How to remove Conduit Search

Imagine you’re browsing the internet, and, all of a sudden, you’re faced with Conduit Search – a potentially unwanted program (PUP) that some identify as a browser hijacker. Unfortunately, while not malicious by itself, it can introduce you to suspicious ads that could potentially expose you to more serious virtual threats.

If you have faced Conduit Search on your Windows or macOS device, it’s possible much more sinister applications are present as well. Therefore, it’s a good idea to inspect your operating system with a reliable antivirus tool right away.

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In this article, discover the dangers associated with Conduit Search. Also, find step-by-step instructions on how to remove Conduit Search from your operating system effectively.

What is Conduit Search?

Conduit Search is a potentially unwanted program, and while it’s not classified as malware, it certainly shouldn’t remain on your computer. Acting somewhat as a browser hijacker, Conduit Search manipulates search engine settings, redirects web traffic, and shows intrusive ads.

In most cases, Conduit Search enters the system bundled with other programs, and users install it without realizing what this program is or without noticing it at all. Because the installer of this PUP can be hidden within a bundle, some users assume it was installed without permission and, therefore, is a browser hijacker.

You can expect Conduit Search to be promoted along with MP3 converters, illegal video game installers, unreliable antiviruses, suspicious registry cleaners, and other questionable pieces of software. Unfortunately, attractive and desirable apps could be used to spread Conduit Search as well as more dangerous malware.

Here are a few important facts about Conduit Search:

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Similar PUP examples

There are many different examples of potentially unwanted programs that are similar to Conduit Search. For example, a widely-known browser hijacker, Search Alpha, which targets Mac devices, alters browser settings, presents unwanted ads, and redirects searches to its own engine.

Another similar program is Search Marquis. Just like Conduit Search, this browser hijacker alters your browser’s settings to redirect to searchmarquis.com. The greatest threat behind Search Marquis is that, just like Conduit Search, it can expose you to potentially misleading and dangerous ads.

Why does my computer keep redirecting to Conduit Search?

Encountering Conduit Search on your browser can be unnerving, and understanding its origins is critical for effective removal and prevention. Conduit Search typically infiltrates systems through deceptive tactics, often bundled with free software downloads or hidden within seemingly harmless browser extensions.

Users may unintentionally install Conduit Search when downloading and installing third-party applications without thoroughly reviewing the installation settings.

Common entry points for Conduit Search:

• Freeware and shareware. Conduit Search often piggybacks on free software downloads. Users may unknowingly agree to install it when opting for the default or recommended installation settings.
• Deceptive browser extensions. Some browser extensions may disguise themselves as useful tools but, in reality, serve as conduits for PUPs and malware. Users should exercise caution when adding extensions and only trust reputable sources.
• Suspicious links. Visiting compromised websites or clicking on suspicious links can expose your system to Conduit Search. Always exercise caution when navigating unfamiliar websites and links.

Understanding these entry points is essential to prevent Conduit Search from infiltrating your system. Stay vigilant, execute installation wizards carefully, and be cautious while browsing to keep your digital environment threat-free.

How to get rid of Conduit Search

While Conduit Search, as a potentially unwanted program, doesn’t pose a huge threat to your virtual security, it may expose you to suspicious ads. Unfortunately, those could be very dangerous. Therefore, it’s recommended that you remove Conduit Search from your operating system ASAP.

Follow the comprehensive guides below to learn how to remove Conduit Search from your computer and browsers.

Step 1: Uninstall unwanted programs

If Conduit Search has appeared on your browser, it’s possible that other unwanted programs have been installed onto your device. Here’s how to uninstall unwanted programs from Windows:

1. Open the Control Panel and go to Programs > Uninstall a Program
2. Identify Search Protected by Conduit, Conduit Engine, or other unfamiliar programs
3. Right-click the PUP and select Uninstall
4. Follow on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation process

Note: If the unwanted program is currently running, before you can uninstall it, you might need to terminate its processes. You can do that via the Task Manager: tap Alt+Ctrl+Delete keys and select Task Manager. In the Processes menu, find the unwanted program’s process, right-click it, and select End process.

Step 2: Remove unwanted extensions and reset browsers

Just like with unwanted applications, if Conduit Search exists on your operating system, it’s possible that unwanted extensions exist as well. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check your installed browsers and perhaps even reset them.

Google Chrome

1. Open Google Chrome and click on the three dots in the top right corner
2. Click Extensions > Manage extensions
3. If there are any unfamiliar or unwanted extensions, Remove them
4. Open the Chrome menu again and click Settings > Reset settings
5. Click Reset settings

Firefox Mozilla

1. Open Mozilla Firefox and click on the three lines in the top right corner
2. Click Add-ons and themes > Extensions
3. If there are any unfamiliar or unwanted extensions, Remove them
4. Open the Firefox menu again and click Help > Troubleshooting Information
5. Click Refresh Firefox to reset the browser

Step 3: Run a full system scan and enable real-time protection

Employ a reliable antivirus program to help you perform a thorough system inspection. A full system scan can help you identify any hidden threats that you might be unaware of. Because Conduit Search could have been installed onto your computer along with other PUPs and even malware, it is important to get a reliable assessment.

We recommend TotalAV, a powerful antivirus solution that performs thorough system scans and has a proven track record of successful malware detection and removal. During in-house testing for the TotalAV review, the antivirus found 100% of threats, and independent lab tests results showed similar results.

With TotalAV’s real-time protection, you can rest assured that Conduit Search and other suspicious programs won’t get a chance to slither in unnoticed.

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Symptoms of Conduit Search

Identifying the symptoms of Conduit Search can help you identify and delete the potentially unwanted program quicker. Here are some specific signs that your device may be affected:

• Persistent pop-ups. One of the most noticeable symptoms of Conduit Search is an influx of endless pop-up advertisements that appear seemingly out of nowhere. These ads might be unrelated to the sites you visit and could even continue showing up when your browser is closed.
• Unauthorized browser redirects. Conduit Search may alter your browser settings and change how you surf the web via the homepage, default search provider, and new tab. You might find yourself redirected to unfamiliar search engines or websites, disrupting your everyday browsing experience.
• Changes in homepage or search engine. Malware and PUPs can modify your browser's homepage or default search engine. If you observe unexpected changes in these settings, it could be a sign of Conduit Search.
• Sluggish system performance. PUPs like Conduit Search can consume system resources, causing your device to slow down. If you notice a sudden decrease in performance, it could be an indication of an infection. Even if Conduit Search doesn’t cause a slowdown by itself, other programs installed along with it could.
• Unwanted browser extensions. Check your browser extensions or add-ons. If you accidentally downloaded Conduit Search, it’s possible that unwanted extensions might have been added to your browser as well.

How can I protect my device against Conduit Search?

To safeguard your device against PUPs like Conduit Search, here are a few actionable steps you can take:

• Install antivirus software. Employ a reliable antivirus like TotalAV to help you identify and eliminate malware. Make sure this software is always up to date and schedule regular system scans to keep your system’s protection in tip-top shape.
• Update operating system and software. Outdated operating systems and software may contain vulnerabilities that could open backdoors to other threats. So, make sure to regularly update your system and software to receive all security patches in time.
• Exercise caution with physical media. Malicious programs can spread via USB drives and other physical devices. Therefore, if, for example, you’re sharing flash drives, make sure to scan them for malware before opening any files.
• Browse carefully. Utilize a secure browser, avoid clicking on dubious links, and refrain from downloading files from untrusted sources. Employ a trusted VPN on public Wi-Fi networks.
• Beware of tech support scams. Not everyone claiming to help actually wants to help. Stay vigilant about unsolicited calls or suspicious tech support pop-ups, as scammers may attempt to trick you into downloading malware or disclosing private information.
• Use strong passwords. Always employ robust, unique passwords for all of your accounts and enable two-factor authentication when available. This will ensure that your accounts are protected in case malware successfully attacks your device.
• Back up data. Regularly back up important data to an external hard drive or cloud storage to safeguard against potential malware attacks.

Adhering to these tips can fortify your device against PUPs like Conduit Search and even more malicious threats.

Conclusion

Liberating your browser from the clutches of Conduit Search is not just about removing unwanted programs, suspicious extensions, and intrusive malware. It’s about knowing how to identify potential threats and deal with them. Hopefully, by now, you know that you should delete Conduit Search if you discover it on your system.

Having navigated the complexities of Conduit Search ourselves, we can empathize with the frustration it brings. Fortunately, there are solutions to this problem. First and foremost, we recommend installing a trustworthy antivirus tool, like TotalAV, to scan your system and remove all threats. While Conduit Search itself is a PUP, it is often seen distributed along with other potentially unwanted programs or extensions and even malware.

TotalAV comes with a reliable system scan and real-time protection to clean your system and keep it clean in the future. Additionally, the antivirus offers anti-phishing protection, ransomware protection, and even a VPN. Premium plans start at just $19.00/year, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee if you want to test the application yourself risk-free.

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