Istart.webssearches.com is just another ad-supported web browser plugin which may be legitimate on one hand, but on the other is classified as a browser hijacker and thus its removal is recommended.
What Does Istart.webssearches.com Do to Your PC?
Istart.webssearches.com is a search engine mainly used to hijack personal information from users for advertising revenue.
It is compatible with the most commonly used browsers like Internet Explorer, Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Upon installation, it is likely that it will alter your browser settings and change your default home page to its own.
Experts warn that the search results Istart.webssearches.com performs may be manipulated, which hides various risks for your system. The search results may be unverified and malicious websites, and by clicking on any of them, you could expose your PC to different threats.
Istart.webssearches.com is also capable of annoying you as it will start displaying advertisements and sponsored links in your search results and could disturb your browsing habits. And, by clicking on any of those ads, you expose your PC at risk again.
The worst part about this browser hijacker is that it uses tracking technology to monitor your browsing behavior and record that information along with other personal information such as usernames, emails, etc. This data may then be sold to third parties that are usually advertising agencies aiming to improve their targeting and display custom ads in accordance with your searches.
How Does Istart.webssearches.com Enter Your PC?
Istart.webssearches.com enters your PC bundled with freeware you download. That is why you must always pay attention when installing any software because the bundling is not illegal. It is mentioned throughout the installation process, and you are given the option to opt out of it.
Bundling is a popular method used by the creators of adware and malicious software because they are aware that users rarely read everything throughout the installation.
They intentionally create “recommended” installation settings with the bundling included. Therefore, in order to be safe, simply disallow the recommended settings and choose the “advanced” or “custom” option instead.
How to Get Rid of Istart.webssearches.com?
In case you already have Istart.webssearches.com on your PC, worry not. There is an easy way to remove it. Follow the instructions below to install a trustworthy anti-malware program that will take care of it.