Computer Security & Viruses/Google search box ads

Advertisement

Expert: - 9/2/2008


Question
Hi, As soon as I type a letter, any letter into the Google search box, I used to get a drop box with helpful hints consisting of previously viewed pages. Now suddenly, when I type the first letter, any letter, into the search box I see a dropbox with a whole load of links I never used, shops, all sorts of links. Ads I guess. What's going on here? I have cleaned with Adaware and I have Dr Web running constantly. I have deleted history and Temporary Internet files, but still the problem persists.
Thanks for any suggestions. Mike

Answer
Hi Mike

I'll be honest...I have never heard of this happening.  Which browser are you using?  Do you have extensions installed on your browser?   I think it would help for me to see a few screenshots.  You can send them directly to me at numbersix6@yahoo.com.  Also, it wouldn't hurt to have a look at your HijackThis log, in case there really is something malicious.  Please download HijackThis to your desktop from here:
http://www.trendsecure.com/portal/en-US/_download/HJTInstall.exe
Double-click on the file you just downloaded.
Click on the "Install" button.
Upon install, HijackThis should open for you.
Choose 'Do a system scan and save a log file'.
Copy the text file which opens in Notepad and paste it into a reply here or send it to me via email.

Brian

Computer Security & Viruses

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Brian Benosky

Expertise

I will help you in eradicating malware and all forms of virus/trojans/adware. I can answer all PC-related hardware issues. I can also troubleshoot Windows OS errors (all versions) and other software problems. HijackThis logs are a MUST for virus related help. If you do not know how to do this, I have posted easy-to-follow instructions on the Ask a Question page. Every computer infection is different, so I will give you personal instructions on how to remove the malware, not a 'pat' answer. You can be assured of a prompt, polite, and knowledgeable response in all regards.

Experience

I have over 25 years experience in using, building, and repairing computers. I have helped over two thousand people here on AllExperts, with consistent Top Feedback Scores. Please look at my answers here: http://en.allexperts.com/q/Computer-Security-Viruses-1737/indexExp_84308.htm I am also a Top Contributor of General Computing answers in Yahoo! Questions.

Education/Credentials
College Educated Self-taught Computer Skills

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.