Search Encrypt or encrypted search is a potentially unwanted application (PUA) that is designed to hijack your browser and promote suspicious products, also known as a browser extension, that claims to be a privacy-focused search engine. It promises to keep your privacy and search behavior data strictly protected while you’re browsing the web with its help. This offer sounds attractive, but unfortunately, the most concerning aspect of Search Encrypt is that it relies heavily on affiliate marketing to generate revenue. This means that when we click on certain links or ads within the app, they are unknowingly helping to generate money for its developers.
Once installed, Search Encrypt will change your browser settings without asking for permission, including the default homepage and search engine. The developers of Search Encrypt claim that their search engine does not track search history and is safe, but if you read the Terms of Service (T&C) page on their website, you will see that they collect data from users and use it for marketing purposes. I know sometimes we don’t have the habit of reading T&C or Privacy Policies. Before you agree to install anything it’s a great practice to glance over the sections about data collections and how services use our data.
Search Encrypt can also be difficult to remove as it may have been installed alongside other programs or bundled with software downloads. It is important to be aware of this type of program and take steps to protect yourself from it by using reputable antivirus software and avoiding downloading unknown programs or files from untrusted sources.
People Also Ask
Is Search Encrypt or Encrypted search Malware?
Search Encrypt isn’t a malware or malicious software but because the ads and how it takes control of your browser, it may endanger your personal information as it allows the installation of unwanted malware on the browser you use including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
How can Search Encrypt get installed in your computer?
Search Encrypt has been removed from extension stores to minimize users downloading it from there. However, it can still get into your computer by clicking a malicious link or ad that installs the software without knowledge or consent.
How can I tell if my computer has encrypted search?
Search Encrypt can be difficult to detect because it disguises itself as a legitimate search engine. If you suspect that Search Encrypt has been installed on your computer, there are several signs you should look for. Let’s check the main three.
If you start seeing pop-ups and banners that weren’t there before, this could be an indication of the presence of Search Encrypt. Because it changes your homepage and default search engine to its own, and can cause things you’ve never seen before to appear on your screen.
If you find yourself being redirected to websites other than the one you intended to visit upon clicking a link, this could also be a sign of Search Encrypt’s presence.
If your browser becomes slower than usual or if your Homepage and default search engine have been changed to Search Encrypt even after trying to restore them back to their previous settings, then it is likely that Search Encrypt has been installed on your computer.
How to Remove Search Encrypt from Mac or Windows computer?
Choose wisely the removal process of Search Encrypt. I won’t use their own removal tools because it could disguise the installation of more dangerous programs. Instead, to protect yourself from this type of malicious software, it’s important to know how to detect and remove it from your Mac or Windows computer. You can uninstall the application in which it was packaged. Check what were the recent apps installed before you noticed your computer weird symptom appeared.
In addition to using the uninstall features of your computer, use an anti-malware program. Like Malwarebytes or any other reputable antivirus software that can scan for malicious programs and remove them from your system. Additionally, keeping your operating system up-to-date with the latest security patches. It can help to prevent any new threats from entering your device.
How to remove Search Encrypt for Google Chrome
In the top-right corner, on the 3-dots expand the Google Chrome Menu. Select “More tools” then “Extensions” Search for “Search Encrypt” and click “Remove to uninstall. As an alternative you can go to Advanced Settings and “Reset Google Chrome Settings”. Resetting Google Chrome will remove other extensions and configurations.
How to Remove Search Encrypt for Safari
On the top menu select “Safari,” then “Preferences.” Select the “Extensions’ tab.” Select the “Search Encrypt” extension and click “Uninstall” button next to it.
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How to Avoid Search Encrypt or encrypted search?
Preventive measures are the best way to avoid taking over your browser and privacy. Be I AM.
Be Intentional and stay clear of unknown or third-party applications. Choose a reputable antivirus to protect your computer and turn the option to search for potentially unwanted applications.
Be Aware before you click links and if you are redirected to places you weren’t intending to visit. Notice that and take action to solve the redirect. Check for pending software updates on your computer.
Be Mindful and fully present. Remember. You are what you click!
Comment below if you or someone you know have experienced issues on your computer or browser. What did you do?
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