The digital landscape for consumers seeking free samples and promotional offers is vast, but it can also present risks. Among the tools that have gained attention is the FindMeFreebies toolbar, a browser extension designed to help users locate free products and services. While its stated purpose is to enhance the browsing experience for deal seekers, security analysts have identified it as a potentially unwanted application (PUA) or adware. This classification stems from its distribution methods and the behavioral changes it imposes on a user's web browser without explicit consent.
According to security resources, the FindMeFreebies toolbar is developed by Mindspark Inc., a company known for creating various browser plug-ins. The primary function of this toolbar is to provide quick access to freebie-related content. However, the method of installation is often deceptive, utilizing a technique known as 'bundling'. This involves packaging the toolbar with other free software downloads, leading to its installation if the user does not carefully review the setup process. Once installed, the toolbar is reported to modify browser settings, specifically the homepage and default search engine, redirecting users to home.tb.ask.com. Furthermore, these extensions may track user browsing activity, collecting data such as IP addresses, search queries, and browser types to serve targeted advertisements or gather analytics.
Identifying and Uninstalling the Application
If a user suspects that the FindMeFreebies toolbar or a similar application like FindIt-All has been installed on their system, the first step is to remove the main program through the operating system's control panel or settings menu. The process varies slightly depending on the version of Windows or macOS in use.
For users of Windows 11, the removal process begins by right-clicking the Start icon and selecting 'Apps and Features'. From there, one should search for the suspicious application, such as 'FindMeFreebies Internet Explorer Toolbar' or 'FindIt-All', click the three vertical dots next to it, and select 'Uninstall'. Windows 10 users can achieve the same result by right-clicking the lower left corner of the screen to open the Quick Access Menu, selecting 'Control Panel', and then navigating to 'Programs and Features' to locate and remove the unwanted entry. For those on Windows 7, the path involves clicking the Start button, choosing 'Control Panel', selecting 'Programs', and clicking 'Uninstall a program'.
macOS users should open the 'Finder' application, navigate to the 'Applications' folder, locate the suspicious app, and drag it to the Trash. To complete the process, the user must right-click the Trash icon and select 'Empty Trash'. After uninstalling the application, it is recommended to scan the computer for any remaining components using reputable malware removal software.
Removing Browser Hijackers from Web Browsers
Uninstalling the main application does not always revert the changes made to web browsers. Browser hijackers often install extensions or modify settings directly within the browser. Users must manually inspect and remove these add-ons and reset their browser settings to their original state.
Microsoft Edge
To address unwanted changes in Microsoft Edge, users should click the menu icon (three dots) in the top right corner and select 'Extensions' from the dropdown menu. Here, one should look for any recently installed suspicious extensions, such as 'FindIt-All', click the three dots next to them, and select 'Remove'. To reset the homepage and default search engine, navigate to 'Settings' > 'Reset settings' and choose 'Restore settings to their default values'. Confirming this action will clear any changes imposed by the hijacker.
Mozilla Firefox
In Mozilla Firefox, the process starts by clicking the menu button (three lines) and selecting 'Add-ons and Themes', then 'Extensions'. Suspicious add-ons should be removed immediately. To reset the homepage, go to 'Settings' > 'General' and remove the unwanted URL (e.g., hxxp://find.findit-all.com) from the 'Home' section. For the default search engine, go to 'Search' in the settings and remove any unfamiliar engines. If issues persist, users can perform a full reset by typing 'about:support' in the address bar, clicking 'Refresh Firefox', and confirming the action. This will restore default settings and remove extensions, but it will not delete essential data like bookmarks or passwords.
Safari
For Safari users on macOS, open the browser and click 'Safari' in the menu bar, then select 'Preferences'. Navigate to the 'Extensions' tab and uninstall any suspicious extensions. To reset the homepage and search engine, go to the 'General' tab and set the desired homepage. In the 'Search' tab, select the preferred search engine.
Internet Explorer
Although less common today, Internet Explorer remains a target for some toolbars. To remove add-ons, click the 'gear' icon in the top right corner and select 'Manage Add-ons'. Under 'Toolbars and Extensions', look for the unwanted item and disable or remove it. To reset the homepage and search engine, go to 'Internet Options' under the gear menu, enter the desired URL in the 'Home page' field, and ensure the default search provider is set correctly.
Preventing Future Installations
The most effective way to avoid browser hijackers and adware is to practice safe downloading habits. Many of these applications are bundled with legitimate free software. When downloading any program, especially from freeware sites, it is crucial to choose the 'Custom' or 'Advanced' installation option. This reveals any additional software being installed alongside the primary program. Users should carefully read each step and uncheck any boxes that offer to install toolbars, change browser settings, or add unknown applications. If an offer seems too good to be true, it likely involves bundled software.
Additionally, maintaining up-to-date antivirus or anti-malware software can help detect and block potentially unwanted applications before they install. Security tools like Combo Cleaner are often recommended by security analysts to scan and remove such threats automatically. These tools can identify remnants of browser hijackers that manual removal might miss.
Conclusion
The search for free samples and promotional offers is a popular activity among U.S. consumers, but it requires vigilance. Browser extensions like FindMeFreebies and FindIt-All promise convenience but often come with the hidden cost of altered browser settings and data tracking. By understanding how these applications operate and following detailed removal steps for both the main program and browser extensions, users can reclaim control of their browsing experience. The key to prevention lies in cautious downloading practices and the use of reliable security software to maintain a clean and secure digital environment.