Remove www-mysearch.com (Browser Hijacker)

www-mysearch.com is a browser hijacker, a type of malicious software that modifies web browser settings without user consent. It often changes the default homepage, search engine, and new tab page to its own site, leading to unwanted redirects, intrusive ads, and potential privacy issues. Users may notice a significant slowdown in their browser performance and increased pop-up ads. This hijacker can find its way into your system through bundled software, malicious email attachments, or infected websites.

How to Remove www-mysearch.com

Manual Removal Steps

  1. Uninstall Suspicious Programs
    • Windows
      1. Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
      2. Look for any suspicious or unknown programs in the list.
      3. Select the program and click Uninstall.
    • Mac
      1. Open Finder and go to Applications.
      2. Search for any suspicious or unknown applications.
      3. Right-click on the application and select Move to Trash. Empty the Trash.
  2. Remove Extensions from Browsers
    • Google Chrome
      1. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and go to More tools > Extensions.
      2. Look for any unfamiliar extensions and click Remove.
    • Mozilla Firefox
      1. Click on the three horizontal lines in the top right corner and select Add-ons.
      2. Go to Extensions and remove any suspicious ones.
    • Safari
      1. Open Safari and go to Preferences.
      2. Click on the Extensions tab and uninstall any unknown extensions.
  3. Reset Browser Settings
    • Google Chrome
      1. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and go to Settings.
      2. Scroll down and click on Advanced.
      3. Under Reset and clean up, select Restore settings to their original defaults.
    • Mozilla Firefox
      1. Click on the three horizontal lines in the top right corner and select Help.
      2. Choose Troubleshooting Information.
      3. Click Refresh Firefox.
    • Safari
      1. Open Safari and go to Preferences.
      2. Click on the Privacy tab and select Manage Website Data.
      3. Remove all website data.

Using Anti-Malware Software

  1. Download and Install a Reputable Anti-Malware Tool
    • Tools like Malwarebytes, HitmanPro, or Spybot Search & Destroy can effectively scan and remove browser hijackers.
  2. Run a Full System Scan
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to run a comprehensive scan of your system.
  3. Remove Detected Threats
    • After the scan, review the detected items and proceed to remove all threats.

How to Prevent www-mysearch.com in the Future

Be Cautious with Downloads

  • Avoid Bundled Software: Always choose the custom installation option when downloading software and deselect any additional programs that are not necessary.
  • Download from Official Sources: Stick to official websites or trusted sources for downloading software.

Use Security Software

  • Install Antivirus Software: Ensure you have a reputable antivirus program installed and keep it updated.
  • Enable Real-Time Protection: Use real-time protection features to prevent malicious software from being installed.

Practice Safe Browsing

  • Don’t Click on Suspicious Links: Be wary of clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or unsolicited emails.
  • Update Your Browser and Plugins: Keep your web browser and its plugins up to date to protect against vulnerabilities.

Regularly Check Browser Settings

  • Review Homepage and Search Engine Settings: Periodically check your browser settings to ensure they haven’t been altered without your knowledge.
  • Monitor Installed Extensions: Regularly review the extensions and add-ons installed in your browser to ensure they are necessary and trustworthy.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove www-mysearch.com from your system and protect yourself from future browser hijacker infections.