Hoopla Search

Posted by Lisa Blanc on May 25, 2016

What is Hoopla Search?

Hoopla Search is a questionable application that changes user’s homepage and new tab page on Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Also, the extension displays ads and offers that come from third-party partners. We must warn you that the advertising could be clickable, and it might redirect you to untrustworthy websites. Our researchers at Anti-spyware-101.com also learned that the extension might install updates, upgrades or even new versions without your consent. Under these circumstances, we would advise you to change your homepage back to the way it was, but before that you need to remove the application from your system. If you slide below the text, you will find a removal guide that will show you how to get rid of Hoopla Search. test test test

Where does Hoopla Search come from?

In the beginning, the application appeared on the Chrome Web Store, but so far it does not have any reviews, votes or comments. Compared to other applications available on the store, Hoopla Search does not appear to be popular. That could be the reason the extension’s creators began to distribute it bundled with other questionable programs. Installers that contain Hoopla Search might be available on untrustworthy file-sharing web pages that bundle them with browser hijackers, suspicious toolbars, adware, etc. Many users do not review the terms or suggestions provided in the setup wizard, so it is an easy way to distribute unpopular programs.

What does Hoopla Search do?

Hoopla Search sets nt.hooplasearch.com as your homepage and new tab page. The main purpose of this action is that you would use the site for your searches. However, we would advise against its usage as it might display untrustworthy results. Hoopla Search End User License Agreement (EULA) document states that “Third Party Content also may include advertising, or advertising-supported search results, which will be displayed to you if you use the Extension’s search box or click on content from the search results.” This means that even though the site uses Yahoo search engine to collect the results, you could receive a modified variant that includes links or ads. You should be aware that some ads could redirect you to web pages that were created for malicious purposes, e.g. infect your system, gather sensitive information, and other. Naturally, it is better not to interact with such ads.

The EULA also states that “All Extension features and content may be modified, updated, upgraded, enhanced, fixed, added, enabled, disabled or discontinued at any time automatically and without further notice to you.” Therefore, by installing it, you allow the software to install new versions, releases, and other similar content that could be potentially harmful to your computer. Obviously, you should not give such rights to a doubtful application as Hoopla Search.

How to remove Hoopla Search?

The application’s removal should not be too difficult, but if you are an inexperienced user, you might want to consider installation of antimalware software. The security tool would help you delete the program and remove its extensions from your browsers automatically. As for the instructions below, they will show you how to do the same manually. Just do not forget to remove the adware’s extensions from your browsers after you uninstall the software through Control Panel.