SeekThatOnline Browser Hijacker: A Comprehensive Removal Guide

The SeekThatOnline – Access to Favorite Sites browser hijacker is a deceptive extension that modifies browser settings to promote the fake search engine seekthatonline.com. This malware-type program forcibly redirects users to specific websites while tracking their browsing activity. It often comes bundled with free software installations, making it difficult to detect and remove.

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SeekThatOnline Browser Hijacker Overview

SeekThatOnline is classified as a browser hijacker that alters browser settings such as homepage, default search engine, and new tab URLs to redirect users to seekthatonline.com. This search engine does not provide original search results and instead reroutes users to Yahoo (search.yahoo.com) or other search platforms based on geolocation.

Additionally, this hijacker employs persistence tactics to prevent removal, collects sensitive browsing data, and may expose users to privacy risks, financial losses, and identity theft.

SeekThatOnline Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Name	SeekThatOnline – Access to Favorite Sites
Threat Type	Browser Hijacker, Redirect, Search Hijacker, Toolbar, Unwanted New Tab
Browser Extension	SeekThatOnline – Access to Favorite Sites
Supposed Functionality	Quick access to users’ favorite websites (social, e-commerce, entertainment, etc.)
Promoted URL	seekthatonline.com
Detection Names	Not available (VirusTotal)
Serving IP Address	18.160.41.55
Affected Browsers	Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari
Symptoms of Infection	– Browser settings altered (homepage, search engine, new tab) – Forced redirects to seekthatonline.com and other sites – Unauthorized installation of browser extensions – Tracking of browsing activity and search history
Distribution Methods	– Deceptive pop-up ads – Free software bundles (bundling)
Damage	– Tracking of user activity (privacy concerns) – Display of intrusive ads – Forced redirects to questionable websites

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How Does SeekThatOnline Infect Your Device?

SeekThatOnline is primarily distributed through bundling, where it is packaged with free software downloads. Users may unknowingly install the hijacker when they opt for “Quick” or “Recommended” installation settings instead of manually reviewing the software bundle.

Common Distribution Methods

• Malicious Advertisements – Fake “Update Required” alerts, software cracks, and other misleading ads may lead to automatic installation.
• Fake Browser Extensions – The extension often masquerades as a “quick access” tool but hijacks browser settings.
• Third-Party Downloaders – Unverified websites offering free downloads may include SeekThatOnline in their installers.

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Dangers of SeekThatOnline Browser Hijacker

SeekThatOnline might seem harmless at first, but it poses multiple security and privacy risks, including:

• Privacy Violations: The hijacker collects browsing history, search queries, IP addresses, and even sensitive data like login credentials.
• Increased Exposure to Malware: Redirects may lead users to phishing sites or malware-laden pages.
• Loss of Browser Control: Users lose access to critical browser settings and may struggle to restore them.
• Performance Issues: The constant redirections and tracking scripts may slow down the browser.

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How to Remove SeekThatOnline Browser Hijacker

Removing the SeekThatOnline – Access to Favorite Sites hijacker manually can be challenging since it employs persistence techniques. SpyHunter offers an automated way to detect and remove this threat efficiently.

Automatic Removal Using SpyHunter

• Download and Install SpyHunter: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Run a Full System Scan
  • Launch SpyHunter and click on “Start Scan”.
  • The software will scan your system for SeekThatOnline and other potential threats.
• Remove Detected Threats: Once the scan is complete, click “Fix Threats” to remove SeekThatOnline and related malware.
• Restart Your PC: Reboot your system to finalize the removal process.

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Manual Removal Guide

Uninstall Suspicious Programs

• Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit **Enter`.
• Look for unknown or suspicious applications (especially recent installs).
• Click Uninstall to remove them.

Remove Suspicious Browser Extensions

For Chrome:

• Open Chrome → Click Menu (⋮) → Select Extensions.
• Locate SeekThatOnline – Access to Favorite Sites and click Remove.

For Firefox:

• Open Firefox → Click Menu (☰) → Choose Add-ons.
• Find SeekThatOnline and disable or remove it.

For Edge:

• Open Edge → Click Settings (⋮) → Select Extensions.
• Locate the hijacker and remove it.

Reset Browser Settings

• Open your browser and go to Settings.
• Scroll down and click Reset settings or Restore defaults.
• Confirm and restart your browser.

Check and Reset Hosts File

• Press Windows + R, type notepad C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts, and press Enter.
• If suspicious IP addresses are listed below “127.0.0.1 localhost”, remove them and save the file.

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Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Infections

• Be Cautious with Free Software – Always use the “Custom” or “Advanced” installation option.
• Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Ads – Ignore pop-ups claiming “Your PC is at risk!” or “Update your software now!”.
• Use a Reputable Security Tool – Keep SpyHunter or another trusted anti-malware program active.
• Keep Your Browser and OS Updated – Enable automatic updates for your browser and operating system.
• Manage Browser Extensions Wisely – Only install extensions from official browser stores.

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Final Thoughts

The SeekThatOnline – Access to Favorite Sites browser hijacker is more than just an inconvenience—it poses real security and privacy risks. By following the SpyHunter removal guide and implementing preventive measures, you can protect your device from similar threats in the future.