WHAT IS HICOSMEA.?
It also falls into the PUP (Potentially Unwanted Programs) category or as an adware extension that will show up random boxes, ads or third-party sponsored links. Hicosmea will display unwanted ads whenever you start browsing.
The unwanted software which shows you links and restricts the user to use the Internet can be divided into two class: adware and hijackers. The first ones affect the entire computer, showing you hype links and ads on each new tab in the browser and on the desktop. The second part as a hijacker acts solely in the browsers by substituting the search results, providing false output and sending you to harmful web-pages.
Also read-How to remove Google Chrome Installer App Removed from Microsoft Store?
Targeted Browsers-
- Google Chrome.
- Mozilla Firefox
- Internet Explorer.
How did Hicosmea get on my Computer?
Hicosmea is commonly bundled with freeware/shareware downloads. It gets its way onto your computer in numerous ways like the mentioned below:
- External media, like pen drive, DVD, and memory card already infected with Hicosmea
- Free downloads options by malicious websites
- A bundled program installed while processing any other software.
- Spam email attachments and nasty links to it.
- Torrent or bulk upload sites providing free downloads
- Programs providing graphical enhancements, such as mouse pointer icons, desktop themes and backgrounds, and emoticons and smileys
- Peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing programs
Symptoms of Hicosmea Infection
The primary symptoms of Hicosmea infections are:
- Unwanted advertisements—particularly pop-ups—starts showing up during internet activity
- Your browser is redirected without permission.
- Offers coupons and adverts for strange or unusual websites start appearing
- An increase in spam email messages with malicious attachment
- Change in the browser settings, which mainly includes the home page setting. It also affects your browser startup, downloads, tabs, search, content, and privacy
- Browser pop-ups/program that appears to promote their products
- It helps cybercriminal steal some important information from your computer
Download Free Removal Tool
Tips to prevent Hicosmea from entering your computer :
1. Enable your popup blocker: Pop-ups and ads in the websites are the most adoptable tactic used by cybercriminals or developers with the core intention to spread malicious programs. So, avoid clicking uncertain sites, software offers, pop-ups etc.
2. Keep your Windows Updated: To avoid such infections, we recommend that you should always keep your system updated through automatic windows update. By doing this you can keep your device free from virus. According to the survey, outdated/older versions of Windows operating system are an easy target.
3. Third-party installation: Try to avoid freeware download websites as they usually install bundled of software with any installer or stub file.
4. Regular Backup: Regular and periodical backup helps you to keep your data safe in case the system is infected by any kind of virus or any other infection. Thus always backup important files regularly on a cloud drive or an external hard drive.
5. Always have an Anti-Virus: Precaution is better than cure. We recommend that you install an antivirus like McAfee or a good Malware Removal Tool like Download Free Virus RemovalTool
6. Install a powerful ad- blocker for Chrome, Mozilla,and IE.
