Say Goodbye to Hi Ru: How to Block It on Chrome

The internet is a vast and wonderful place, but it’s also filled with potential threats. One such threat is the website hi.ru, which has been known to engage in malicious activities. If you’re concerned about your online safety and want to prevent hi.ru from accessing your computer, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps on how to block hi.ru from Chrome, ensuring a safer browsing experience.

Understanding the Threat: Why Block hi.ru?

Before diving into the blocking methods, let’s understand why blocking hi.ru is crucial. This website has been associated with various malicious activities, including:

• Malware Distribution: hi.ru has been known to host and distribute malware, which can steal your personal information, damage your computer, or even hijack your browsing activity.
• Phishing Attacks: The website might employ phishing tactics to trick you into revealing sensitive data like your login credentials or credit card information.
• Unwanted Advertisements: hi.ru may bombard you with intrusive and annoying advertisements, disrupting your browsing experience and potentially exposing you to malicious links.

While not all websites with the “.ru” domain are malicious, hi.ru has a history of suspicious activity, making it a potential threat to your online security.

Method 1: Blocking hi.ru Using Chrome’s Built-in Settings

Chrome offers a straightforward method to block specific websites. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Chrome: Launch the Google Chrome browser on your computer.
2. Access Settings: Click the three dots in the top right corner of the browser window and select “Settings.”
3. Navigate to Privacy and Security: Scroll down and click on “Privacy and security.”
4. Choose Site Settings: Click on “Site settings.”
5. Find the “Additional Permissions” Section: Scroll down to the “Additional permissions” section.
6. Select “Blocked Sites“: Click on “Blocked sites.”
7. Add hi.ru: In the “Add website” field, type “hi.ru” and click “Add.”

Now, Chrome will prevent hi.ru from loading on your computer. You’ll receive a “This site can’t be reached” message if you attempt to visit it.

Method 2: Using Chrome Extensions for Enhanced Blocking

While Chrome’s built-in blocking feature is effective, you can further enhance your security by using dedicated extensions. Here are some popular options:

• uBlock Origin: This popular extension blocks unwanted ads, trackers, and potentially malicious content. It offers a granular level of control, allowing you to customize your blocking rules.
• Privacy Badger: This extension automatically blocks known trackers and invasive advertising networks, protecting your privacy and improving your browsing experience.
• HTTPS Everywhere: This extension forces websites to use HTTPS, a more secure protocol that encrypts your data and protects it from eavesdropping.

To install an extension, follow these steps:

1. Open the Chrome Web Store: In your Chrome browser, type “chrome://webstore” in the address bar and press Enter.
2. Search for the Extension: Search for the extension you want to install (e.g., “uBlock Origin“).
3. Click “Add to Chrome”: Once you’ve found the extension, click the “Add to Chrome” button.
4. Confirm Installation: A pop-up window will appear asking for confirmation. Click “Add extension.”

Once installed, the extension will automatically start blocking unwanted content, including hi.ru, based on its rules and settings.

Method 3: Utilizing a DNS Filtering Service

DNS filtering services can block access to known malicious websites, including hi.ru, before they even reach your computer. Here are some popular DNS filtering services:

• Cloudflare DNS: This service offers a fast and secure DNS experience with built-in malware and phishing protection.
• OpenDNS: OpenDNS provides robust filtering capabilities, including parental controls, and is known for its user-friendly interface.
• Google Public DNS: Google’s public DNS service offers reliable and secure DNS resolution with basic filtering capabilities.

To configure a DNS filtering service, you need to change your computer’s DNS settings. The process may vary depending on your operating system. You can find detailed instructions online for your specific operating system.

Method 4: Employing a Firewall for Comprehensive Protection

A firewall acts as a barrier between your computer and the internet, preventing unauthorized access and blocking potentially malicious traffic. While not specifically designed to block websites like hi.ru, a firewall can provide an extra layer of security.

Windows and macOS come with built-in firewalls that you can enable and configure. You can also install third-party firewall software for more advanced features and customization.

Method 5: Regularly Updating Your Browser and Operating System

Keeping your browser and operating system up-to-date is crucial for security. Updates often include patches that address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware like the one distributed by hi.ru.

Chrome automatically updates in the background, but you can manually check for updates by going to “Settings” > “About Chrome.” For your operating system, you can check for updates through your system’s settings menu.

Time to Secure Your Browsing Experience: A Recap

By following the methods outlined above, you can effectively block hi.ru from your Chrome browser and enhance your online security. Remember to regularly update your browser and operating system, and consider using a firewall for comprehensive protection.

Moving Forward: Beyond Blocking hi.ru

While blocking hi.ru is essential for immediate safety, it’s important to understand that the threat landscape is constantly evolving. To ensure long-term online security, consider adopting these practices:

• Be Cautious with Links: Avoid clicking on suspicious links, especially those received through email or social media.
• Use Strong Passwords: Create strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second authentication step, usually a code sent to your phone.
• Be Aware of Phishing Scams: Learn to identify phishing emails and websites that try to trick you into revealing personal information.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Is it safe to visit hi.ru if I have a good antivirus program installed?

A: While an antivirus program can help detect and remove malware, it’s not a guarantee of safety. hi.ru has been known to distribute malware that can bypass antivirus software, so it’s still best to avoid visiting the website altogether.

Q: What happens if I accidentally visit hi.ru?

A: If you accidentally visit hi.ru, immediately close the browser window and run a full system scan with your antivirus software. You should also change your passwords for any accounts you may have accessed while on the website.

Q: Can I block hi.ru on other browsers besides Chrome?

A: Yes, you can block hi.ru on other browsers like Firefox, Edge, and Safari using similar methods. Each browser has its own built-in blocking features and supports extensions.

Q: Can I unblock hi.ru later if I need to visit it?

A: Yes, you can easily unblock hi.ru by removing it from your blocked websites list in Chrome’s settings or by disabling the relevant extension. However, it’s recommended to only unblock the website if you absolutely need to visit it and you’re confident it’s safe.

Q: How often should I update my browser and operating system?

A: It’s best to update your browser and operating system as soon as new updates are available. These updates often include important security patches, so staying up-to-date is crucial for online safety.