malware: need to identify it and uninstall
I clicked an .exe to download a zoom meeting list. It installed malware. I'm unable to go to add-on's, options, etc - it opens a blank page. Redirects webpages to all sorts of stuff like porn and IDK what. How do I identify and remove?
What can I provide to assist beyond this: seems the "root" URL is spontaneousguarded.com
Using Chrome, as I do not want to enter my info to ask for help on a compromised Firefox browser. Searching on Chrome doesn't bring anything up that can help an (NON-IT) person. I'm also unable to allow troubleshooting information using Chrome. Thank you!
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You may have ad/mal-ware. Further information can be found in this article; https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/troubleshoot-firefox-issues-caused-malware?cache=no
Run most or all of the listed malware scanners. Each works differently. If one program misses something, another may pick it up.
Thank you!
I took a quick look at those malware tools and they all seemed to have pricing info...not interested. Earlier I had started Win10 scan and found the culprit...methinks??....it's in removal mode. I'm not sure if this will fix it or not. Let's keep fingers crossed!
Question for you FredMcD: I have a pinned document - will shutting down Firefox loose this doc? I cannot generate it again vis website and am currently installing a new printer.
I've also notified the parent URL (verified and secure) of this issue; so that others don't do the same.
I'll post again if unresolved.
If you're willing, please try starting Firefox in its Safe Mode. Firefox will temporarily deactivate extensions, hardware acceleration, any userChrome.css/userContent.css files, and some other advanced features to help you assess whether these are causing the problem.
If Firefox is not running: Hold down the Shift key when starting Firefox. (On Mac, hold down the option/alt key instead of the Shift key.)
If Firefox is running: You can restart Firefox in Safe Mode using either:
- "3-bar" menu button > "?" Help button > Restart with Add-ons Disabled
- (menu bar) Help menu > Restart with Add-ons Disabled
and OK the restart.
Both scenarios: A small dialog should appear. Click "Start in Safe Mode" (not Refresh).
Will Firefox calm down in Safe Mode?
If so, next step:
You can view, disable, and often remove unwanted or unknown extensions on the Add-ons page. Either:
- Ctrl+Shift+a (Mac: Command+Shift+a)
- "3-bar" menu button (or Tools menu) > Add-ons
- type or paste about:addons in the address bar and press Enter/Return
In the left column of the Add-ons page, click Extensions. On the right side, find the "Manage Your Extensions" heading.
If there is at least one extension before the next heading -- "Recommended Extensions" -- please continue:
Then cast a critical eye over the list below that heading. Any extensions Firefox installs for built-in features are hidden from this page, so everything listed here is your choice (and your responsibility) to manage. Anything suspicious or that you just do not remember installing or why? If in doubt, disable or remove. For your privacy and security, don't let mystery programs linger here.
Was there anything questionable there?
kaspytek said
Question for you FredMcD: I have a pinned document - will shutting down Firefox loose this doc? I cannot generate it again vis website and am currently installing a new printer.
What is a pinned document?
Can you save it using Ctrl+s (complete web page format), and copy/paste the contents to a separate program/editor, and take screenshots?
kaspytek said
I took a quick look at those malware tools and they all seemed to have pricing info...
All scanners listed are free to use. The pricing is for subscriptions that can activate special features.
jscher2000 Thank you for the steps! (Question below)
This morning I tried them. I only had three extensions loaded. Deleted one. Still saw the heinous sites...so contacted MS help. Shut down Firefox.
...recommended the following additional:
From Microsoft Advisor https://rtm-microsoft-windows.directly.com/index.html
John W. 2263 Answers • 100% Helpful
Please download and run a full scan with Microsoft Safety Scanner 64bit
When that has finished, run a full scan with your security software by following the steps here.
and to reset Firefox
https://malwaretips.com/blogs/reset-firefox-settings/
Disclaimer - This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information.
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Q: Will resetting my Firefox delete everything?
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And Pinned is an option to save a website as a permanent tab. I did save as a webfile and was able to open in another browser.
My gosh have I not run into this in a while! I forgot what a headache! At least I don't see the blue screen of death...so relatively okay - just a time waster.
- )
Thanks FredMcD! I didn't realize they all were free for use! Much appreciated! :)
Hi kaspytek, one of your replies is in the link moderation queue, an anti-spam feature of this forum. It should appear eventually.
> Q: Will resetting my Firefox delete everything?
Not everything, but several things. See: Refresh Firefox - reset add-ons and settings
oh geez louise jscher2000 - i was reloading and reopening trying to figure out where my response to you went.... i thought it would be one continuous thread. why not? okay - here i go down a rabbit hole - i have forgotten so much in a decade.
Refreshing Firefox {web link} is a LAST RESORT ! !
Refreshing Firefox -- easily fix most problems
If you're having problems with Firefox, refreshing it can help. The refresh feature fixes many issues by restoring Firefox to its factory default state while saving your essential information like bookmarks and open tabs. Everything else, like user settings and add-ons, are removed. Note: Refresh saves your old profile to the desktop in a folder called Old Firefox.