Removing Checkspeedsearch.com (Browser Hijacker)

What is Checkspeedsearch.com? And how does it work?

Checkspeedsearch.com is a browser extension that currently works only on Mozilla Firefox browser. It is promoted as an extension that supposedly improves browsing experience by generating improved results and allowing users to check their internet speed. Although it may look like a legitimate browser extension, however, it contains traits to that of a browser hijacker which is why it is classified as one. Once it is added on your browser, it alters your browser’s settings, effectively changing both your default search provider and home page.
When you search for anything using its search engine, it will only redirect you to Google’s search engine. Because of this, many users think that this is also a reputable search provider since it redirects you to a legitimate one like Google, but don’t be fooled, upon research conducted by our security experts, it is determined that this hijacker modifies search results to cater to sponsored contents like ads, pop-ups, banners, etc. So instead of improving your browsing experience like what it claimed it would, it will only become annoying because of those ads that will constantly bother you and can even cause your browser to lag or crash.
According to Checkspeedsearch.com’s Privacy Policy, it gathers both personal and anonymous information in order to provide you “with a better use”. As promising as it sounds, this actually does not provide you “with a better use” for the information gathered about you might be shared with third parties.

How is Checkspeedsearch.com distributed?

As mentioned, Checkspeedsearch.com is regarded as a browser hijacker due to the fact that it slithers its way into your computer and makes modifications without your permission. This unwanted program finds its way into your computer through rogue downloader and installers. This kind f deceptive method is called bundling. In other words, hijackers like Checkspeedsearch.com are distributed through software bundles. It is important to note that in order to prevent browser hijackers and other unwanted programs, you must always opt for the Custom or Advanced installation method instead of the quick one so that you can deselect other programs that are part of the bundle. That way, you’ll be able to install the program that you really want without the extra baggage. Also, it would be so much better if you download programs from their official distribution sites instead of going to free sharing sites that offer free bundled software.
To remove Checkspeedsearch.com, follow the removal instructions below:
Step 1: Open Windows Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc at the same time.

Step 2: Go to the Processes tab and look for any suspicious processes.

Step 3: Right-click on the files, click Open File Location and then scan them using a reputable antivirus program such as SpyRemover Pro. After opening their folders, end their processes and delete their folders. If the virus scanner fails to detect something that you know is suspicious, don’t hesitate to delete it.
Step 4: Open Control Panel by pressing the Windows key + R, then type in appwiz.cpl and then click OK or press Enter.

Step 5: Look for any suspicious program responsible for the hijacker and then Uninstall it.

Step 6: Hold down Windows + E keys simultaneously to open File Explorer.
Step 7: Go to the directories listed below and look for any software installer related to Checkspeedsearch.com.

%USERPROFILE%\Downloads
%USERPROFILE%\Desktop
%TEMP%

Step 8: Delete any suspicious software installer/downloader you can find.
Step 9: Launch Mozilla Firefox by clicking the tab labeled Firefox. Go to Add-ons and then Extensions.
Step 10: Look for Checkspeedsearch.com and click the Remove button.

Follow the continued advanced steps below to ensure the removal of the browser hijacker, Checkspeedsearch.com:
Perform a full system scan using SpyRemover Pro. To do so, follow these steps:

Turn on your computer. If it’s already on, you have to reboot
After that, the BIOS screen will be displayed, but if Windows pops up instead, reboot your computer and try again. Once you’re on the BIOS screen, repeat pressing F8, by doing so the Advanced Option shows up.

To navigate the Advanced Option use the arrow keys and select Safe Mode with Networking then hit
Windows will now load the Safe Mode with Networking.
Press and hold both R key and Windows key.

If done correctly, the Windows Run Box will show up.
Type in explorer http://www.fixmypcfree.com/install/spyremoverpro

A single space must be in between explorer and http. Click OK.

A dialog box will be displayed by Internet Explorer. Click Run to begin downloading SpyRemover Pro. Installation will start automatically once download is done.