Stop Browser Hijacking

TL;DR

Browser hijacking happens when unwanted software changes your browser settings without your permission. This guide shows you how to remove hijackers and prevent them in the future.

1. Identify the Problem

Hijackers often change your homepage, search engine, or add toolbars you didn’t install. You might also see unwanted pop-up ads.

• Unexpected Homepage: Does your browser open to a website you don’t use?
• New Search Engine: Is your default search engine different from what you chose?
• Unwanted Toolbars/Extensions: Are there toolbars or extensions in your browser that you didn’t add?
• Pop-up Ads: Do you see lots of ads, even when not browsing?

2. Scan with Anti-Malware Software

A good anti-malware program can detect and remove hijackers automatically.

1. Download & Install: Download a reputable anti-malware tool like Malwarebytes (free version is often enough). Malwarebytes
2. Run a Scan: Open the program and run a full system scan.
3. Remove Threats: Follow the on-screen instructions to remove any detected hijackers or other malware.

3. Reset Your Browser Settings

Resetting your browser will restore it to its default state, removing unwanted changes.

Chrome

1. Settings: Click the three dots (menu) in the top-right corner and select ‘Settings’.
2. Reset & Clean Up: Scroll down and click ‘Advanced’, then ‘Reset and clean up’ > ‘Restore settings to their original defaults’.
3. Confirm: Confirm the reset.

Firefox

1. Help Menu: Click the three lines (menu) in the top-right corner and select ‘Help’.
2. Troubleshooting Information: Select ‘Troubleshooting Information’.
3. Refresh Firefox: Click ‘Refresh Firefox’ and confirm.

Edge

1. Settings: Click the three dots (menu) in the top-right corner and select ‘Settings’.
2. Reset Settings: Search for ‘reset settings’ and click ‘Restore settings to their default values’.
3. Confirm: Confirm the reset.

4. Remove Suspicious Extensions

Manually remove any browser extensions you don’t recognise or trust.

Chrome

1. Extensions Page: Type chrome://extensions in the address bar and press Enter.
2. Remove: Disable or remove suspicious extensions by clicking ‘Remove’.

Firefox

1. Add-ons Manager: Type about:addons in the address bar and press Enter.
2. Extensions Tab: Go to the ‘Extensions’ tab.
3. Remove: Remove suspicious extensions by clicking the three dots next to them and selecting ‘Remove’.

Edge

1. Extensions Page: Type edge://extensions in the address bar and press Enter.
2. Remove: Toggle off or remove suspicious extensions by clicking ‘Remove’.

5. Check Your Installed Programs

Look for programs you didn’t install intentionally.

1. Windows Control Panel: Open the Control Panel and go to ‘Programs’ > ‘Programs and Features’.
2. Uninstall: Uninstall any suspicious or unwanted programs.

6. Prevent Future Hijackings

• Be Careful When Downloading: Only download software from official websites.
• Read Installation Agreements: Pay attention to what you’re agreeing to install. Uncheck boxes for unwanted software during installation.
• Avoid Suspicious Links: Don’t click on links in emails or websites that look suspicious.
• Keep Your Browser Updated: Updates often include security fixes.
• Use a Pop-up Blocker: Most browsers have built-in pop-up blockers; make sure it’s enabled.