How To Remove MaptoDirections Browser Virus From Computer?

What is MaptoDirections?

MaptoDirections is an unwanted program promoted as a genuine application with the primary objective to provide a quicker and better version of maps, at least that is what it says and similar was the impression we got after viewing its official website. Now that sounds useful, isn’t it? Now let’s talk about the things which you have definitely missed, and yes, it is big. “MaptoDirections” is nothing more than a spam or you can also call it a backdoor for other malware and threats. It authorizes the installation of malware without the user’s consent.

Followed by the invasion, “MaptoDirections” will take over the web browser and make certain changes to it like it would set default search engine, new tab URL, and homepage to https://maptodirections.com/# (fake search engine). These kinds of programs are categorized as Browser Hijacker. Also, these changes are permanent and resetting the browser will not get you back the original settings.

MaptoDirections is identical to TELEVISION DIRECT, YOUR FAST EMAIL NOW, and many others. In fact, all Browser Hijackers are very similar. Note that these applications might sound very useful at first as they offer various features, but that is just to fool the user and authorize installation of other malware and the very common malware spread by these hijackers is adware, with an end-goal to generate revenue for its developers.

 Also Read: How To Remove THE READING HUB Browser Redirect Virus?

Is adware harmful, can it corrupt your system data?

No, an adware will not cause any harm to your files or operating system. Although, it will certainly annoy you with frequent notifications and ad popups.

Never forget it is a malicious program, and the longer it stays on a computer, the more it weakens the firewall of the computer making way for another malware.

That’s not it adware connects your PC to “Control and Command Centre” which is operated by the hackers and just by modifying the adware they can steal your confidential files, IP-address, your location, browser type, Operating System details, and etc.

Why do you end up on https://maptodirections.com/#?

This redirect to the target portal or website is caused by the Browser Hijacker, this is one of its many symptoms.

If you look closely at the address bar you will find that your default search engine has changed, although it would look like the default search engine.

Targeted Web Browser:

1. Google Chrome.
2. Mozilla Firefox.
3. Safari.
4. Internet Explorer.

Techniques used to distribute “MaptoDirections” Hijacker

1. Social Clickjacking: Creators of such infections use online media such as Social Network and tempting advertisements to provoke or let us say in fooling the users to click on the ads, i.e., Update your flash player or win an iPhone.
2. Spam emails: These hijackers can get into your computer through malicious email attachments and download links present the body of the mail. This emails usually appear to be from a reputed organization, i.e., Banks and insurance companies.
3. It can infect the computer through infected websites or malevolent websites.
4. It can also trick you with fake security alert or system updates.
5. Torrents & P2P File Sharing: Torrents and files shared on P2P networks have a high probability of being a carrier to such infections.
6. It can also infect the computer through portable storage devices like USB stick, portable hard drive or through a disk.
7. Bundling: The quickest and the most relaxed way of infecting a user’s PC with any malware is through freeware software’s, and in this case, the user is equally responsible for authorizing the installation of such malicious program without reading the terms and conditions. Unfortunately, some freeware programs do not uncover that a malicious program will also be installed with it.

Symptoms of “MAPTODIRECTIONS” Hijacker

1. Unstable behavior of the browser, frequent crashes.
2. Changes the default search engine and Homepage to https://maptodirections.com/#
3. Your web browsers are now equipped with all new add-ons toolbars and extensions.
4. Poor system performance, slow response time as advertisements would be the first priority, this will result in slow internet speed.
5. The operating system would crash now and then, or computer would boot up for no reason.
6. New tabs open in browser to display ads or search results would always end up with displaying advertisement banners.

Steps to be followed while installing a freeware program to avoid the installation of Browser Hijacker

While installing a freeware software or a freeware game make sure you go through the license agreement section and read all the terms and conditions.

And If reading the complete terms and condition is too much then while installing the freeware application if the installation offers you “custom and automatic installation”.

It is always recommended that you go with the custom process as this would disclose the other programs that might get installed along with it.

If you see any additional add-ons or toolbars checked, then remember to uncheck them this would avoid the installation of Browser Hijacker, adware and other malware programs.