SearchMe Toolbar is a potentially malicious browser add-on that has been spreading around the web lately. This toolbar is developed by Spigot, Inc., a group that is infamous for producing such suspicious applications as Slick Savings, Dealio toolbar, YTD toolbar and many others. It needs to be noted that any of these applications including SearchMe Toolbar must be removed if you want to maintain a system that is secure and clean. It is well known that dubious browser add-ons are usually associated with numerous internet-based infections. Oftentimes applications like SearchMe Toolbar serve as a gateway for other infections. If, by any chance, you have accidentally installed this dubious toolbar, a detailed SearchMe Toolbar guide is provided in this article for your benefit.
Bundled software is known to be the main way of distributing SearchMe Toolbar and other dubious applications. Usually, bundled installers are obtained on dodgy websites. Avoid various third-party hosting websites and suspicious websites associated with online piracy. Download software from official websites only as it will significantly cut down the risk factor of getting your PC infected. Furthermore, you are advised to always select the advanced installation process as it might allow you to cancel the installation processes of additional programs. Also, if you do not want waste time on various removal processes, you should install a professional malware detection and removal tool as it provides real-time security.
Once SearchMe Toolbar enters your system, it will install browser extensions to Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer. The extension is called Start Page, and it will insert a search box into each new tab page. Moreover, it is known that Start Page is associated with other dubious applications like YTD toolbar. Start Page should be removed along with SearchMe Toolbar without hesitation.
Furthermore, SearchMe Toolbar will create two new Windows processes called ‘Application Updater’ and ‘Search Settings’. These processes can be viewed via Task Manager; unfortunately, it is impossible to terminate them permanently as they will auto start with each Windows launch. You will need to delete SearchMe Toolbar to stop these processes. As it is obvious, these processes are mostly used to update the suspicious application. Moreover, it is possible that the questionable process could be used in order to restore the infection. That is why thorough removal is a must.
In order to remove SearchMe Toolbar, you will have to remove the infection from your PC and then restore certain browser settings. Make sure that the suspicious plug-in was removed completely. Analyze your operating system for any potential leftovers and Use the provided list of files, folders, and registry entries for that. You are strongly advised to use a reliable antimalware tool in order to secure your system from any other internet-based infection.
Remove SearchMe Toolbar from Windows 8
Remove SearchMe Toolbar from Windows 7 and Windows Vista
Remove SearchMe Toolbar from Windows XP
Restore Mozilla Firefox
Restore Internet Explorer
Restore Google Chrome