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When I click any of the displayed items in a list from google (or any search engine) it goes to different sites seemingly at random.

Keying in the http address works fine.

Any ideas please?

Sorry. I think I'm in the wrong forum.

Now posted in 'Virues, Spyware and other Nasties'

Edited by Member #690194 because: Wrong forum
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  • Latest Post Latest Post by twiss

Dani AI

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As noted, clicking a search-result link that lands on unrelated sites is a classic redirect/hijack symptom. Since has moved this to the malware forum, treat it as a possible adware/browser hijacker — but don’t assume a single cause. The problem can be caused by a malicious browser extension, an altered hosts file, a proxy/DNS setting changed on the PC, or DNS/router-level hijacking that affects every device on the network. Narrow it down first: try the same search on a different browser and on another device on the same network. If all devices show the same redirects, the router or DNS is the likely culprit; if only one PC does, it’s probably local malware or a bad extension.

Basic triage and cleanup (in this order) that most people can follow:

  1. Disable all browser extensions and test again, or use a fresh/incognito profile.
  2. Check for proxy settings: Internet Options -> Connections -> LAN settings (no proxy unless you set one).
  3. Inspect the hosts file at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts for unfamiliar entries (back it up before editing).
  4. Flush DNS and reset Winsock with:
    ipconfig /flushdns
netsh winsock reset
  5. Run a full scan with a reputable anti-malware tool such as Malwarebytes (https://www.malwarebytes.com/) and then the Microsoft Safety Scanner (https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/threat-protection/intelligence/safety-scanner-download). Also consider AdwCleaner for adware (https://www.malwarebytes.com/adwcleaner).

If the redirects appear on multiple devices, log into the router, check the DNS entries, change the admin password, update firmware, and, if needed, restore factory defaults and reconfigure DNS to a trusted server (ISP or 1.1.1.1/8.8.8.8). If cleaning tools and resets don’t fix it, boot to Safe Mode with Networking and re-scan, or consider a system restore/fresh reinstall. Be cautious editing system files and router settings; back up configs first.

Member Avatar for twiss

For reference, that thread is here.

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