Fix Browser Hijack: Removal & Prevention

TL;DR

Your browser’s been taken over by unwanted software. This guide shows you how to get rid of it and stop it happening again, step-by-step.

How to Fix a Hijacked Browser

1. Close the Browser: Completely close all open windows and tabs. Don’t just minimise them; actually shut down the browser application.
2. Run an Anti-Malware Scan: This is your first line of defence.
   • Windows Security (Built-in): Open ‘Windows Security’ (search for it in the Start menu). Click ‘Virus & threat protection’, then ‘Scan options’. Choose a ‘Full scan’.
   • Malwarebytes: Download and install Malwarebytes (free version is enough for removal). Run a scan, quarantine anything it finds, and restart your computer if prompted.
3. Reset Your Browser Settings: This will undo most changes made by the hijacker.
   • Google Chrome: Click the three dots (menu) > ‘Settings’ > ‘Reset and clean up’ > ‘Restore settings to their original defaults’.
   • Mozilla Firefox: Type about:support in the address bar and press Enter. Click ‘Refresh Firefox…’.
   • Microsoft Edge: Click the three dots (menu) > ‘Settings’ > ‘Reset settings’ > ‘Restore settings to their default values’.
4. Check Browser Extensions: Hijackers often install unwanted extensions.
   • Google Chrome: Type chrome://extensions/ in the address bar. Remove any extensions you don’t recognise or trust.
   • Mozilla Firefox: Type about:addons in the address bar. Go to ‘Extensions’, and remove suspicious ones.
   • Microsoft Edge: Type edge://extensions/ in the address bar. Remove any extensions you don’t recognise or trust.
5. Check Your Homepage & Search Engine: Make sure they are set to your preferred options.
   • Google Chrome: ‘Settings’ > ‘On startup’ (set homepage) and ‘Search engine’ (set search engine).
   • Mozilla Firefox: ‘Settings’ > ‘Home’ (set homepage) and ‘Search’ (set default search engine).
   • Microsoft Edge: ‘Settings’ > ‘Start, home, and new tabs’ (set homepage) and ‘Privacy, search, and services’ > ‘Address bar and search’ (set search engine).

How to Prevent Future Hijackings

1. Be Careful What You Download: Only download software from official websites. Avoid third-party download sites.
2. Read Installation Agreements: Pay attention during installation and uncheck any boxes offering extra software you don’t want.
3. Keep Your Browser Updated: Updates often include security fixes that protect against hijackers.
   • Chrome, Firefox, and Edge usually update automatically. You can check for updates manually in the ‘About’ section of your browser settings.
4. Use a Pop-up Blocker: Most browsers have built-in pop-up blockers; make sure it’s enabled.
5. Consider an Ad Blocker: While not foolproof, ad blockers can reduce your exposure to malicious ads that lead to hijackers.