iStartSurf is a browser hijacker that can alter your browser settings, redirecting your searches and homepages to unwanted websites. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to removing iStartSurf from your system and preventing its future installation.
Identifying iStartSurf
Symptoms of iStartSurf Infection
- Your browser’s homepage or default search engine has changed without your permission.
- You see new toolbars, extensions, or unfamiliar icons in your browser.
- Frequent redirects to unknown websites occur while browsing.
- Pop-up ads and unwanted advertisements appear more often.
Removing iStartSurf from your PC and Browser
Stap 1: Verdachte programma's verwijderen
- Windows:
- Open Control Panel.
- Go to “Programs and Features” or “Add or Remove Programs.”
- Look for recently installed programs that appear suspicious.
- Select and uninstall these programs.
- Mac:
- Open "Finder".
- Ga naar "Toepassingen".
- Look for unfamiliar or suspicious applications.
- Drag these applications to the Trash and empty it.
Stap 2: Extensies verwijderen uit browsers
- Google Chrome:
- Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner.
- Go to “More tools” and select “Extensions.”
- Find any extensions related to iStartSurf and click “Remove.”
- Mozilla Firefox:
- Click on the three lines in the upper-right corner.
- Go to “Add-ons” and select “Extensions.”
- Locate and remove any iStartSurf-related extensions.
- Internet Explorer:
- Click on the gear icon in the upper-right corner.
- Select “Manage add-ons.”
- Find and disable or remove any suspicious add-ons.
- Microsoft Edge:
- Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner.
- Go to “Extensions.”
- Locate and remove any extensions associated with iStartSurf.
Stap 3: Browserinstellingen opnieuw instellen
- Google Chrome:
- Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner.
- Ga naar "Instellingen".
- Scroll naar beneden en klik op "Geavanceerd".
- Scroll further down and click on “Reset settings.”
- Bevestig door op "Reset" te klikken.
- Mozilla Firefox:
- Click on the three lines in the upper-right corner.
- Go to “Help” and select “Troubleshooting Information.”
- Klik op "Firefox vernieuwen".
- Bevestig dit door nogmaals op "Firefox vernieuwen" te klikken.
- Internet Explorer:
- Click on the gear icon in the upper-right corner.
- Select “Internet options.”
- Go to the “Advanced” tab and click on “Reset.”
- Check “Delete personal settings” and click “Reset.”
- Microsoft Edge:
- Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner.
- Ga naar "Instellingen".
- Click on “Reset settings” and select “Restore settings to their default values.”
- Bevestig door op "Reset" te klikken.
Step 4: Use Anti-Malware Tools
- Download and install a reputable anti-malware tool such as Malwarebytes or AdwCleaner.
- Run a full system scan to detect and remove any remaining traces of iStartSurf.
- Follow the software’s instructions to quarantine and delete detected threats.
Preventing iStartSurf Installation in the Future
Veilig surfen
- Avoid downloading software from untrusted or suspicious websites.
- Always opt for custom installation and deselect any additional software that you do not recognize or need.
- Be cautious of email attachments and links from unknown sources.
Software up-to-date houden
- Regularly update your operating system, browsers, and other software to the latest versions.
- Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure you receive security patches promptly.
Use Security Tools
- Install and maintain reliable antivirus and anti-malware programs.
- Enable real-time protection features to prevent infections.
- Consider using a secure browser extension that blocks malicious websites and ads.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove iStartSurf from your system and safeguard your computer against future infections.