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Conduit is a browser hijacker that spreads through bundling with other software. Once it infiltrates your device, it can lead to various issues, including alterations to browser settings, redirection to undesirable websites, installation of browser toolbars without user consent, and manipulation of search results. Although Conduit's prevalence has diminished over time, understanding its characteristics can assist in identifying similar threats.
Conduit, also known as Conduit malware, Conduit Search, Conduit Toolbar, Trovi, and Trovi Search Protect, is a notorious browser hijacker categorized as adware. It is capable of affecting both Windows and Mac devices, operating stealthily to modify system settings, redirect users to unexpected websites, and install unauthorized toolbars.
The damage potential of Conduit is extensive, ranging from modified browser settings and unwanted toolbars or extensions to search result manipulation, unauthorized data collection, and data theft.
Conduit spreads through software bundling, often accompanying seemingly legitimate programs. Once infiltrated, it can lead to alterations in browser settings, redirection to undesirable websites, and the installation of browser toolbars without user consent. The malware's manipulation of search results poses a significant threat, potentially exposing users to sponsored or malicious content.
Although Conduit's prevalence has diminished over time, understanding its characteristics remains crucial for identifying similar threats that may emerge in the future.
Common symptoms of a Conduit infection include changes to the browser homepage and default search engine, the presence of unfamiliar toolbars or extensions, redirects to unexpected or unwanted websites, unexplained modifications of search results, and an increased display of online advertisements, pop-ups, and banners.
Conduit has various variants, such as Win32/Conduit, OSX/Conduit.G, and MacOS/Conduit.F, each posing specific risks to Windows and macOS platforms.
Conduit primarily spreads through software bundling, infected websites, malicious email attachments, exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software, and peer-to-peer file sharing. Users may unknowingly install Conduit alongside intended software, encounter it on compromised websites, or become infected through email attachments containing the malware.
If you suspect your system is infected with Conduit, take immediate action. Run a Gridinsoft Anti-Malware scan to detect and remove the malware. Manually inspect and reset your browser settings, removing any unauthorized changes made by Conduit. Eliminate unfamiliar browser extensions or toolbars associated with Conduit, and check and clean your system's registry for Conduit-related entries.
Preventing Conduit and similar threats requires proactive measures. Regularly update your operating system and installed software to patch vulnerabilities, download software only from official sources, and avoid third-party download sites. Exercise caution during software installations, opting for custom installations to uncheck any bundled software. Use a Gridinsoft Anti-Malware and keep it up to date. Additionally, regularly back up your important data to mitigate data loss in case of an infection.
If you suspect your system is infected with Conduit, take the following steps:
To prevent Conduit and similar threats:
