What Is Hotcore.info Pop-ups Malware?
Hotcore.info Pop-ups Malware is a browser-based threat associated with a risky and deceptive website that abuses notification permissions to distribute intrusive advertisements. If you are encountering persistent pop-ups, misleading alerts, or automatic redirects related to this domain, your browser security may be compromised. Read this article to find out how Hotcore.info operates, why it is dangerous, and what impact it can have on your system.
Despite the word “malware” in its name, Hotcore.info does not usually infect systems through traditional executable files. Instead, it relies on browser exploitation techniques, particularly push notification abuse and redirect chains. This makes it especially effective at bypassing standard security measures while still exposing users to serious online risks.
Domains like Hotcore.info are commonly used within malicious advertising ecosystems. They are designed to generate profit through aggressive ad delivery, traffic redirection, and exposure to third-party content that may be fraudulent or malicious in nature. Interaction with such domains should always be treated as a potential security incident.
Hotcore.info Short Overview
| Type | Fake website, Browser Hijacker, Redirect, PUP |
| Short Description | A suspicious website and rogue search engine that hijacks your browsers and causes redirects. |
| Symptoms | Unwanted pop-ups may start appearing while you are browsing the web. A browser hijacker may be downloaded without your knowledge. |
| Removal Time | Approximately 15 minutes for a full-system scan |
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How Hotcore.info Deceives Users
Hotcore.info frequently presents misleading messages intended to manipulate user behavior. These may include fake video player errors, bogus CAPTCHA verifications, or alerts claiming that notifications must be enabled to access content. Such messages are a form of social engineering, crafted to convince users to grant notification permissions.
Once permission is granted, the website gains the ability to send notifications directly to the desktop environment. This mechanism allows Hotcore.info to continue delivering unwanted content even when the browser is not actively in use, significantly increasing its persistence and impact.
How Did I Get Hotcore.info Pop-ups?
In most cases, users do not visit Hotcore.info intentionally. Exposure usually occurs through forced redirects initiated by other unsafe or compromised websites. These redirects are often embedded in malicious advertising scripts that automatically forward the browser without user consent.
Another frequent source of Hotcore.info Pop-ups Malware is adware or potentially unwanted programs installed on the system. These programs are commonly bundled with free software and installed silently when users rush through installation processes. Once present, they can manipulate browser behavior and inject harmful web content.
Common activities that may lead to Hotcore.info exposure include:
- Downloading freeware from unofficial or untrusted sources
- Visiting illegal streaming, torrent, or pirated content websites
- Clicking on deceptive advertisements or fake download buttons
- Opening spam messages containing embedded redirect links
Because these threats operate quietly in the background, users may not immediately recognize the cause of the problem. This delay allows the malware-associated behavior to persist and escalate.
What Does Hotcore.info Do?
Once active, Hotcore.info begins pushing a high volume of intrusive notifications. These pop-ups often contain sensational or alarming messages designed to provoke clicks. They may advertise questionable products, promote fake giveaways, or display warnings claiming the system is infected.
Clicking on these notifications frequently results in redirection to third-party websites. These destinations may host phishing schemes, scam offers, or malicious downloads. Some pages are specifically crafted to imitate legitimate services in order to steal sensitive user information.
The primary risks associated with Hotcore.info Pop-ups Malware include:
- Redirection to scam and phishing websites
- Increased likelihood of secondary malware infections
- Unauthorized tracking of browsing activity
- Browser instability and reduced system performance
In addition to advertising abuse, Hotcore.info may contribute to unauthorized changes in browser configuration. This can include modifications to the default search engine, homepage, or the installation of suspicious extensions. These changes are typically made to maximize exposure to affiliate content and malicious advertisements.
Even without additional malware being installed, the constant exposure to unverified content represents a serious privacy and security threat. Over time, this can lead to data theft, financial loss, or further system compromise.
How to Remove Hotcore.info Pop-ups Malware
Addressing Hotcore.info Pop-ups Malware requires eliminating both the visible symptoms and their underlying causes. Simply dismissing notifications does not resolve the issue, as the site may still have permission to deliver content or may be supported by hidden adware components.
A complete cleanup involves reviewing browser notification permissions, identifying unauthorized settings, and checking the system for potentially unwanted software. Without thorough removal, the unwanted behavior is likely to return.
Because this type of threat is designed for persistence, a comprehensive approach is essential. Removing all associated elements helps restore normal browsing behavior and reduces the risk of future exposure to similar malicious websites.
What should you do?
If Hotcore.info Pop-ups Malware is affecting your device, it is highly recommended to follow the removal guidance provided below this article. Taking action promptly will help protect your personal data, prevent further redirects to malicious websites, and restore your browser to a secure state. Proactive security awareness is crucial for long-term online safety.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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- Windows
- Mac OS X
- Google Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox
- Microsoft Edge
- Safari
- Internet Explorer
- Stop Push Pop-ups
How to Remove Hotcore.info from Windows.
Step 1: Scan for Hotcore.info with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 2: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode
Step 3: Uninstall Hotcore.info and related software from Windows
Uninstall Steps for Windows 11
Uninstall Steps for Windows 10 and Older Versions
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully uninstall most programs.
Step 4: Clean Any registries, Created by Hotcore.info on Your PC.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Hotcore.info there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Video Removal Guide for Hotcore.info (Windows).
Get rid of Hotcore.info from Mac OS X.
Step 1: Uninstall Hotcore.info and remove related files and objects
Your Mac will then show you a list of items that start automatically when you log in. Look for any suspicious apps identical or similar to Hotcore.info. Check the app you want to stop from running automatically and then select on the Minus (“-“) icon to hide it.
- Go to Finder.
- In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
- Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
- If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.
In case you cannot remove Hotcore.info via Step 1 above:
In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:
You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:
→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons
Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.
Step 2: Scan for and remove Hotcore.info files from your Mac
When you are facing problems on your Mac as a result of unwanted scripts and programs such as Hotcore.info, the recommended way of eliminating the threat is by using an anti-malware program. SpyHunter for Mac offers advanced security features along with other modules that will improve your Mac’s security and protect it in the future.
Video Removal Guide for Hotcore.info (Mac)
Remove Hotcore.info from Google Chrome.
Step 1: Start Google Chrome and open the drop menu
Step 2: Move the cursor over "Tools" and then from the extended menu choose "Extensions"
Step 3: From the opened "Extensions" menu locate the unwanted extension and click on its "Remove" button.
Step 4: After the extension is removed, restart Google Chrome by closing it from the red "X" button at the top right corner and start it again.
Erase Hotcore.info from Mozilla Firefox.
Step 1: Start Mozilla Firefox. Open the menu window:
Step 2: Select the "Add-ons" icon from the menu.
Step 3: Select the unwanted extension and click "Remove"
Step 4: After the extension is removed, restart Mozilla Firefox by closing it from the red "X" button at the top right corner and start it again.
Uninstall Hotcore.info from Microsoft Edge.
Step 1: Start Edge browser.
Step 2: Open the drop menu by clicking on the icon at the top right corner.
Step 3: From the drop menu select "Extensions".
Step 4: Choose the suspected malicious extension you want to remove and then click on the gear icon.
Step 5: Remove the malicious extension by scrolling down and then clicking on Uninstall.
Remove Hotcore.info from Safari
Step 1: Start the Safari app.
Step 2: After hovering your mouse cursor to the top of the screen, click on the Safari text to open its drop down menu.
Step 3: From the menu, click on "Preferences".
Step 4: After that, select the 'Extensions' Tab.
Step 5: Click once on the extension you want to remove.
Step 6: Click 'Uninstall'.
A pop-up window will appear asking for confirmation to uninstall the extension. Select 'Uninstall' again, and the Hotcore.info will be removed.
Eliminate Hotcore.info from Internet Explorer.
Step 1: Start Internet Explorer.
Step 2: Click on the gear icon labeled 'Tools' to open the drop menu and select 'Manage Add-ons'
Step 3: In the 'Manage Add-ons' window.
Step 4: Select the extension you want to remove and then click 'Disable'. A pop-up window will appear to inform you that you are about to disable the selected extension, and some more add-ons might be disabled as well. Leave all the boxes checked, and click 'Disable'.
Step 5: After the unwanted extension has been removed, restart Internet Explorer by closing it from the red 'X' button located at the top right corner and start it again.
Remove Push Notifications from Your Browsers
Turn Off Push Notifications from Google Chrome
To disable any Push Notices from Google Chrome browser, please follow the steps below:
Step 1: Go to Settings in Chrome.
Step 2: In Settings, select “Advanced Settings”:
Step 3: Click “Content Settings”:
Step 4: Open “Notifications”:
Step 5: Click the three dots and choose Block, Edit or Remove options:
Remove Push Notifications on Firefox
Step 1: Go to Firefox Options.
Step 2: Go to “Settings”, type “notifications” in the search bar and click "Settings":
Step 3: Click “Remove” on any site you wish notifications gone and click “Save Changes”
Stop Push Notifications on Opera
Step 1: In Opera, press ALT+P to go to Settings.
Step 2: In Setting search, type “Content” to go to Content Settings.
Step 3: Open Notifications:
Step 4: Do the same as you did with Google Chrome (explained below):
Eliminate Push Notifications on Safari
Step 1: Open Safari Preferences.
Step 2: Choose the domain from where you like push pop-ups gone and change to "Deny" from "Allow".
Hotcore.info-FAQ
What Is Hotcore.info?
The Hotcore.info threat is adware or browser redirect virus.
It may slow your computer down significantly and display advertisements. The main idea is for your information to likely get stolen or more ads to appear on your device.
The creators of such unwanted apps work with pay-per-click schemes to get your computer to visit risky or different types of websites that may generate them funds. This is why they do not even care what types of websites show up on the ads. This makes their unwanted software indirectly risky for your OS.
What Are the Symptoms of Hotcore.info?
There are several symptoms to look for when this particular threat and also unwanted apps in general are active:
Symptom #1: Your computer may become slow and have poor performance in general.
Symptom #2: You have toolbars, add-ons or extensions on your web browsers that you don't remember adding.
Symptom #3: You see all types of ads, like ad-supported search results, pop-ups and redirects to randomly appear.
Symptom #4: You see installed apps on your Mac running automatically and you do not remember installing them.
Symptom #5: You see suspicious processes running in your Task Manager.
If you see one or more of those symptoms, then security experts recommend that you check your computer for viruses.
What Types of Unwanted Programs Are There?
According to most malware researchers and cyber-security experts, the threats that can currently affect your device can be rogue antivirus software, adware, browser hijackers, clickers, fake optimizers and any forms of PUPs.
What to Do If I Have a "virus" like Hotcore.info?
With few simple actions. First and foremost, it is imperative that you follow these steps:
Step 1: Find a safe computer and connect it to another network, not the one that your Mac was infected in.
Step 2: Change all of your passwords, starting from your email passwords.
Step 3: Enable two-factor authentication for protection of your important accounts.
Step 4: Call your bank to change your credit card details (secret code, etc.) if you have saved your credit card for online shopping or have done online activities with your card.
Step 5: Make sure to call your ISP (Internet provider or carrier) and ask them to change your IP address.
Step 6: Change your Wi-Fi password.
Step 7: (Optional): Make sure to scan all of the devices connected to your network for viruses and repeat these steps for them if they are affected.
Step 8: Install anti-malware software with real-time protection on every device you have.
Step 9: Try not to download software from sites you know nothing about and stay away from low-reputation websites in general.
If you follow these recommendations, your network and all devices will become significantly more secure against any threats or information invasive software and be virus free and protected in the future too.
How Does Hotcore.info Work?
Once installed, Hotcore.info can collect data using trackers. This data is about your web browsing habits, such as the websites you visit and the search terms you use. It is then used to target you with ads or to sell your information to third parties.
Hotcore.info can also download other malicious software onto your computer, such as viruses and spyware, which can be used to steal your personal information and show risky ads, that may redirect to virus sites or scams.
Is Hotcore.info Malware?
The truth is that PUPs (adware, browser hijackers) are not viruses, but may be just as dangerous since they may show you and redirect you to malware websites and scam pages.
Many security experts classify potentially unwanted programs as malware. This is because of the unwanted effects that PUPs can cause, such as displaying intrusive ads and collecting user data without the user’s knowledge or consent.
About the Hotcore.info Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Hotcore.info how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific, adware-related problem, and restore your browser and computer system.
How did we conduct the research on Hotcore.info?
Please note that our research is based on independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, thanks to which we receive daily updates on the latest malware, adware, and browser hijacker definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Hotcore.info threat is backed with VirusTotal.
To better understand this online threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.