5min after starting firefox another copy opens, then another, then another, etc how do i stop this? this is using win xp, thank you
locking - same topic posted here - https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/questions/1180913
After opening firefox and checking news or e-mail or whatever another copy of firefox opens. This might be 5, 10 , or 15 minutes later, some time later another copy opens. I have uninstalled firefox 6-7 times and then waited a day or two and then reinstalled it yet this problem keeps occuring. This started about 6 months ago and has me baffled. Any ideas as to why this is happening?
Modified
All Replies (3)
Hi Tom, have you run a virus/malware scan recently? This behavior can be indicative that malware may be running on your computer. Windows XP is highly susceptible to malware infection while browsing the web.
I recommend downloading malwarebytes free version and running a scan. Link: https://www.malwarebytes.com/
What is in these unwanted windows? Ads? Then follow Fiz advice.
Separate Issue; Your System Details shows;
Installed Plug-ins
Shockwave Flash 25.0 r0
Shockwave Flash 13.0 r0
Having more than one version of a program may cause issues.
You must remove the older programs. Then get the current full installer.
Flash: Grab the uninstaller from here:
http://helpx.adobe.com/flash-player/kb/uninstall-flash-player-windows.html Uninstall Flash Player | Windows
http://helpx.adobe.com/flash-player/kb/uninstall-flash-player-mac-os.html Uninstall Flash Player | Mac
Then reinstall the latest version.
Note: Windows users should download the active_x for Internet Explorer. and the plugin for Plugin-based browsers (like Firefox).
Note: Windows 8 and Windows 10 have built-in flash players and Adobe will cause a conflict. Install the plugin only. Not the active_x.
Flash Player Version: 25.0.0.171
https://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/ Direct link scans current system and browser Note: Other software is offered in the download. <Windows Only>
https://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/otherversions/ Step 1: Select Operating System Step 2: Select A Version (Firefox, Win IE . . . .) Note: Other software is offered in the download. <Windows Only>
See if there are updates for your graphics drivers https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/upgrade-graphics-drivers-use-hardware-acceleration
Shockwave Director:
Shockwave Standalone Installer / Uninstaller{web link}
Shockwave Director Version 12.2.5.195
http://get.adobe.com/shockwave/
Adobe PDF Plug-In For Firefox and Netscape:
Adobe Reader Version Version 2015.020.20039
Note: Other Software is offered in the download.
Thanks FREDMCD I only saw your reply today 4 months later when I reposted my query. I believe by removing shockwave , that sto;ped the reopening of firefox. Many thanks!