Have you noticed your browser suddenly redirecting you to Xsendefender.pro without warning? If so, you may be dealing with a browser hijacker, a type of unwanted software that manipulates your browser’s behavior for malicious or deceptive purposes. Xsendefender.pro is a rogue site that tricks users into interacting with pop-ups, redirects, and potentially dangerous links. While it may appear like a legitimate search engine or harmless website, its actions behind the scenes are far from benign.
Xsendefender.pro Threat Overview
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Threat Name | Xsendefender.pro |
Type | Browser Hijacker, Redirect, Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA) |
Detection Names | Avast: URL:Mal, Malwarebytes: Trojan.BrowserHijacker, ESET: JS/Redirector |
Symptoms | Browser redirects, intrusive ads, pop-ups, new tabs opening automatically |
Damage | Privacy invasion, slow performance, potential exposure to scams/malware |
Distribution Methods | Bundled freeware, deceptive ads, fake downloads, malicious websites |
Associated Emails | None reported |
Danger Level | Moderate to High |
This article provides a thorough overview of the Xsendefender.pro threat, highlighting its behavior, potential damage, and common signs of infection. Understanding the core characteristics of this threat is the first step to identifying and eventually removing it from your device.
What Is Xsendefender.pro?
Xsendefender.pro is a Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA) and browser hijacker that redirects users to suspicious web pages and forces interactions with ads, fake security alerts, or even scam pages. It’s designed to generate revenue through affiliate marketing, pay-per-click ads, and traffic manipulation—often at the expense of your privacy and user experience.
The redirects often occur because a malicious browser extension or bundled program has been installed—often without the user realizing it. These hijackers are typically embedded in deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers, or even compromised browser extensions.
How Does Xsendefender.pro Affect Your Device?
Once your device is compromised, the malicious software linked to Xsendefender.pro can take over key browser functions. Your default search engine, homepage, or new tab page may be replaced or redirected through suspicious servers. Users often notice:
- Continuous pop-up advertisements.
- Redirection to strange or unsafe websites.
- Unusual browser extensions that cannot be easily removed.
- Overall sluggish browser performance.
These changes can severely disrupt normal browsing and may even lead to further infections if users interact with malicious content pushed by the hijacker.
How to Remove Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) – Full Guide
Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) are intrusive applications that often install without clear user consent, usually bundled with free software. These programs can cause browser hijacking, unwanted ads, slow performance, and security risks. Follow the instructions below to remove PUPs from your Windows or Mac system, as well as from popular browsers.
Manual PUP Removal Guide (Windows & Mac)
Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Programs
For Windows Users
- Open Control Panel:
- Press Win + R, type
appwiz.cpl
, and hit Enter.
- Press Win + R, type
- Find and Remove Suspicious Applications:
- Look for unfamiliar or suspicious applications.
- Right-click the unwanted program and select Uninstall.
- Follow the On-Screen Prompts:
- If a dialog box appears asking for confirmation, click Yes.
For Mac Users
- Open Finder → Click Applications.
- Locate Unwanted Apps:
- Look for recently installed suspicious programs.
- Move to Trash:
- Drag the program to Trash or right-click and select Move to Trash.
- Empty the Trash:
- Right-click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.
Step 2: Remove PUP-Related Browser Extensions
PUPs often install malicious browser extensions that cause unwanted redirects and intrusive ads.
Google Chrome
- Open Chrome → Click on the three-dot menu (top-right).
- Navigate to Extensions:
- Click More Tools → Extensions.
- Remove Suspicious Extensions:
- Locate unknown extensions and click Remove.
Mozilla Firefox
- Open Firefox → Click on the menu button (≡) → Select Add-ons and themes.
- Go to the Extensions tab.
- Find and Remove suspicious extensions.
Microsoft Edge
- Open Edge → Click on the three-dot menu.
- Select Extensions → Click Manage Extensions.
- Locate and Remove unwanted extensions.
Safari (Mac)
- Open Safari → Click Safari in the menu bar → Select Preferences.
- Navigate to the Extensions tab.
- Find and Uninstall unknown extensions.
Step 3: Reset Browser Settings (Optional)
If the PUP modified browser settings, reset them.
Google Chrome
- Open Chrome → Click three-dot menu → Settings.
- Scroll down and click Reset settings → Restore settings to their original defaults.
- Confirm by clicking Reset settings.
Mozilla Firefox
- Open Firefox → Click Menu → Help → More Troubleshooting Information.
- Click Refresh Firefox → Confirm.
Microsoft Edge
- Open Edge → Go to Settings → Click Reset settings.
- Choose Restore settings to their default values → Confirm.
Safari (Mac)
- Open Safari → Click Safari in the menu bar → Clear History.
- Select All History → Click Clear History.
Step 4: Check for Remaining PUP Files
Windows
- Press Win + R, type
%temp%
, and hit Enter. - Delete all files in the Temp folder.
- Repeat the process with
%appdata%
,%localappdata%
, andC:\ProgramData
.
Mac
- Open Finder → Click Go → Go to Folder.
- Enter:javascriptCopyEdit
~/Library/Application Support/
- Locate and delete suspicious folders.
Automatic PUP Removal Using SpyHunter
For a faster and more secure method, use SpyHunter, a trusted anti-malware tool. Follow these steps to remove PUPs automatically.
Step 1: Download and Install SpyHunter
- Go to the official SpyHunter download page:
- Click the Download button and follow the on-screen installation steps.
Step 2: Perform a Full System Scan
- Open SpyHunter after installation.
- Click Start Scan Now to begin scanning your system.
- Wait for the scan to complete and review the detected threats.
Step 3: Remove Detected PUPs
- Click Fix Threats to remove all detected PUPs.
- Restart your computer to complete the process.
For detailed SpyHunter download and installation instructions, refer to: SpyHunter Installation Guide
Final Recommendations
- Avoid Free Software Bundles: Always opt-out of unwanted applications when installing free software.
- Use a Reputable Anti-Malware Tool: SpyHunter helps prevent and remove PUP infections.
- Stay Vigilant: Regularly check installed programs and browser extensions.
By following this guide, you can effectively remove and prevent Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) from infecting your device. If you need a quick solution, download and use SpyHunter for automated removal.
Download SpyHunter for PUP Removal: SpyHunter Official Download
Why Is This Happening?
The redirects to Xsendefender.pro are typically the result of software bundled with free downloads or deceptive browser add-ons. These software bundles often hide their real intent behind pre-checked boxes or obscure license agreements. As a result, users unknowingly allow the installation of adware, spyware, or browser hijackers.
While the website itself may not directly host malware, it acts as a redirect gateway to potentially dangerous third-party domains that could host scams, fake updates, or phishing forms.
Conclusion
If you’re being redirected to Xsendefender.pro, you’re not alone—and it’s a problem worth addressing quickly. This threat is a classic example of how browser hijackers silently infiltrate systems, degrade performance, and expose users to security risks. Recognizing the signs early and identifying the root cause is crucial for regaining control of your browser and safeguarding your digital privacy.