Help! My searches are being highjacked.

Discussion in 'Networking and Security' started by lindq, Nov 12, 2008.

  1. lindq

    lindq

    I'd appreciate some help from a knowledgable gearhead.

    When I use Google or Yahoo for a search, results appear that seem legit when presented.

    However when I click on them I am directed to crap sites.

    Something is hijacking my browser. I am running antivirus, etc., and have erased cookies. But no help thus far.

    I use Windows XP. I am seeing the problem on both IE and Firefox.
     
  2. adware and spybot worked well for me a few years back. at that time they were free.
     
  3. Spybot
    Ad-Aware
    Malwarebytes

    Download and Run all three. Be sure to Update prior to running the scans.

    I also use Spywareblaster in an effort to block some of the critters before they make their way onto the HD.

    HTH.

    - Spydertrader
     
  4. Malwarebytes is an AWESOME program. A virus may elude spybot or ad aware-those are fine for normal tracking maintance-but if you've got some evil stuff cooking Malewarebytes is the kind.
     
  5. wenzi

    wenzi

    Get a mac...
     
  6. Format the hard drive and reinstall the OS.
     
  7. In addition to the previously mentioned programs, I have had good results with SuperAntiSpyware. It is also a free program.
     
  8. lindq

    lindq


    Thanks. Malwarebytes did the job.
     
  9. My buddy's laptop had the same problem - none of the standard virus removal programs touched the problem.

    The only one that worked, and worked permanently was A-squared.

    http://www.download.com/A-squared-Free/3000-2239_4-10262215.html

    Spybot and Ad-Aware both failed to get rid of the problem (it was coolwebsearch I think, and it was nasty bugger).
     
  10. #10     Nov 13, 2008