Resolving Browser Redirects on Startup: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve ever encountered a troubling issue where your browser automatically opens to a suspicious site upon starting your computer, you’re not alone. I recently faced this exact problem, where a Command Prompt window would flicker briefly, followed by my browser redirecting to “ururgisha[.]net.” Fortunately, I was able to resolve it, and I’d like to share the steps I took to tackle this challenge.
Step 1: Investigate the Windows Registry for Startup Entries
The first step in rectifying the issue was to check the Windows Registry. Here’s how I did it:
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Accessed the Registry Editor
I opened the Run dialog by pressingWin + R, typedregedit, and pressed Enter. -
Navigated to the Relevant Registry Key
I proceeded to the path:HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run. -
Identified Suspicious Entries
There, I discovered an entry with a name corresponding to my user profile, which pointed to a command line that executed a strange URL:
cmd.exe /c start www[.]dongdonger[.]org. -
Removed the Entry
I right-clicked on the entry and selected Delete to eliminate it.
Step 2: Check Task Scheduler for Unwanted Tasks
Next, I turned my attention to the Task Scheduler, as potential tasks could also trigger the unwanted behavior. Here’s how I went about it:
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Opened Task Scheduler
I launched the Run dialog again withWin + R, typedtaskschd.msc, and pressed Enter. -
Explored Task Scheduler Library
Within the Task Scheduler, I navigated to the “Task Scheduler Library.” -
Searched for Anomalies
I reviewed the tasks and identified one associated with my user name. -
Reviewed Task Properties
After right-clicking the suspicious task and selecting Properties, I discovered it was set to run the same command (cmd.exe /c start www[.]dongdonger[.]org). -
Deleted the Task
I removed this unwanted task by right-clicking and selecting Delete.
Step 3: Restart the Computer
After completing the cleanup process, it was time to restart
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Hi,
It looks like you’ve thoroughly investigated common vectors for browser redirects initiated by malicious entries in the Windows Registry and Task Scheduler. To further enhance your cleanup, consider running a reputable anti-malware or antivirus scan to detect and remove any residual malware that might not be evident through manual inspection. Also, ensure your browser and system are fully updated to patch any known vulnerabilities.
Additionally, check your browser for suspicious extensions or add-ons that could reintroduce the redirect. Resetting your browser settings to default can sometimes resolve persistent redirect issues. Consider using tools like Malwarebytes or AdwCleaner for comprehensive malware removal.
If the issue persists even after these steps, you might want to review your network settings and consider changing your DNS servers to more secure options such as Google DNS (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1). This can help prevent DNS hijacking.
Stay vigilant, and feel free to reach out if you need further assistance!