Removing a browser hijacker virus from your computer can be a frustrating and time-consuming task, but it is essential to protect your privacy and security online. Here are some steps you can take to remove a browser hijacker virus:
1. Clear your DNS cache: DNS cache stores information about websites you have recently visited, including any malicious sites that may have infected your computer. To clear your DNS cache, open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac) and type “ipconfig /flushdns” (without quotes) and press Enter. This will sever any connections to malicious software programs.
2. Use a reliable antivirus program: There are numerous programs available that can detect and remove browser hijackers and other types of malware. Some popular options include Malwarebytes, Avast, and Norton. Install one of these programs and run a full system scan to identify and remove any malicious software.
3. Reset your browser settings: Browser hijackers often modify your browser’s homepage, search engine, and other settings to redirect you to unwanted websites. To reset your browser settings, follow these steps:
– Google Chrome: Go to the menu (three dots in the top-right corner), click on Settings, scroll down and click on “Advanced,” then under the “Reset and clean up” section, click on “Restore settings to their original defaults.”
– Mozilla Firefox: Go to the menu (three lines in the top-right corner), click on Help, then Troubleshooting Information. In the new tab that opens, click on the “Refresh Firefox” button.
– Microsoft Edge: Go to the menu (three dots in the top-right corner), click on Settings, then under the “Clear browsing data” section, click on “Choose what to clear.” Check the boxes for “Browsing history,” “Cookies and saved website data,” and “Cached data and files,” then click on “Clear.”
4. Remove suspicious browser extensions: Browser hijackers often install unwanted extensions in your browser without your consent. To remove these extensions, go to your browser’s settings and look for the Extensions or Add-ons section. Disable or remove any suspicious or unfamiliar extensions.
5. Check your installed programs: Some browser hijackers may have installed additional software on your computer. Open the Control Panel (Windows) or Applications folder (Mac) and look for any programs that you don’t recognize or that were installed around the time you started experiencing browser hijacking issues. Uninstall these programs to remove any associated browser hijackers.
6. Be cautious with downloads and websites: To prevent future infections, be cautious when downloading files or visiting websites. Only download files from trusted sources and be wary of clicking on suspicious links. Keep your operating system and antivirus software up to date to ensure maximum protection against browser hijackers and other malware.
Remember that every situation may vary, and some browser hijackers can be more persistent or complex to remove. If you are unsure or unable to remove the hijacker on your own, it is recommended to seek professional assistance or consult with a computer technician.