Forum Discussion

Roy_Lynne's avatar
Roy_Lynne
Explorer
Jul 31, 2016

Adware removal

Brand spankin new computer and somehow I have already gotten infected with adware (social2search) I purchased adware removal and there was McAfree already preloaded, but neither has been able to remove it. I was told to go to my control panel, but I couldn't find it listed. I finally found it listed as an app, but deleting that app hasn't done much. Social2search has a page but the directions and the download they provide are both bogus.
Someone once told me that I could go back to the way the computer was when I bought it and that would eliminate it but I don't know the correct nomenclature to find how to do it.
I know this doesn't have anything to do with RVs but I'm appealing to my fellow RVers for help. Thanks
I have Windows 10.
  • VE3ESN's avatar
    VE3ESN
    Explorer
    Aug 02, 2016
    bill-e wrote:
    Big Bruce wrote:
    try malwarebytes anti-malware.


    Yep, it is the best.

    https://www.malwarebytes.com/


    X2....and just a suggestion that the free version of Malwarebytes is entirely adequate. I obtained my copy via filehippo.com.
  • fj12ryder's avatar
    fj12ryder
    Explorer III
    Jul 31, 2016
    More and more places are adding in programs and adware surreptitiously when you download/install software. Many times the install is listed, but in such a way that you simply don't notice it.
  • Roy_Lynne's avatar
    Roy_Lynne
    Explorer
    Jul 31, 2016
    Thank you all. I ran them all and finally, cross my fingers, I think its gone. Its no wonder I couldn't find it as it was called something else when I finally removed it. My next step was going to take it to the local geek and pay money so you saved me a bundle.

    Thanks again.
    The only thing that I had downloaded was a program from HP and I"m going to give them a piece of my mind
  • 1492's avatar
    1492
    Moderator
    Jul 31, 2016
    Back at my PC. Not a great texter on smartphones.

    You can try System Restore, though note that it was not designed to be a system snapshot. So doesn't store all previous install info. Primarily key system file info, such as the Registry.

    I'd avoid using WIN10 Reset at this stage as it's more of a drastic solution. Plus, are you certain that this adaware was not included with your new system - such as crapware? Or did you notice this adaware after you installed a new app?

    My usual recommendations are to download and run both the free AdwCleaner and JRT (Junk Removal Tool) apps, which you can get from Bleeping Computers, and don't require installation. Follow up with a Malwarebytes Free scan. These have proven to be very effective in removing most all adaware, junkware, and browser based exploits.
  • fj12ryder's avatar
    fj12ryder
    Explorer III
    Jul 31, 2016
    Most antivirus programs don't do much against spyware/adware. Malwarebytes is your best bet usually.
  • 1492's avatar
    1492
    Moderator
    Jul 31, 2016
    You're in the right forum for RV.NET. Doesn't need to be related rvs.

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