HijackThis
Revision as of 02:57, 8 March 2025 by Sneak (talk | contribs) (Created page with "{{Infobox software | name = HijackThis | logo = 200px | developer = Trend Micro (originally by Merijn Bellekom) | latest_release_version = 2.0.5 | operating_system = Microsoft Windows | genre = System diagnostics, Malware analysis | license = Open-source (GPL) | website = [https://sourceforge.net/projects/hjt/ HijackThis on SourceForge] }} == Overview == '''HijackThis''' (HJT) is an...")
Overview
HijackThis (HJT) is an open-source system diagnostic tool originally developed by Merijn Bellekom and later acquired by Trend Micro. It scans a Windows system for browser hijackers, spyware, and other unauthorized modifications, generating a detailed log that helps users and security experts analyze and remove malicious entries.
Unlike traditional antivirus software, HijackThis does not automatically remove threats; instead, it provides a report for manual analysis, allowing advanced users to make informed decisions about potential malware.
Features
- Scans and lists system modifications, including browser settings and startup entries.
- Identifies registry changes, toolbars, browser helper objects (BHOs), and malicious startup programs.
- Provides an in-depth log for manual malware analysis.
- Allows users to selectively remove suspicious entries.
- Open-source and actively maintained by the community.
Compatibility
HijackThis is compatible with:
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista
- Windows 7
- Windows 8
- Windows 10
Although still available, its effectiveness against modern threats has diminished due to evolving malware techniques.
Usage
- Download HijackThis from the official SourceForge page.
- Run the executable as an administrator (no installation required).
- Click "Scan" to generate a log of system modifications.
- Review the log or submit it to security forums for expert analysis.
- Manually remove unwanted entries if necessary (use caution).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✔ Provides detailed system analysis for detecting malware.
- ✔ Portable and does not require installation.
- ✔ Open-source and free to use.
Cons
- ✘ Does not automatically remove malware.
- ✘ Requires advanced knowledge to interpret logs.
- ✘ Not effective against modern malware with advanced persistence techniques.
Alternative Software
- FRST (Farbar Recovery Scan Tool) – A modern diagnostic tool for malware analysis.
- AdwCleaner – Specialized in detecting adware and browser hijackers.
- Autoruns – A Microsoft tool for managing startup programs and registry entries.
Developer
- Original Author: Merijn Bellekom
- Current Developer: Trend Micro (Later released as open-source)
- Status: Open-source and available for download.