Keeping Your Devices Clean

If you’re getting redirected from your homepage or seeing pop-up ads, unwanted toolbars, or strange Google search results, your computer may have malware. Malware is software designed to damage and take control of your computer.

Signs you might have malware

If you have malware on your computer, you may see these symptoms:
Pop-up ads
Unwanted toolbars
Inappropriate Google search results or ads
Being redirected from a site you’re trying to visit, like your homepage or Google
Seeing a search engine that looks like Google, but with an unfamiliar URL or logo
Getting results from the wrong search engine

Remove malware from your computer or browser

Check your computer for programs you don’t recognize, and uninstall them.
Some examples of programs to uninstall:

BrowserProtect
Desk 365
Dosearches Browser Protector
DProtect
eSave Security Control
Extended Protection
Nation Zoom browser protection
New Tabs Uninstall
Omiga plus
Wysys Control

If you’re using Chrome or Firefox, use the browser reset feature to undo the changes you see and get your settings back to normal. If you’re using another browser, use antivirus software to detect and remove malware from your computer.

Prevent your computer from getting malware in the future
Tip 1: Keep your browser and operating system up to date.
Most operating systems will let you know you when it’s time to upgrade – don’t ignore these messages. Old versions of software can sometimes have security problems that criminals can use to easily get to your data.

Tip 2: Keep an eye on what you click and download.
Without meaning to, you may click a link that installs malware on your computer. To keep your computer safe, only click links and downloads from sites that you trust. Don’t open any unknown file types, or download programs from pop-ups that appear in your browser. Also pay attention to the fine print details and any auto-checked checkboxes when downloading. Make sure that you understand what programs are being installed