Browser Hijacker

Remove FortSearch Browser Hijacker

Is your computer infected by FortSearch virus? Are your browser homepage and search engines automatically got replaced by fortsearch.xyz? Are you getting lots of sponsored search results that lead to unwanted browser redirection? Is your browser getting filled with lots of ads and pop-ups which is interrupting your online activities? Are you unable to get rid of these problems? Do you want to remove FortSearch virus completely from your PC? If Yes, then this guide can help you.

SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware

Threats like FortSearch Virus keeps getting back on PC if all associated files are not removed. So you are advised to use a powerful Malware Removal Tool to run a thorough scan of your PC and delete all threats at once.

Special Offer SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware offers a 7-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter 5 Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.
Compatible with: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10/11 (32-bit and 64-bit)

What is FortSearch

FortSearch is a fake computer program that pretends to be genuine and useful. It claims to enhance the experience of users by showing relevant ads but the main motive of this program is monetization. It bombards the infected computer with lots of ads, pop-ups, banners, offers, and unwanted browser redirects to boost the traffic of its partner sites. FortSearch is solely intended to generate revenue for low-quality websites by aggressive web redirection and earn a commission for its services. Creators of this nasty infection usually embed it with free third-party programs to spread it online.

Remove FortSearch

FortSearch is yet another vicious browser hijacker virus that is capable to control all known web browsers such as I.E, Chrome, Opera, Edge, Firefox, etc. On infected PC. It has been created by hackers to earn a quick profit. It usually sneaks into the targeted computer by stealth using different malicious tactics. Once activated, it will quickly modify all crucial settings in your web browser. It keeps redirecting users to different questionable sites. Due to this malware, users are unable to surf their favorite sites on the infected systems. Hence, it is very necessary to delete FortSearch virus at the earliest.

FortSearch virus not only causes browsing issues in your system but also compromises your system severely. It makes your system slower than ever before and also decreases your Internet speed. What’s more, users will experience frequent system crashes, hard drive failure, application malfunctioning, and other critical issues. This virus can also download other harmful viruses and make your PC vulnerable to fatal corruption. It is also quite risky for users’ privacy as it steals confidential information from victimized computers. Therefore, it is recommended that users remove FortSearch virus as soon as possible.

How does it infect your PC?

It is a dubious computer infection and it can get into your system through various tricks. Normally creators of FortSearch virus use software bundling to spread this infection. Most of the free download websites offer freeware programs that contain some additional attachments. This kind of hidden program doesn’t show any notification and gets installed silently. You can avoid this by choosing the Custom or Advanced installation option.

Spam emails sent by an unknown person may also carry malicious attachments that can download threats like FortSearch on a targeted PC. Apart from this, browsing porn or torrent sites, downloading cracked software or games, installing fake software updates are some other ways through which your computer can get infected.

FortSearch: Threat Analysis

Name FortSearch
Type Browser Hijacker
Threat Level High (source to distribute other harmful threats).
Symptoms Users can experience lots of pop-up ads, push notifications, and forced browser redirection.
Distribution It could be distributed through spam emails, bundled freeware, porn, or torrent sites.
Damage It can modify browsers, show unwanted Ads, steal personal info and bring other threats.
Removal Download SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware

Harmful Effects of FortSearch

Once inside your computer, FortSearch virus can do major changes to system and security settings. It can expose your entire system to others threats and risk your privacy. As it can gain full access to your browsers, it can install malicious add-ons or extensions and allow cookie permission for phishing websites to gather sensitive details.

It can steal all your passwords, social media accounts, email ID, credit card credentials without your knowing. This virus can share those personal details with third parties which can be used for illegal online activities. It may also make your system vulnerable to other threats and malware attacks. FortSearch is a malicious infection that users should not install on their computer and remove as soon as they detect this program.

How To Remove FortSearch Virus

FortSearch is a dangerous malware that can cause major damage to your computer. This nasty threat will bring several new problems on your PC. This is why it is quite imperative to delete this threat permanently before it completely damages your entire computer system. Once it manages to infiltrate your system, it will make your system vulnerable. This nasty malware is capable of bringing other harmful viruses on your system without your consent. It can completely obliterate your system performance in no time. This virus also has tendency to hide its malicious copies at various locations on your PC under different names. It is not an easy job to find and remove those virus related files manually.

In this guide, you will find instructions for two very different techniques to get rid of FortSearch infection . The first one is the Automatic Removal which is quite fast, effective and accurate. The second method is Manual Removal which usually takes lots of time, needs technical expertise, and often fails to give desired results. However, it is advised to take help of both techniques to ensure complete removal of the malware from your system. In case you are not handy with system operations and techincal stuff, just opt for the automatic malware removal process to eliminate FortSearch infection.

Automatic FortSearch Removal Guide

As you already know, FortSearch is a notorious and cunning malware that is not hard to remove easily by any user through manual means. This virus can keep coming back on the infected computer through files and shortcuts or settings that it has already created on your machine. Removing all those at once is the only way to get rid of this infection and stop it from getting into your system ever again.

So the best way to remove FortSearch effectively is to use a powerful Automatic Removal Tool and save your time and efforts. This software is a well-trusted and very powerful anti-malware program that can detect all hidden threats like Trojan, Ransomware, Worms, Spyware, Rootkits, and many others. It also provides 24X7 customer support and one-on-one Spyware HelpDesk support for Custom Malware removal. Advanced System Guard feature detects and removes threats in real-time. It has a very User-Friendly Interface and regular Malware updates make it most effective against the latest malware attacks.

How SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware Works

  • First, you need to click on the below download button to get the software.

Geek’s Recommendation

Sometimes threats like FortSearch keep getting back on the machine if all associated files are not removed. So you are advised to use a powerful Malware Removal Tool to run a thorough scan of your PC and delete all threats at once.

Compatible with: Windows 11/10/8/7 (32 Bit and 64 Bit)

Special Offer SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware offers a 7-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter 5 Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.
  • Then double-click on the installer you downloaded to install the program.
SpyHunter Installeruser access control
  • Launch the Anti-Malware application and click on the Start Scan Now button.
Scan for FortSearch
  • The software will scan your PC for all hidden threats and viruses on your system.
Scan for FortSearch
  • Click on the Next button to see results and delete FortSearch and other threats.
Remove FortSearch

Manual FortSearch Removal Guide

Before you start Manual Removal
Please Bookmark This Page by pressing the {ctrl+D} button or print it out on paper before you start the Manual Removal because you may need to restart your PC or browser.) Attention! For the safety of your system, please confirm a few things before you begin Manual Removal of FortSearch infection:
  1. You have done this before, which means you have experience in removing the virus manually;
  2. That you know your way around PC and  all necessary processes and applications;
  3. You know about Registry entry and the Serious repercussions of any mistake;
  4. Make sure you can reverse any mistake made during FortSearch manual removal.

If you don’t attain any of the above standards, then manual removal could be a very risky idea. It is most likely best for you to use the Automatic Malware Removal Tool to find and delete FortSearch, which is totally secure and efficient method.

Compatible with: Windows 11/10/8/7 (32 Bit and 64 Bit)

Special Offer SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware offers a 7-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter 5 Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.

Start PC in safe mode with networking

  • Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
  • Type msconfig in the Run Box then click the OK button.
  • Click on the Boot tab to open the System configuration window.
  • Choose Safe Boot, check the network box, Click Apply, and press the OK button.
Safe boot

Kill Malicious Process From Task Manager

  • Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
  • Type taskmgr in Run Box and then click the OK button.
  • Find FortSearch related or any malicious process.
  • Now right-click on it then click End process.
Stop FortSearch related task

How To Uninstall FortSearch from Windows PC

  • First of all Press Windows Key + R buttons together.
  • Type appwiz.cpl in the Run box and then click the OK button.
  • Now Programs and Features windows will appear on the screen.
  • Find and remove all FortSearch related or malicious programs.
Remove FortSearch

Remove Virus related Windows Registry entries

  • Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
  • Type regedit in Run Box and then click the OK button.
  • Registry Editor will open, then press CTRL +F buttons together.
  • Now type FortSearch and then click on Find Next button.
  • Find all the related entries and delete them one by one
Remove FortSearch related registry

Warning: Meddling with Windows Registry files might not be a good idea if you don’t have advanced knowledge about registry files. Deleting the wrong file can break down your entire system. Proceed at your own risk, or just skip this step. You can choose the Automatic Removal method and avoid all the problems.

Remove FortSearch from Mac

If you are a mac user, and your machine got infected by this nasty malware then you need to remove it as soon as possible. Although Mac systems are quite safe they still do get infected. So you can delete this infection using the below steps:

Stop Malicious Program From Activity Monitor

  • First, you need to open Utilities folder on your Mac system.
  • Find the Activity Monitor icon and double-click on it to open it.
  • Find FortSearch related process, click the cross button from the upper left side corner to end the task.
  • A pop-up dialogue box will appear on the screen, click on the Force Quit button.

Remove Virus From Application Folder

  • First, go to the Dock option (bottom of your screen) then click on Finder App.
  • Now you have to open the Applications Folders to see all the programs.
  • Find FortSearch or any other unwanted program then move it to Trash.
Remove FortSearch

Remove FortSearch Related Files From Mac

When any program is installed on your Mac, it creates several files on your system that support the functioning of that application. If you need to remove any virus from your Mac, then you need to delete all related files completely. These files could be found at :
  1. LaunchAgents
  2. Application Support
  3. LaunchDaemons
Follow the below steps to remove virus related files from these locations:
  • First of all press the Command+Shift+G buttons together on your keyboard.
  • Now you can see the Go To Folder option on your Mac screen.
  • Type in /Library/LaunchAgents in the text field and click on the Go button.
  • Find and remove any FortSearch related or malicious file.
Now follow the same process for Application Support and LaunchDaemons folders. But be careful, don’t delete any important files or you can break down your entire system.

Attention: If you are not tech-savvy, then it could be quite difficult to remove FortSearch manually from your Mac. The best way is to download SpyHunter Mac Anti-Malware and see if it can detect all hidden threats and viruses on your computer. It’s really super easy and you should give it a try.

How SpyHunter Mac Anti-Malware Works

  • First, download the SpyHunter for Mac by clicking on the below button.

Sometimes threats like FortSearch keep getting back on the machine if all associated files are not removed. So you are advised to use a powerful Malware Removal Tool to run a thorough scan of your Mac and delete all threats at once.

Special Offer SpyHunter for Mac offers a 15-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter for Mac Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.
  • Now go to the Download Folder from the Docs and Install the SpyHunter Anti-Malware For Mac.
Install SpyHunter for Mac
  • Launch the Program, and click on Start Scan Now button.
Spyhunter for Mac start scan now
  • The software will start running a full scan of your mac instantly to look for any malware, virus, threats, malicious programs or security risks, and so on.
Spyhunter for mac scanning
  • Finally, you will see a list of malware detected on your mac, now click on the Next button to start the removal process.
Remove Malware with spyhunter for mac

Remove FortSearch From Browser

Most of the time, threats like this make several changes to the browser which helps it to track victims’ online activities. It is important to completely remove FortSearch from the browser or it may come back. Follow the below steps to remove this infection from your browser.

Delete Malicious Extensions From Browser

Many spyware now has browser hijacking capabilities to show ads, offers, alerts, notifications, or steal the personal information of the victim. Follow the below steps to remove malicious extensions from your browser.

Remove FortSearch From Google Chrome

Note: Type or copy-paste – chrome://extensions in the URL bar of Google Chrome then press ENTER button to open the extensions page directly or follow the below steps.

  • Open your Google Chrome browser, and click the Menu (⋮) option from the upper right corner.
  • Select More tools then click on the Extensions option to find all installed Extensions on chrome.
  • Choose FortSearch related extensions then click the trash can icon to remove them completely.
Remove FortSearch From Google Chrome

Remove FortSearch From Mozilla Firefox

Note: Type or copy-paste – about:addons in URL bar Firefox then hit ENTER button to open the extensions page directly or follow the below steps.

  • Open your Mozilla Firefox browser, and click on Menu (☰) option from the upper right corner.
  • Select Add-ons option from the drop-down menu of the list.
  • Choose the Extensions option to see all installed extensions on your browser.
  • Choose FortSearch related extensions then click on the Remove button.
Remove FortSearch From Mozilla Firefox

Remove FortSearch From Microsoft Edge

  • Open your MS Edge browser, and click on More Tools (⋮) option from the upper right corner.
  • Select the Extensions option from the drop-down menu to see extensions on your browser.
  • Choose FortSearch related extension then click on Uninstall button to remove it.
Remove FortSearch From Microsoft Edge

Remove FortSearch From Apple Safari

  • Open your Safari browser then tap on the Preferences option from the Safari menu.
  • Open the Extensions tab, find FortSearch related extensions then click Uninstall button.
  • Finally, again click the Uninstall button to remove the extension completely.
Remove FortSearch From Apple Safari

Remove FortSearch From Internet Explorer

  • Open your Internet Explorer then click on Menu option from the upper right corner.
  • Select the manage Add-ons option from the drop-down list to see the installed extension.
  • Find FortSearch related extensions and click on Disable button to remove them.
Remove FortSearch From Internet Explorer

Reset Browser Setting to Default

Once you remove FortSearch from your browser, you might want to reset the browser to default settings to reset any changes made by the virus. Follow the below steps for that :

Reset Google Chrome Web Browser

  • Open Google Chrome, click on Menu (⋮) then select the Settings option.
  • Scroll down to the bottom, and hit the Show Advanced settings option.
  • From Reset and clean up click on Restore settings to their original defaults.
  • Finally, click on the Reset Settings button to reset your chrome browser.
Reset Google Chrome Web Browser

Reset Mozilla Firefox Browser

  • Open your Mozilla Firefox browser, click on Menu (☰) option and select the (?) icon.
  • Click on the Troubleshooting Information option from the drop-down menu.
  • Then press the Refresh Firefox button and give confirmation.
Reset Mozilla Firefox Browser

Reset MS Edge Browser

  • Open the MS Edge browser, click on More Tools (⋮) option, and select settings.
  • Click on Choose what to clear Option, choose the first three options then click on the Clear button.
Reset MS Edge Browser

Reset Safari To Default

  • Open your Safari browser, tap on the Safari menu, and select the Reset Safari option.
  • Now check all the boxes and then finally click on the Reset button.
Reset Safari To Default

Reset Internet Explorer Browser

  • Open your Internet Explorer then click on Menu icon and hit Internet options.
  • Visit the Advanced tab then click the Reset button.
  • Check the Delete personal settings option, and hit the Reset button.
Reset Internet Explorer Browser

How to Enable Browser Protection

Follow the below steps to enable built-in dangerous site protection in your web browsers. You can follow the same steps if you want to stop the malware protection on your browser.

Google Chrome – Dangerous Sites Protection

  • Open your Chrome web browser, type chrome://settings in the URL bar, and press Enter.
  • Got to bottom of the page and select the “Show advanced settings” option.
  • Look for the Privacy and security section then click on Sync and Google services.
  • Now turn on the Safe Browsing (Protect you and your device from dangerous sites) option.
Chrome dangerous site (phishing) protection

Safari Browser – Change Security preferences in Safari

  • Open your Safari web browser, then tap on the Safari menu and select Preferences.
  • Now you have to open the Security options on your Safari browser.
  • Check Warn When Visiting a Fraudulent website box from the Fraudulent Sites section.
Safari Phishing protection

Mozilla Firefox – Block Attack Sites and Web Forgeries

  • Open your Firefox web browser, click on Menu (☰) and select Options from the list.
  • Now click on the Security option and then select the following items:
block suspicious sites of firefox
  1. Warn me when sites try to install add-ons
  2. Block reported attack sites
  3. Block reported web forgeries

Edge Browser – Activate SmartScreen Filter

  • Open your MS Edge web browser, and click on More (⋮) icon from the upper right corner.
  • Click on the Settings option from the Edge menu drop-down list.
  • Scroll down and find the View Advanced Settings option then open it.
  • Turn ON the “help protect my PC from malicious sites and downloads with SmartScreen Filter” option.
Edge smart screen filter

Internet Explorer – Activate Microsoft SmartScreen Filter

  • Open your IE web browser, then click on Menu icon and hit Safety options.
  • Now click on the SmartScreen Filter option from the drop-down list.
  • Turn on SmartScreen Filter and restart your browser.
IE phishing protection

If you made these settings on your browser then phishing and malware protection on your browser is now active. But it does not mean that your computer cannot get infected by threats. These settings may block some dangerous and suspicious sites but there are other ways through which hackers can target your PC. So you must download a powerful Anti-Malware application on your computer that provides real-time protection to ensure your system security.

Tips To Prevent FortSearch Virus in Future

  • Use a good anti-virus, be it a free version but don’t use cracked security programs.
  • Make sure that your Windows firewall is active, so it can block upcoming threats.
  • Keep your Windows OS and other programs updated to avoid vulnerabilities.
  • Download updates only from official websites, don’t use suspicious sites.
  • Never download and install pirated software, games, or illegal patches on your PC.
  • Do not open spam emails from an unknown sender and scan all attachments before opening.
  • Never download freeware third-party programs from unreliable sources or websites.
  • Avoid connecting your PC to unsafe public Wi-Fi to protect your privacy.
  • You can also use a VPN to spoof your connection and avoid malicious sites.
  • Create a system restore point on your system for security purposes.
  • Keep a backup of all your important files to avoid data loss.
Still, having issues? Need help?

Sometimes threats like FortSearch keep getting back on the machine if all associated files are not removed. You are advised to use a Powerful Anti-Malware Tool to run a thorough scan of your PC and delete all threats at once.

Compatible with: Windows 11/10/8/7 (32 Bit and 64 Bit)

Special Offer SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware offers a 7-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter 5 Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.

About the author

Robert Calvert

Robert is the Chief Security Expert and Founder of PCSafetyGeek.com website. He is a cybersecurity enthusiast who loves to research about Malware outbreaks and write about their remedies. He also like to spend time trying new software, reviewing them and sharing IT news. However he is a real coffee lover and likes to play chess in spare time (which is quite rare 😜).

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