Understanding the FindMeFreebies Toolbar: Risks, Removal, and Safe Alternatives for Finding Free Samples

The FindMeFreebies toolbar is a browser extension developed by Mindspark Inc. that markets itself as a tool to help users locate free products, samples, and services. While this functionality may appeal to consumers interested in promotional offers and no-cost trials, security sources classify the application as a potentially unwanted application (PUA), adware, and a browser hijacker. Upon installation, the toolbar modifies browser settings to redirect users to the home.tb.ask.com website and tracks user browsing activity. The application typically infiltrates operating systems through a deceptive software marketing method known as 'bundling,' which involves the stealth installation of additional applications alongside chosen software. This guide provides detailed instructions for removing the FindMeFreebies toolbar from Windows and macOS systems, as well as from specific Internet browsers.

What is the FindMeFreebies Toolbar?

The FindMeFreebies toolbar is designed to alter the user's Internet browsing experience by assigning the homepage and default search engine settings to home.tb.ask.com. This modification occurs immediately after successful infiltration. Furthermore, the toolbar tracks users' Internet browsing history by recording IP addresses, browser types, default language settings, search queries, and other information. Most current freeware download websites utilize small programs, known as download managers, to monetize their free services. These download managers often bundle additional software, such as the FindMeFreebies toolbar, which users may overlook during installation, leading to inadvertent installation of potentially unwanted programs.

The purpose of these browser extensions is to generate revenue via browser redirects and display of intrusive online advertisements. None of these toolbars add any real value for the user and, in fact, diminish browser performance, track users' Internet browsing activity, and may lead to serious privacy issues, identity theft, or malware infections. Research shows that FindMeFreebies is distributed via deceptive banner ads within free software download and similar websites.

How the FindMeFreebies Toolbar Infiltrates Systems

The primary method of distribution for the FindMeFreebies toolbar is through 'bundling.' This deceptive software marketing method involves stealth installation of additional applications along with the chosen software. Most current freeware download websites use small programs (download managers) to monetize their free services. These managers offer installation of advertised browser extensions along with the chosen freeware, and therefore, users should express caution during the download and installation of free software.

Not paying enough attention during the download and installation of freeware can result in adware or malware infections. The application claims to enhance users' Internet browsing experience by helping them to find free products, samples, and services. Although this functionality may seem legitimate, users should be aware that this toolbar is categorized as adware. After successful infiltration, this browser add-on assigns the homepage and default search engine settings to home.tb.ask.com. Furthermore, FindMeFreebies tracks users' Internet browsing by recording IP addresses, browser types, default language settings, search queries, and other information.

Risks Associated with the FindMeFreebies Toolbar

While the toolbar is marketed as a tool for finding free samples and promotional offers, its actual function is primarily to generate revenue for its developers through intrusive advertising and data collection. The risks associated with this toolbar include:

Browser Hijacking: The toolbar modifies browser settings without explicit user consent, redirecting searches and homepage settings to home.tb.ask.com.
Privacy Invasion: The application tracks a wide range of user data, including IP addresses, browser types, default language settings, and search queries. This data collection can lead to serious privacy issues and potential identity theft.
Performance Degradation: Toolbars of this nature often consume system resources and can significantly slow down browser performance.
Exposure to Malware: The distribution method and the presence of adware can increase the risk of exposure to more serious malware infections.

Removal Guide for Windows Users

To fully remove the FindMeFreebies toolbar and its components from a Windows operating system, users should follow a multi-step process. This process typically includes uninstalling the associated program from the operating system, removing malicious add-ons or extensions from web browsers, and resetting browser settings to their defaults. In some cases, scanning the computer with anti-malware software is recommended to ensure all components are removed.

Uninstall Suspicious Programs

Navigate to the Control Panel. For Windows 7 users, click Start, choose Control Panel, locate Programs, and click Uninstall a program. For Windows 8 and Windows 10 users, access Programs and Features by right-clicking the Start button or using the search function.
In the uninstall programs window, look for "FindMeFreebies Internet Explorer Toolbar" or other unfamiliar programs associated with the toolbar, such as "Conduit" or "Ask Toolbar."
Select the entry and click "Uninstall" or "Remove."
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.

End Background Processes

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
Navigate to the Processes tab.
Look for processes related to the toolbar or other suspicious applications.
Select the process and click "End Task."

Clear Registry Entries (Advanced Option)

Toolbars can sometimes leave traces in the Windows Registry. While specific instructions for registry editing are not detailed in the provided sources, advanced users may need to locate and remove keys related to "FindMeFreebies" or "Mindspark" using the Registry Editor (regedit). Extreme caution is advised when modifying the registry.

Run Anti-Malware Software

After uninstalling the program, scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components.
Recommended tools include Malwarebytes, AdwCleaner, or Combo Cleaner. Combo Cleaner checks if your computer is infected with malware. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Seven days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by RCS LT, the parent company of PCRisk.com.
Ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date for effective removal. Note that while a free trial is often available, full removal may require purchasing a license for the software.

Removal Guide for macOS (OSX) Users

To remove the FindMeFreebies toolbar from a Mac, users should execute the following steps:

Uninstall the Program via Applications

Click Finder and select Applications from the sidebar.
Look for any program related to the unwanted toolbar. In the uninstall programs window: look for "FindMeFreebies Internet Explorer Toolbar", select this entry and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".
Drag the app from the Applications folder to the Trash (located in your Dock), then right click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.

Remove Malicious Add-ons from Browsers

After uninstalling the potentially unwanted program (which causes browser redirects to the home.tb.ask.com website), scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.

Removing the Toolbar from Internet Browsers

Removing malicious add-ons from specific browsers is a critical step in the removal process.

Internet Explorer

Click on the "gear" icon (at the top right corner of Internet Explorer) and select "Manage Add-ons."
In the Manage Add-ons window, look for any add-ons related to FindMeFreebies or other unfamiliar entries. Select the malicious add-on and click "Disable" or "Remove."

General Browser Reset

In addition to removing specific add-ons, resetting the browser to its default settings can help remove any remaining changes made by the toolbar. This process varies by browser but typically involves accessing the browser's settings or preferences menu and selecting a "Reset" or "Restore to default" option.

Prevention Strategies for Safe Browsing and Finding Legitimate Free Samples

The FindMeFreebies toolbar highlights the importance of cautious behavior when downloading freeware and seeking free samples online. To avoid installation of adware similar to FindMeFreebies, pay close attention during the installation of free software.

Choose Advanced Installation Options: Always choose the 'Advanced' or 'Custom' installation options, rather than 'Typical' or 'Quick.' By choosing these options, bundled browser extensions listed for installation along with the chosen freeware are revealed, and you will be able to decline them.
Download from Official Sources: Whenever possible, download software directly from the official vendor's website rather than third-party download portals, which are more likely to bundle unwanted software.
Read Installation Prompts Carefully: Do not rush through installation wizards. Read each screen carefully to understand what is being installed alongside your desired program.
Use Reputable Security Software: Maintain up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware software to detect and block potentially unwanted applications before they can install.
Seek Legitimate Sample Programs: Consumers interested in free samples should rely on official brand websites, verified sign-up forms, and certified promotional landing pages. Legitimate sample programs typically require users to provide basic information for shipping purposes but do not require the installation of browser toolbars or software that modifies browser settings. Be wary of any service that promises an overwhelming number of samples in exchange for downloading a toolbar or application, as this is a common tactic for distributing adware.

Manual threat removal can be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. For many users, especially those without technical expertise, using a reputable anti-malware program is the most effective and safest way to ensure complete removal of the FindMeFreebies toolbar and its associated components. By understanding the risks and following proper removal procedures, users can restore their browser settings and protect their privacy.

Conclusion

The FindMeFreebies toolbar, while marketed as a tool for locating free samples and services, poses significant risks to user privacy and system security. Classified as a potentially unwanted application, adware, and browser hijacker, it modifies browser settings without consent, tracks user activity, and exposes users to intrusive advertising and potential malware. Its primary distribution method, software bundling, underscores the critical need for vigilance during the download and installation of freeware. Complete removal requires a multi-step approach involving program uninstallation, browser add-on removal, and potentially the use of anti-malware software. For consumers genuinely interested in free samples and promotional offers, the safest path is to engage directly with official brand programs through verified channels, avoiding any tool or service that compromises browser integrity or personal data security.