiting sites that are not trustworthy.
- Avoid cracked and pirated software as they often come laced with malware.
- Install a strong anti-malware security tool for real-time protection.
- Keep your browser and operating system updated, so you avoid missing out on important security patches.
Remove Bing.com Browser Hijacker from Windows 10/11
To get rid of bing.com browser hijacker, you must follow the instructions below.
Solution #1: Get Rid of Bing.com Browser Hijacker Apps
- Access the Settings window by simultaneously pressing Windows + I keys.
- In the Settings window, access the Apps category which opens Apps & Features by default.
- Check through the available list of apps and features to find any malicious programs. Uninstall anything you don’t recognize or got installed during the infection. Do the same with anything related to any sort of browser hijacker.
- When done uninstalling, restart the system and begin the next phase.
Solution #2: Use an Anti-malware Tool to Remove the Bing.com Browser Hijacker
Now that you have removed all potential browser hijacking apps, get the next step on. It’s time to sweep the crumbs using a strong anti-malware tool. Download and install a recommended anti-malware security tool. If it doesn’t prompt you to perform a full system scan, maneuver the interface to do so. If there are any malware entities found, select the option to quarantine or remove them.
Solution #3: Get Rid of Bing.com Redirect from the Browser
The best way to remove bing.com redirect is through resetting the browser back to its default settings. This measure will revert all changes made by malicious programs. The best part is that your bookmarks and saved passwords will remain unscathed.
- Access Chrome’s menu by clicking on the 3 dotted icon at the top right corner.
- From the drop-down menu, select Settings.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on Advanced.
- Now, select Reset settings to their original defaults under the Reset and clean up section.
- Confirm the restoration process by clicking on the Reset Settings button.
- Restart the computer and enjoy a safe online browsing experience without any intrusive ads or redirects.
Conclusion
As already established, bing.com is a genuine search engine. It’s commonly used by browser hijackers for redirects. With that said, it is better not to install this search engine in your system. That way, you don’t attract browser hijackers. Moreover, keep all of your system software updated, so you can take advantage of the latest security patches. It is possible to browse securely online, you just need the right tools and knowledge.