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Solved hao123 adware bugging issue

Discussion in 'Malware and Virus Removal Archive' started by scgoh123, 2015/11/12.

  1. 2015/11/14
    scgoh123

    scgoh123 Well-Known Member Thread Starter

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    As of TFC, after cleaning, the computer says that Start Menu and Cortana has critical error and PC needs to be restarted. After restarting, I cant find the logfile anymore.
    Sophos also found no threats.
     
    Last edited: 2015/11/15
  2. 2015/11/15
    broni

    broni Moderator Malware Analyst

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    Update Firefox to the current version.

    =================================

    Your computer is clean [​IMG]

    1. This step will remove all cleaning tools we used, it'll reset restore points (so you won't get reinfected by accidentally using some older restore point) and it'll make some other minor adjustments...
    This is a very crucial step so make sure you don't skip it.
    Download [​IMG]DelFix by Xplode to your desktop. Delfix will delete all the used tools and logfiles.

    Double-click Delfix.exe to start the tool.
    Make sure the following items are checked:
    • Activate UAC (optional; some users prefer to keep it off)
    • Remove disinfection tools
    • Create registry backup
    • Purge System Restore
    • Reset system settings
    Now click "Run" and wait patiently.
    Once finished a logfile will be created. You don't have to attach it to your next reply.

    2. Make sure Windows Updates are current.

    3. If any trojans, rootkits or bootkits were listed among your infection(s), make sure, you change all of your on-line important passwords (bank account(s), secured web sites, etc.) immediately!

    4. Check if your browser plugins are up to date.
    Firefox - https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/plugincheck/
    other browsers: https://browsercheck.qualys.com/ (click on "Scan without installing plugin" and then on "Scan now ")

    5. Download, and install WOT (Web OF Trust): http://www.mywot.com/. It'll warn you (in most cases) about dangerous web sites.

    6. Run Malwarebytes "Quick scan" once in a while to assure safety of your computer.

    7. Run Temporary File Cleaner (TFC), AdwCleaner and Junkware Removal Tool (JRT) weekly (you need to redownload these tools since they were removed by DelFix).

    8. Download and install Secunia Personal Software Inspector (PSI): http://secunia.com/vulnerability_scanning/personal/. The Secunia PSI is a FREE security tool designed to detect vulnerable and out-dated programs and plug-ins which expose your PC to attacks. Run it weekly.

    9. (optional) If you want to keep all your programs up to date, download and install FileHippo Update Checker.
    The Update Checker will scan your computer for installed software, check the versions and then send this information to FileHippo.com to see if there are any newer releases.

    10. When installing\updating ANY program, make sure you always select "Custom " installation, so you can UN-check any possible "drive-by-install" (foistware), like toolbars etc., which may try to install along with the legitimate program. Do NOT click "Next" button without looking at any given page.

    11. Read:
    How did I get infected?, With steps so it does not happen again!: http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/topic2520.html
    Simple and easy ways to keep your computer safe and secure on the Internet: http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/tutorials/keep-your-computer-safe-online/
    About those Toolbars and Add-ons - Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) which change your browser settings: http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/for...curity-questions-best-practices/#entry3187642

    12. Please, let me know, how your computer is doing.
     

  3. to hide this advert.

  4. 2015/11/18
    scgoh123

    scgoh123 Well-Known Member Thread Starter

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    Thanks broni.
    Actually after you've said that 'my computer is clean', I was like shocked, because the homepage of Google Chrome is still hao123.qquu8.cn, even though in Settings it still shows google.com

    After I've reinstalled Google Chrome, everything was fine till now.

    Actually what has happened to my laptop?
     
  5. 2015/11/18
    broni

    broni Moderator Malware Analyst

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    It looks like typical browser hijacking.
    Sometimes resetting/reinstalling browser is necessary.

    Good luck and stay safe :)
     
  6. 2015/11/19
    scgoh123

    scgoh123 Well-Known Member Thread Starter

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    Wait, broni!
    Today when I opened my laptop, browser hijacking happened AGAIN!
    The homepage SHOWED hao123.qquu8.cn AGAIN!!
    AGHHHHHH!
     
  7. 2015/11/19
    scgoh123

    scgoh123 Well-Known Member Thread Starter

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    [​IMG]
     
  8. 2015/11/19
    broni

    broni Moderator Malware Analyst

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    Is this in Chrome?
     
  9. 2015/11/19
    scgoh123

    scgoh123 Well-Known Member Thread Starter

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    Yes, besides that, Microsoft Edge with its homepage to hao123.qquu8.cn is shown AGAIN.
     
  10. 2015/11/19
    broni

    broni Moderator Malware Analyst

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    Let's try to reset your router.

    Turn the computer off.

    On your router, you'll find a pinhole marked "Reset ".
    Keep pushing the hole, using a pencil, or a paperclip until all lights briefly come off and on.
    NOTE. Simple router disconnecting from a power source will NOT do.
    Restart computer.

    NOTE. You may need to re-check your router security settings, as described HERE

    Then...

    Reset Chrome...
    Click on "Customize and control Google Chrome ":
    [​IMG]
    Click "Settings" then "Show advanced settings" at the bottom of the screen.
    Click "Reset browser settings" button.
    Restart Chrome.

    If the above didn't help....

    Reinstall Chrome...
    If you want to save your bookmarks...
    How to Backup Bookmarks in Google Chrome
    If you want to save your passwords as well see here: http://www.intowindows.com/how-to-backup-saved-passwords-in-google-chrome-browser/
    • Close all Chrome windows and tabs.
    • Go to the Start menu > Control Panel. (Windows 8 users: Learn how to access the Control Panel)
    • Click Programs and Features.
    • Double-click Google Chrome.
    • Click Uninstall from the confirmation dialog. Delete your user profile information, like your browser preferences, bookmarks, and history, by selecting the "Also delete your browsing data" checkbox.
    Install fresh copy.
     

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