How to remove MyStartSearch.com search redirect (with Pictures)

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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Mystartsearch.com is a browser hijacker that is bundled with other free software that you download off of the Internet. When installed this browser hijacker it will set the homepage and search engine for your web browser to http://www.mystartsearch.com.

This itself is not considered malicious as there are many legitimate programs that change these settings as well. What is considered malicious, though, is that it will also append the argument http://www.mystartsearch.com to random Windows shortcuts on your desktop and your Windows Start Menu.
Mystartsearch.com hijack

Mystartsearch.com virus

The Mystartsearch.com browser hijacker is commonly bundled with other free programs that you download off of the Internet. Unfortunately, some free downloads do not adequately disclose that other software will also be installed and you may find that you have installed Mystartsearch.com without your knowledge.

When the Mystartsearch.com browser hijacker is installed on a PC, common symptoms include:

  • Changing the web browser’s default homepage to Mystartsearch.com
  • Changing the browser’s search provider, built-in search box to Mystartsearch.com
  • Ability to modify the ‘new tab’ functionality to launch the modified search portal page
  • Loads into the web browser via an extension or add-on
  • Web Browser shortcuts are hijacked to redirect to www.mystartsearch.com
You should always pay attention when installing software because often, a software installer includes optional installs, such as this Mystartsearch.com browser hijacker. Be very careful what you agree to install.
Always opt for the custom installation and deselect anything that is not familiar, especially optional software that you never wanted to download and install in the first place. It goes without saying that you should not install software that you don’t trust.
The below instructions are for Windows users, however we also have an Android guide and a Mac OS guide which should help clean up your device.

How to remove Mystartsearch.com Redirect (Removal Guide)

This malware removal guide may appear overwhelming due to the amount of the steps and numerous programs that are being used. We have only written it this way to provide clear, detailed, and easy to understand instructions that anyone can use to remove malware for free.
Please perform all the steps in the correct order. If you have any questions or doubt at any point, STOP and ask for our assistance.
To remove the Mystartsearch.com Adware, follow these steps:

STEP 1: Uninstall MyStartSearch from Windows

In this first step, we will try to identify and remove any malicious program that might be installed on your PC.

  1. Go to the uninstall menu.

    Windows 10 or Windows 8.1

    1. To uninstall a program on Windows 10 or Windows 8, right-click on the Windows Start button and choose “Control Panel” from the pop-up menu.
      Control Panel in Windows 10
    2. When the “Control Panel” window opens click on the “Uninstall a program” option under “Programs” category.
      Uninstall A Program on Windows 10

    Windows 7

    1. If you are using Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7, click the “Start” button, then click on the “Control Panel” menu option.
      [Image: Control Panel in Windows Start Menu]
    2. When the “Control Panel” window opens click on the “Uninstall a program” option under “Programs” category.
      [Image: Uninstall a program]
  2. When the “Programs and Features” screen is displayed, scroll through the list of currently installed programs and uninstall “MyStartSearch_uninstaller“.
    The malicious program may have a different name on your computer. To view the most recently installed programs, you can click on the “Installed On” column to sort your program by the installation date. Scroll through the list, and uninstall any unwanted or unknown programs.

    If you cannot find any unwanted programs on your computer, you can proceed with the next step.

    If you are having issues while trying to uninstall a program, you can use Revo Uninstaller to completely remove this unwanted program from your machine.

    Uninstall MyStartSearch

STEP 2: Use Zemana AntiMalware Portable to remove Mystartsearch.com redirect

Zemana AntiMalware Portable is a free malware scanner which can detect malicious programs that your antivirus has failed to find.

  1. You can download Zemana AntiMalware Portable from the below link:
    ZEMANA ANTIMALWARE PORTABLE DOWNLOAD LINK (This link open a new web page from where you can download “Zemana AntiMalware Portable”)
  2. Double-click on the file named “Zemana.AntiMalware.Portable” to perform a system scan with Zemana AntiMalware.
    Zemana AntiMalware portable
    You may be presented with an User Account Control pop-up asking if you want to allow Zemana to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
    Zemana AntiMalware User Account Control
  3. When Zemana AntiMalware will start, click on the “Scan” button to perform a system scan.
    Zemana AntiMalware Free Scan
  4. Zemana AntiMalware will now scan your computer for malicious programs. This process can take up to 10 minutes.
    Zemana AntiMalware scanning for virus
  5. When Zemana has finished finished scanning it will show a screen that displays any malware that has been detected. To remove all the malicious files, click on the “Next” button.
    Zemana AntiMalware Removing forwindownet.com Virus
    Zemana AntiMalware will now start to remove all the malicious programs from your computer.

STEP 3: Use Malwarebytes to scan for Adware and Browser Hijackers

Malwarebytes is a powerful on-demand scanner which will remove the Mystartsearch.com redirect from your PC. It is important to note that Malwarebytes will run alongside antivirus software without conflicts.

  1. You can download download Malwarebytes from the below link.
    MALWAREBYTES DOWNLOAD LINK (This link open a new page from where you can download “Malwarebytes”)
  2. When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the “mb3-setup-consumer” file to install Malwarebytes on your computer.
    Malwarebytes installer
    You may be presented with an User Account Control pop-up asking if you want to allow Malwarebytes to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
    Malwarebytes User Account Control Prompt
  3. When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through the installation process.
    Setup Malwarebytes installer
    To install Malwarebytes on your machine, keep following the prompts by clicking the “Next” button.
    Completing the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard
  4. Once installed, Malwarebytes will automatically start and update the antivirus database. To start a system scan you can click on the “Scan Now” button.
    Perform a system scan with Malwarebytes
  5. Malwarebytes will now start scanning your computer for malicious programs.
    This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
    Malwarebytes scanning for malware
  6. When the scan has completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected.
    To remove the malicious programs that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine Selected” button.
    Malwarebytes Quarantine Selected
  7. Malwarebytes will now quarantine all the malicious files and registry keys that it has found.
    To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
    Malwarebytes removing malware from computer
    When the malware removal process is complete, you can close Malwarebytes and continue with the rest of the instructions.

STEP 4: Double-check for malicious programs with HitmanPro

HitmanPro finds and removes malware, adware, bots, and other threats that even the best antivirus suite can oftentimes miss. It’s designed to run alongside your antivirus suite, firewall, and other security tools.

  1. You can download HitmanPro from the below link:
    HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a new web page from where you can download “HitmanPro”)
  2. When HitmanPro has finished downloading, double-click on the “hitmanpro” file to install this program on your computer.
    HitmanPro icon
    You may be presented with an User Account Control pop-up asking if you want to allow HitmanPro to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
    HitmanPro User Account Control Pop-up
  3. When the program starts you will be presented with the start screen as shown below. Now click on the Next button to continue with the scan process.
    HitmanPro setup process
  4. HitmanPro will now begin to scan your computer for malware.
    HitmanPro scanning for Mystartsearch.com virus
  5. When it has finished it will display a list of all the malware that the program found as shown in the image below. Click on the “Next” button, to remove malware.
    HitmanPro detected malware
  6. Click on the “Activate free license” button to begin the free 30 days trial, and remove all the malicious files from your computer.
    Activate HitmanPro to remove malware
    When the process is complete, you can close HitmanPro and continue with the rest of the instructions.

(Optional) STEP 5: Reset your browser to the default settings

If you are still experiencing issues with the Mystartsearch.com redirect in Internet Explorer, Firefox or Chrome, we will need to reset your browser to its default settings.
This step needs to be performed only if your issues have not been solved by the previous steps.

Google Chrome

Google Chrome has an option that will reset itself to its default settings. Resetting your browser settings will reset the unwanted changes caused by installing other programs. However, your saved bookmarks and passwords will not be cleared or changed.

  1. Click on Chrome’s main menu button, represented by three horizontal lines. When the drop-down menu appears, select the option labeled Settings.
    Google Chrome Settings menu
  2. Chrome’s Settings should now be displayed in a new tab or window, depending on your configuration. Next, scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the Advanced link (as seen in the below example).
    Click on Chrome Advanced button
  3. Chrome’s advanced Settings should now be displayed. Scroll down until the Reset browser settings section is visible, as shown in the example below. Next, click on the Reset settings button.
    Google Chrome Reset button
  4. A confirmation dialog should now be displayed, detailing the components that will be restored to their default state should you continue on with the reset process. To complete the restoration process, click on the Reset button.
    Restore Google Chrome to default settings

Internet Explorer

You can reset Internet Explorer settings to return them to the state they were in when Internet Explorer was first installed on your PC.

  1. Open Internet Explorer, click on the “gear icon” IE Icon Gear in the upper right part of your browser, then click again on Internet Options.
    [Image: Internet Options in Internet Explorer]
  2. In the “Internet Options” dialog box, click on the “Advanced” tab, then click on the “Reset” button.
    [Image: Reset Internet Explorer]
  3. In the “Reset Internet Explorer settings” section, select the “Delete personal settings” check box, then click on “Reset” button.
    [Image: Reset Internet Explorer to its default settings]
  4. When Internet Explorer has completed its task, click on the “Close” button in the confirmation dialogue box. You will now  need to close your browser, and then you can open Internet Explorer again.
    [Image Reset Internet Explorer settings]

Mozilla Firefox

If you’re having problems with Firefox, resetting it can help. The reset feature fixes many issues by restoring Firefox to its factory default state while saving your essential information like bookmarks, passwords, web form auto-fill information, browsing history and open tabs.

  1. In the upper-right corner of the Firefox window, click the Firefox menu button ([Image: Firefox Menu button]), then click on the “Help” ([Image: Firefox Help button]) button.
    Firefox Help button
  2. From the Help menu, choose Troubleshooting Information.
    If you’re unable to access the Help menu, type about:support in your address bar to bring up the Troubleshooting information page.
    Troubleshooting Information in Firefox
  3. Click the “Refresh Firefox” button in the upper-right corner of the “Troubleshooting Information” page.
    Refresh Firefox button
  4. To continue, click on the “Refresh Firefox” button in the new confirmation window that opens.
    Reset Firefox settings to default
  5. Firefox will close itself and will revert to its default settings. When it’s done, a window will list the information that was imported. Click on the “Finish“.
Your old Firefox profile will be placed on your desktop in a folder named “Old Firefox Data“. If the reset didn’t fix your problem you can restore some of the information not saved by copying files to the new profile that was created. If you don’t need this folder any longer, you should delete it as it contains sensitive information.
Your web browser should now be free of the Mystartsearch.com browser hijacker.
If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove Mystartsearch.com redirect from your PC, please do one of the following:

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

29 thoughts on “How to remove MyStartSearch.com search redirect (with Pictures)”

  6. thanks a lot man, so far it work fine until step4,really appreciate u & ur gifted mind :). after restart, i run again as recommended 59 threats detected & when i open new tab, fast start appear at my FX but not at IE, is it the “siblings” of the mystartsearch?? is the malware still dangling in my lappy?

  8. i havent do all the step yet but when ever i open google chrome and left itself for a minute and its close by it self.. do you know how i can stopp this from happening

  9. Thanks a lot for this. I was able to take down a malware, which I was trying to remove badly using so many ways. Really helped me a lot. Cheers!!

  10. You are a genius, man. I’ve followed so many guides and this was the only one that did the trick. Thank you so much. More power! :)

  11. Just want to say respect for u man!Thumbs up for sharing this.This motherfucker got removed from chrome by resetting it.Now after so many months i got it again and now also in Mozilla.But after installing ADware Removal it took me just seconds to get it out.This works people!100% sure.I will share this everywhere!Thumbs up bro!

  12. Thanks Stelian many thanks

    I fixed it alone , I think the block program security

    Thanks again for your work and support

  13. Hello Stratis,
    Lets try to fix your PC:
    1.Please download ZOEK by Smeenk and save it to your desktop (preferred version is the *.exe one) from here: http://hijackthis.nl/smeenk/

    2. Right-click on Zoek icon and select “Run as Administrator” to start the tool.
    Wait patiently until the main console will appear, it may take a minute or two.
    3. In the main box please paste in the following script (between the lines):
    —————————————————–
    createsrpoint;
    autoclean;
    emptyalltemp;
    ipconfig /flushdns;b
    ——————————————————-
    4.Make sure that Scan All Users option is checked.
    5. Push Run Script and wait patiently. The scan may take a couple of minutes.
    When this program will finish the clean-up it will ask you to restart your computer.

    Let me know if this fixed your issue or not!

  17. Hello Theo,
    Lets try to fix your PC:
    1.Please download ZOEK by Smeenk and save it to your desktop (preferred version is the *.exe one) from here: http://hijackthis.nl/smeenk/

    2. Right-click on Zoek icon and select “Run as Administrator” to start the tool.
    Wait patiently until the main console will appear, it may take a minute or two.
    3. In the main box please paste in the following script (between the lines):
    —————————————————–
    createsrpoint;
    autoclean;
    emptyalltemp;
    ipconfig /flushdns;b
    ——————————————————-
    4.Make sure that Scan All Users option is checked.
    5. Push Run Script and wait patiently. The scan may take a couple of minutes.
    When this program will finish the clean-up it will ask you to restart your computer.

    Let me know if this fixed your issue or not!

  19. After wasted days trying to sort it myself, I followed your instructions and my daughter’s machine is now good for school again (and she no longer downloads free games!). Took some time but well worth it. Thank you so much!

  20. Amazing. I have spent 6 hours today trying to get rid of that pesky mystartsearch and everything i tried and every other thread i followed failed. Then i spent 1 hour following your instructions exactly and my pc is now clean and shiny again. thank you, will make my donation now

  23. Thanks. Your tips to remove them from the properties shortcut works ( can’t find the malware on my control panel and already reset the browser, but didn’t help)

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