ByNowadays, many websites and tools are being used on the Internet in the name of improving the performance of our devices. But many such platforms are full of malware, adware, or unwanted tools. Hotcleaner.com is also one such name that is in the news these days. In this article, we will know in detail what Hotcleaner.com is, it is safe, and if it is on your device, then how to get rid of it.
What is Hotcleaner.com?
Hotcleaner.com is a website that presents itself as a legitimate browser extension provider. It is primarily known for its browser extensions like “Click&Clean”, which allow users to clean their browser data, such as cookies, cache, history, etc.
However, many users have reported that this extension can also cause unwanted pop-ups, redirects, and browser control actions that can be dangerous from a security point of view.
Is Hotcleaner.com safe?
The answer is not straightforward. In some cases, it has been used for legitimate cleaning tools, but according to most reports:
It can change your browser’s default settings.
It can redirect your browser to other unwanted websites.
It can monitor your browsing activities.
It can install other PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) on your device.
So it cannot be called completely reliable and safe.
How does Hotcleaner.com get into your device?
Hotcleaner.com can usually enter your system in the following ways:
Freeware or shareware installation: When you install any free software, this tool may also be bundled with it. Fake update pop-ups: False pop-ups like “Update Your Flash Player” or “Your PC is infected” appear on some websites.
Spam email attachments or phishing links.
How to get rid of Hotcleaner.com?
If you notice Hotcleaner.com activities in your browser or system, follow the steps below:
1. Uninstall Hotcleaner.com from Windows
Open Control Panel.
Go to “Programs and Features”.
Find and Uninstall Hotcleaner or any unknown and suspicious program.
2. Remove browser extensions
Google Chrome:
Menu (three dots) → More Tools → Extensions
“Click\&Clean” from there, or remove any unknown extensions.
Mozilla Firefox:
Menu → Add-ons and Themes → Extensions
Remove suspicious extensions.
Microsoft Edge:
Menu → Extensions
Remove unknown extensions.
3. Reset browser settings
Chrome:
Settings → Reset and clean up → Restore settings to their original defaults
Firefox:
Help → More Troubleshooting Information → Refresh Firefox
Edge:
Settings → Reset Settings → Restore settings to their default values
4. Use advanced scanning tools
You can use one of the following tools:
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
AdwCleaner
HitmanPro
These scanning tools are capable of detecting and removing malware, adware, and PUPs.
5. Clean Temporary Files and Cache
Use the Disk Cleanup Tool in Windows.
Use a safe third-party tool like CCleaner.
6. Reset browser homepage and search engine
Hotcleaner.com often changes your default search engine. To reset it:
Chrome → Settings → Search Engine
Select “Google” or the search engine of your choice there.
Ways to avoid Hotcleaner.com
Some important tips to avoid this type of threat in the future:
Always download software from the Official Website or Trusted Sources.
Choose the “Custom Installation” option while installing software.
Avoid clicking on the “System Cleaner” or “Fix Now” button appearing on any website.
Keep a good and updated antivirus program installed on your device.
Conclusion
Hotcleaner.com is a suspicious and potentially dangerous browser extension/website that can harm your online security and privacy. If you find it on your system or browser, it is extremely important to remove it immediately. By following the above-mentioned steps, you can effectively get rid of it and avoid such threats in the future.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hotcleaner.com
1. Is Hotcleaner.com a legitimate website?
Answer: Technically Hotcleaner.com is a legitimate website and it offers some browser cleaning tools like Click\&Clean. But its credibility is questionable as it has been found to be associated with unwanted extensions and browser redirection many times.
2. Can my system get infected by Hotcleaner.com?
Answer: Yes, if you have downloaded any suspicious tool through it or the extension installed with its help is adware or PUP, then it can put your system security at risk.
3. How do I know if Hotcleaner.com has affected my browser?
Answer: If your browser homepage has changed, pop-up ads are appearing frequently, redirects to unknown websites are happening, then Hotcleaner or one of its associated adware has probably affected the browser.
4. Can I fix the problem by just removing the extension?
Answer: Sometimes, just removing the extension is not enough. It is also necessary to reset other programs installed with it or browser settings. Also, perform a thorough system scan using a deep scanning tool.
5. Are there any special antiviruses or tools to stop Hotcleaner.com?
Answer: Yes, you can use antimalware tools like Malwarebytes, AdwCleaner, and HitmanPro. These are specially designed to remove adware and browser hijackers.
6. Does Hotcleaner.com affect mobile devices too?
Answer: Usually it affects desktop browsers, but if you have installed any suspicious APK or browser app on Android then its effect can be seen on mobile too. To remove it from mobile, review the app permissions and browser settings.
7. How to avoid such threats in the future?
Answer:
Download software only from trusted sources.
Choose “Custom Installation” at the time of installation.
Avoid fake pop-ups and scam websites.
Use a good antivirus and an advanced browser security tool.
