Dregol is a browser hijacker that alters your browser settings, redirects your searches, and inundates you with unwanted ads. This article will guide you through the process of removing Dregol from your system and preventing future infections.
Identifying the Dregol Hijacker
Symptoms of Infection
- Unwanted changes to your browser’s homepage and search engine.
- Frequent redirects to unfamiliar websites.
- An increase in pop-up advertisements.
- Slow browser performance.
Removing Dregol from PC’s and Browsers
Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Programs
- Windows:
- Press
Win + R
, typeappwiz.cpl
, and pressEnter
. - Look for any suspicious programs related to Dregol and uninstall them.
- Press
- Mac:
- Open
Finder
, go toApplications
. - Look for any suspicious applications and move them to the Trash.
- Open
Step 2: Remove Dregol Extensions from Browsers
- Google Chrome:
- Open Chrome, click on the three dots in the upper right corner, and select
More tools
>Extensions
. - Find and remove any Dregol-related extensions.
- Open Chrome, click on the three dots in the upper right corner, and select
- Mozilla Firefox:
- Open Firefox, click on the three lines in the upper right corner, and select
Add-ons
>Extensions
. - Remove any extensions related to Dregol.
- Open Firefox, click on the three lines in the upper right corner, and select
- Microsoft Edge:
- Open Edge, click on the three dots in the upper right corner, and select
Extensions
. - Remove any suspicious extensions.
- Open Edge, click on the three dots in the upper right corner, and select
Step 3: Reset Browser Settings
- Google Chrome:
- Open Chrome, click on the three dots in the upper right corner, and select
Settings
. - Scroll down and click
Advanced
, thenReset settings to their original defaults
.
- Open Chrome, click on the three dots in the upper right corner, and select
- Mozilla Firefox:
- Open Firefox, click on the three lines in the upper right corner, and select
Help
>Troubleshooting Information
. - Click
Refresh Firefox
.
- Open Firefox, click on the three lines in the upper right corner, and select
- Microsoft Edge:
- Open Edge, click on the three dots in the upper right corner, and select
Settings
. - Scroll down and click
Reset settings
>Restore settings to their default values
.
- Open Edge, click on the three dots in the upper right corner, and select
Step 4: Scan for Malware
- Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to scan your system and remove any remaining threats.
Preventing Future Infections
Install a Reputable Antivirus Program
Ensure you have a reliable antivirus program installed and keep it updated to protect against future infections.
Be Cautious with Downloads
- Only download software from trusted sources.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or ads.
Keep Your Software Updated
Regularly update your operating system and browser to close security vulnerabilities that hijackers can exploit.
Use a Secure Browser Extension
Consider using browser extensions designed to block malicious websites and ads.