Google Images Search Is HiJacked
Recently, my Google Images search function began redirecting me to retail purchase sites when I click an image. The function finds images, but instead of redirecting to the associated image page (when I click on a specific image), it instead routes me to a "related" merchandise site. So, something is "thinking" here, because it closely matches the image category I choose and routes me to a different, but specific same-type site to buy something.
Here's the kicker. I'm on a Mac. Until now, I only ever experienced this on my PC and would use the usual Malware scrubbers to clean everything out.
Does this ring a bell to anyone?
Thanks!
All Replies (6)
Did you check the connection settings?
See "Firefox connection settings":
Hi, cor-el. Thanks for the response. Here's a picture of my network settings. In a "How To" article I just read, it says to "choose the first button if I am at home with a direct connection", which I am. However, there are more than two buttons. Should I be on the "No Proxy" setting"? Or is this setting correct?
This is interesting issue... could you also post a screen shot of the Google Image Search result page and the page that it takes you to? That might allow us to better understand what you mean by "hijacked".
Zackpm, thank you for responding. Sorry it took a couple of days to respond back.
I get various re directs. They are different almost every time with different searches, but once in a particular search say, "basketball uniforms" then the re direct is the same site no matter which uniform picture I click.
Here's the most recent re direct when I was searching for trophy plaque sample pics. Additionally, here is the web site link:
http://www.rivasearchpage.com/?q=&aid=810&n=5
Very frustrating, as this is happening almost every search I do.
Hm, that's very interesting. If it happens on almost every search, sounds like you might have malware or a malicious toolbar of some sort. Do you see the same behavior if you use a different computer or a different browser, say Chrome or Safari?
I have not tried another browser. I have Safari and will use it it for a while and update here.
I am a long time Windows user and had issues like this often in the past, which is one reason I switched to Mac. Yes, it is behaving very much the same and like malware. Odd thing is, I've never experienced this with the Mac in the 3 years since I converted. Thought that was behind me!
Will update.