Frequent tab in start menu showing ad links caused by a virus?


  1. Posts : 165
    Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit
       #1

    Frequent tab in start menu showing ad links caused by a virus?


    These appear each time I start up the pc and when I click them the site doesn't work.

    I never visited these sites anyway in my life!

    But how do get rid of them other then hitting "remove from list" each time. :)

    Last edited by Brink; 10 Aug 2014 at 10:19. Reason: embedded image
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 71,977
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #2

    Hello Matt,

    I would recommend to not click on them anymore since they look to be advertising and possible malware.

    I would also recommend to do a full scan of your system with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free just to be safe.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 165
    Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit
    Thread Starter
       #3

    It found nothing, the scan. So what else can I do?
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 4,566
    Windows 10 Pro
       #4

    Max Pen said:
    It found nothing, the scan. So what else can I do?
    What antivirus software do you use?


    The first thing I want you to do is reset Internet explorer. The instructions can be found here: (make sure to delete personal settings)

    Internet Explorer - Reset



    Please read this entirely before we begin malware removal:


    Before we start with malware assistance, I want to inform you of a few things:

    1.) I am not a recognized malware removal expert. I do not have a certification from a malware removal school. Having said that, I have removed a lot of malware with PCs and have years of experience.
    But just like no antivirus program is 100% effective, neither am I. My goal is to simply clean up your PC from any malware, and assist you in any way possible to help you secure your PC.

    2.) Sevenforums (This forum)and I will NOT be held responsible for anything that might go wrong with your pc.

    3.) You agree to follow all directions given, until I advise that your pc is clean and you are free of threats. You will not abandon the thread.


    The most important rule of all:

    4.) YOU WILL NOT INSTALL/change/modify OR ADD ANYTHING TO YOUR SYSTEM UNTIL MALWARE REMOVAL IS COMPLETE. No files or programs or anything of the sort.

    Do you agree to these terms?

    If yes, reply with a Yes. If not, please state so and I will flag an official malware remover, or I will recommend another place for malware removal assistance.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 165
    Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit
    Thread Starter
       #5

    I used Malwarebytes but that reset on IE did the trick, so thank you both for your help!
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 71,977
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #6

    Great news. That means that one of your installed add-ons or toolbars in IE is most likely the cause.

    Internet Explorer - Enable or Disable Toolbars and Extensions Add-ons
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 4,566
    Windows 10 Pro
       #7

    @max pen,

    Glad it was resolved.

    I still suggest we look into scanning your pc for malware with additional tools. But it's your pc.
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 71,977
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #8

    Agreed. I'd also recommend what Andrew posted above to scan your PC to be extra safe.
      My Computer


 

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