Remove NationZoom browser hijacker (Chrome, Firefox, IE and Edge)

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Written by: Stelian

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NationZoom 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://nationzoom.com/.

NationZoom redirect virus
NationZoom 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 NationZoom without your knowledge.

You should always pay attention when installing software because often, a software installer includes optional installs, such as this NationZoom 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 NationZoom redirect (Virus 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 NationZoom redirect, follow these steps:

STEP 1: Use Zemana AntiMalware Portable to remove NationZoom redirect

Zemana AntiMalware Portable is a free utility that will scan your computer for the NationZoom browser hijacker and other malicious programs.

  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 Free.
    Zemana AntiMalware portable
    You may be presented with a User Account Control dialog asking you if you want to run this program. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to allow Zemana AntiMalware to run.
    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 NationZoom Virus
    Zemana AntiMalware will now start to remove all the malicious programs from your computer. When the process is complete, you can close Zemana AntiMalware and continue with the rest of the instructions.

STEP 2: Scan and clean your computer with Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes is a powerful on-demand scanner which should remove the NationZoom redirect from your machine. It is important to note that Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 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 3: Double-check for malicious programs with HitmanPro

HitmanPro can find and remove malware, adware, bots, and other threats that even the best antivirus suite can oftentimes miss. HitmanPro is 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 NationZoom 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 4: Reset your browser to default settings

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

Google Chrome

To remove NationZoom, 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 programmes. 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 button
  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 Show advanced settings link (as seen in the below example).
    Google Chrome Advanced Settings
  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 browser 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.
    Reset Google Chrome settings

Internet Explorer

To remove NationZoom, 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” 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 the NationZoom browser hijacker while using 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, 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 computer should now be free of the NationZoom redirect. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove NationZoom redirect from your machine, you can ask for help in our Malware Removal Assistance forum.

10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams

Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.

  1. Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.

    warning sign

    Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).

    If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.

  2. Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.

    updates guide

    Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.

    If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.

  3. Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.

    shield guide

    Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.

    If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.

  4. Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.

    install guide

    Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.

    If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.

  5. Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.

    cursor sign

    Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.

    If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.

  6. Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.

    trojan horse

    Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.

    If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.

  7. Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.

    lock sign

    Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.

    If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.

  8. Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).

    lock sign

    Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.

    If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.

  9. Back up important files and keep one backup offline.

    backup sign

    Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.

    If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.

  10. If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.

    warning sign

    Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.

    • Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
    • Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
    • Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
    • Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
    • Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
    • Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
    • Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.

These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.

68 thoughts on “Remove NationZoom browser hijacker (Chrome, Firefox, IE and Edge)”

  2. Thanks for this – really helpful. A couple of notes:

    1) When changing the ‘Target’ in the Properties of each browser, I eventually realised that I had changed the setting on the shortcut rather than the program itself, so what I did was remove all shortcuts (desktop icons, icons pinned to Start Menu, etc) and then edit the Target in the actual program, then re-create the shortcuts.

    2) I also noticed a Microsoft C++ thing that had been downloaded at the same time as the other things. As this was apparently from a reliable source I didn’t remove it. But then it seemed that Nation Zoom kept coming back to IE… so I deleted the C++ thing and it seemed to help. Maybe it was an executable?

    Anyway, your info here is really detailed and extremely helpful – thanks very much!
    Lee

  5. Thank you! Thank you so much!!!! I hated seeing that awful nation zoom page….thank you!!!!!!! The ADW Cleaner did the trick. I had tried so many other programs including malware bytes but they did not stop it from changing from my home page. LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE you!!!!

    • Hello,
      Please pay attention to STEP 3 as this infection will hijack your browser shortcuts!!
      Can you please right-click on your browser shortcut and copy/paste the content of the Target box, so that I may see what’s going on.
      Stay safe!

    • Hello,
      Please pay attention to STEP 3 as this infection will hijack your browser shortcuts!!
      Can you please right-click on your browser shortcut and copy/paste the content of the Target box, so that I may see what’s going on.
      Stay safe!

  11. Thank you very much for your help! One question: are steps 5 and 6 necessary or optional in removing the nationzone?

  12. Thank you so much for the wonderful help! My computer no longer has the “Nation Zoom virus.” :)

  13. What if you are SYSTEMLY unable to complete the steps, you have a WINDOWS 8 pc and the properties have no indication of nation zoom.. AND you cant download all the virus removers, and you’re a 13 year old child who’s crying and afraid if her dad finds out she’ll get yelled at and he won’t be able to fix you hundreds of dollars worth touchscreen pc… and you’re crying desperately trying to fix this.

    • Hello Adri,
      First off all, stay calm… This is not as bad as it looks. I will help you clean this infection.

      Lets try these steps:
      Can you please run a scan with Combofix and post the logs here so that I can get an idea on what’s going on:

      You can download ComboFix from here: http://download.bleepingcomputer.com/sUBs/ComboFix.exe

      VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download.ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop

      Close any open browsers.

      Very Important!!!> Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection before performing a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.

      WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts

      Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.

      If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.

      1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.

      2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks

      3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.

      Notes:

      Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.

      Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.

      If after the reboot you get errors about programs being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.

      Please post the Combofix, so that I can get an idea on what’s going on.

      STEP 3: Please take a look at STEP 3 from this guide…. And copy/paste here the content of the Target field from your browser shortcut.

      Send me all the AdwCleaner and Junkware log, and the content of the Target field from your browser shortcut.

      Stay safe!

  14. Thank you! I tried 2-3 other websites and wasn’t successful in removing Nation Zoom. Your blog page walked me through several steps the others didn’t. I’m happy to say my computer is healthy again!!!

  15. hi my search engine (explore) still make nation zoom my home page. help. I have followed all the steps.

    • Hello,
      Please pay attention to STEP 3 as this infection will hijack your browser shortcuts!!
      Can you please right-click on your Internet Explorer shortcut and copy/paste the content of the Target box, so that I may see what’s going on.
      Stay safe!

  16. Muchas gracias por la ayuda por un momento creí que podría eliminar esta porquería pero resulta que cometí un error al parecer elimine Windows Update y me pide este componente para utilizar adwcleaner no sé que hacer estoy desesperada por deshacer este virus, help me please!

  20. Thank you so much for the help. I am a student w/o my parents to financially support me and this was an excellent resource to the Nation Zoom virus I ran into. I really like the manual approach to fixing problems and this was exactly what I was looking for. After hours of worrying, I can now be at peace knowing my personal info is safe. Thank you Stelian Pilici and all those who make this website possible. With the donation I could afford, I hope that you’re greatly appreciated.

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