multiple internet browser windows open automatically

[jnukem]

Hello,

I am running Windows 7 Prof x64. Recently, I have had a problem with multiple (sometimes 100+) internet browsers opening up automatically. This will happen even when I am not online. I have tried Firefox, Chrome and IE; all have the same problem. I have searched for malware, spyware, viruses and have come up clean. Ultimately, last night, I did a fresh install of Windows but as soon as I booted up for the 1st time the problem persisted! Can anyone help?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Lemur]

Did you do a clean install?

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1649-clean-install-windows-7-a.html

 

[stve]

I'm guessing its one browser with multiple windows when you open a new link it opens in a new window instead of a tab?

For IE look in Tools > Internet options >General >Tabs >Settings & Enable Tabbed browsing.

 

[jnukem]

Did you do a clean install?

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1649-clean-install-windows-7-a.html

Yes, I did a clean install.

 

[jnukem]

I'm guessing its one browser with multiple windows when you open a new link it opens in a new window instead of a tab?

For IE look in Tools > Internet options >General >Tabs >Settings & Enable Tabbed browsing.

I use Chrome, however, the same problem arises with IE and Firefox, so it is not the browser type. It has nothing to do with opening a link. I can be working "offline" in Excel (for example) and suddenly 100+ browser windows will pop up and tile down my screen. When I "close all" they instantly come back.

 

[UsernameIssues]

Have you tried a tool like Process Monitor (Process Monitor) to see what program is making the offending calls for browsers?
You can set the filter to: PID - is not - 0 - include.
That should monitor the programs that are running.
Then maybe limit the returns to network activity.

 

[A Guy]

Welcome to Seven Forums jnukem. This is sounding like some sort of malware infection. Suggest download and run the free Malwarebytes. I'd also suggest seeing what is listed in your startup.

Start> In search box type msconfig and press enter

Click on the startup tab and take a screen shot (if many, take one, then scroll down and take another), then post them here.

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/9733-screenshots-files-upload-post-seven-forums.html

A Guy

 

[jnukem]

I downloaded and ran Malwarebytes. There were no problems detected. Attached is a screen shot of my startup programs...

FYI, this problem persists even when I start up in Safe mode (with networking).

Thanks so much for your help!

 

[flashdrives]

I had the same problem before. It is caused by a spyware. Just perform a complete system scan. But first update your anti virus with the latest virus definitions. I'll recommend Avira Personal. It cleanse such problem. That's what I have done before and solved the problem but I don't know if it will work in your system.