Remove "Ads Not By This Site" Pop-up Ads (Virus Removal Guide)

If your web browser is randomly being redirected to the “Ads not by this site” advertisements then your computer is infected with an adware program.

The “Ads not by this site” adware program is bundled with other free software 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 adware without your knowledge.

Once this malicious program is installed, whenever you will browse the Internet, an ad from Ads not by this site will randomly pop-up.
These ads are aimed to promote the installation of additional questionable content including web browser toolbars, optimization utilities and other products, all so the adware publisher can generate pay-per-click revenue.

When infected with the “Ads not by this site” adware, other common symptoms include:

Advertising banners are injected with the web pages that you are visiting.
Random web page text is turned into hyperlinks.
Browser popups appear which recommend fake updates or other software.
Other unwanted adware programs might get installed without the user’s knowledge.

You should always pay attention when installing software because often, a software installer includes optional installs, such as this Ads not by this site adware. 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 Ads not by this site pop-ups (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 Ads not by this site pop-ups, follow these steps:
STEP 1: Uninstall malicious programs from Windows
STEP 2: Use AdwCleaner to remove “Ads not by this site” adware
STEP 3: Scan and clean your computer with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
STEP 4: Double-check for malicious programs with HitmanPro
(OPTIONAL) STEP 5: Reset your browser to default settings

STEP 1 : Uninstall malicious programs from Windows

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

Go to the uninstall menu.
Windows 10 or Windows 8
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.
2. When the “Control Panel” window opens click on the “Uninstall a program” option under “Programs” category.
Windows 7 or Windows Vista
1. If you are using Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7, click the “Start” button, then click on the “Control Panel” menu option.
2. When the “Control Panel” window opens click on the “Uninstall a program” option under “Programs” category.
When the “Programs and Features” screen is displayed, scroll through the list of currently installed programs and uninstall any unwanted programs.
Known malicious programs: Dns Unlocker, Cinema Plus, Price Minus, SalesPlus, New Player, MediaVideosPlayers, Browsers_Apps_Pro, PriceLEess, Pic Enhance, Sm23mS, Salus, Network System Driver, SS8, Save Daily Deals, Word Proser, Desktop Temperature Monitor, CloudScout Parental Control, Savefier, Savepass, HostSecurePlugin, CheckMeUp and HD-V2.2.

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.

STEP 2: Use AdwCleaner to “Ads not by this site” remove adware

Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is a free utility that will scan your computer for “Ads not by this site” adware and other malicious programs that may be installed.

You can download Malwarebytes AdwCleaner from the below link.
MALWAREBYTES ADWCLEANER DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will start the download of “Malwarebytes AdwCleaner” on your computer)
When Malwarebytes AdwCleaner has finished downloading, please double-click on the AdwCleaner icon to perform a system scan with this program.

If Windows prompts you as to whether or not you wish to run Malwarebytes AdwCleaner, please allow it to run.
When the Malwarebytes AdwCleaner program will open, click on the “Scan” button as shown below.

Malwarebytes AdwCleaner will now start to search for the Ads not by this site adware and other malicious programs.
To remove the malicious files that were detected in the previous step, please click on the “Clean” button.
Malwarebytes AdwCleaner will prompt you to save any open files or documents, as the program will need to reboot the computer to complete the cleaning process. Please do so, and then click on the “OK” button.

When your computer reboots and you are logged in, Malwarebytes AdwCleaner will automatically open a log file that contains the files, registry keys, and programs that were removed from your computer. Please review this log file and then close the notepad window. You can now continue with the rest of the instructions.

STEP 2: Scan and clean your computer with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is a powerful on-demand scanner which should remove the Ads not by this site pop-ups from your machine. It is important to note that Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will run alongside antivirus software without conflicts.

You can download download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware from the below link.
MALWAREBYTES ANTI-MALWARE DOWNLOAD LINK (This link open a new page from where you can download “Malwarebytes Anti-Malware”)
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the “mb3-setup-consumer” file to install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware on your computer.

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.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through the installation process.

To install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware on your machine, keep following the prompts by clicking the “Next” button.
Once installed, Malwarebytes will automatically start and update the antivirus database. To start a system scan you can click on the “Scan Now” button.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 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.
When the scan has completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes Anti-Malware has detected.
To remove the malicious programs that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine Selected” button.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 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.

When the malware removal process is complete, you can close Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 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.

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”)
When HitmanPro has finished downloading, double-click on the “hitmanpro” file to install this program on your computer.

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.
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 will now begin to scan your computer for malware.
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.
Click on the “Activate free license” button to begin the free 30 days trial, and remove all the malicious files from your computer.

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 Ads not by this site pop-ups 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 Ads not by this site pop-ups, 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.

Click on Chrome’s main menu button, represented by three horizontal lines. When the drop-down menu appears, select the option labeled Settings.
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).
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.
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.

Internet Explorer

To remove Ads not by this site pop-ups, you can reset Internet Explorer settings to return them to the state they were in when Internet Explorer was first installed on your PC.

Open Internet Explorer, click on the “gear icon” in the upper right part of your browser, then click again on Internet Options.
In the “Internet Options” dialog box, click on the “Advanced” tab, then click on the “Reset” button.
In the “Reset Internet Explorer settings” section, select the “Delete personal settings” check box, then click on “Reset” button.
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.

Mozilla Firefox

If you’re having problems with the Ads not by this site pop-ups within 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.

In the upper-right corner of the Firefox window, click the Firefox menu button, then click on the “Help” button.
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.
Click the “Refresh Firefox” button in the upper-right corner of the “Troubleshooting Information” page.
To continue, click on the “Refresh Firefox” button in the new confirmation window that opens.
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 Ads not by this site pop-ups. You can remove AdwCleaner from your computer, however we recommend that you keep Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and HitmanPro installed to periodically scan your device for malware.
If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove Ads not by this site adware from your computer, please do one of the following:

Run a system scan with Zemana AntiMalware
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.

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

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

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.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.

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

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.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.

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

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

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

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.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.

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

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.

174 thoughts on “Remove “Ads not by this site” pop-up ads (Virus Removal Guide)”

Thomas

February 25, 2014 at 05:29

Thank you so much!!! Step 1 did the trick for me! This was really easy!!!!
THANK YOU AGAIN!!!!!!
Thornybastard

February 24, 2014 at 17:59

This didn’t work for me. I followed the instructions meticulously. The optional step 5 in my version of FF (27.0.1) did not have a reset button in the troubleshooting guide. I can say it worked partially since I get less offensive adds now, but the pop-ups are still coming on many but not all pages (not on Facebook or any Google sites) and now not on this site either. But it’s still trying to redirect and failing. I still get the redirect on some pages and of course when that happens you can’t hit the back button because it loses the page I was trying to go to. I keep MalwareByte anti-malware running now too.

One of the redirects I see flashing at the bottom of the FF screen is for shopping-guide-onlines.com. Yes it has the “s” at the end. I also see lookup.bluecava.com. According to Disconnect I’m getting 94 advertising requests (not on this page).

Oddly, none of the scans with any of the software in 1-4 found anything from Ads not from this site. They all found stuff. But some of it has been on my HD for years.

I attached a screen cap of the popup from the lower left corner of the screen. Note how it’s transparent, but you can still see the red close icon with white x. Occasionally a visible ad will appear. In this case the text on the webpage is visible without the ad running in the window. also attached is the Jumba ad from the higher on the page.

One more note: I think I got hit by the java or flash update ploy Curlygirly in DC below mentions.

Any ideas? Thanks.
- Stelian Pilici
  
  February 24, 2014 at 18:10
  
  Hello,
  You have run both AdwCleaner and Junkware Removal tool right? Lets see what extension you have installed:
  1. At the top of the Firefox window, click on the Firefox button, and then click Add-ons. The Add-ons Manager tab will open.
  2.In the Add-ons Manager tab, select the Extensions or Appearance panel.
  3. Let me know which extensions you have installed.
  - Thornybastard
    
    February 24, 2014 at 18:18
    
    Extensions:
    AVG Privacy Fix
    Better Privacy
    Disconnect
    Download Helper
    Flash player 11
    https everywhere
    lightbeam
    MaskMe
    QQ Mail plugin for FF
    Skype click to call
    Tencent storage plug-in
    Adblock plus (disabled)
    DoNoTrackMe (disabled)
    Real downloader (disabled)
    
    Appearance:
    Night before Christmas
    Default (disabled)
    Homestyle Christmas (disabled) (yeah, i know, xmas is over)
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    February 24, 2014 at 18:39
    
    Hello,
    You have a few extension that I know about, but you also have a few that I have not seen.
    Can you please try to disable your extensions one-by-one, then see if the issues is fixed, so that we may see which one is causing these ads.
  - Thornybastard
    
    February 24, 2014 at 18:20
    
    And yes, I ran everything exactly like the instructions said and in the same order. Adwcleaner, Junkware, etc Everything. Should I keep FF closed while running everything?
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    February 24, 2014 at 18:36
    
    Hello,
    Yes, your browser should be closed when running these tools.
  - Thornybastard
    
    February 24, 2014 at 18:38
    
    Aha! let me try it again.
ANGEL

February 21, 2014 at 22:11

Thank you so much this worked great and your instructions were very easy to follow.
Thank You, Angel
Stelian Pilici

February 2, 2014 at 13:32

Hello,
I would not recommend a tool that I would not personal use. You can search reviews for it, basically is a tool that is used by IT professional to easily remove unwanted programs. :)
GreenDev_99

January 28, 2014 at 06:29

thanks alot for these instructions. It works !
Ryan Pilcher

January 28, 2014 at 06:23

Thanks alot for the guide worked really well, I don’t even know how it got on my computer but the first program u suggested got rid of it.
CurlyGirlyinDC

January 27, 2014 at 09:34

I consider myself pretty tech savvy and can’t remember the last time I ever had a virus. This thing sucker punched me when I thought I was allowing Java or Adobe update. The pop-ups were beyond obnoxious and I couldn’t click on anything without being overcome by the ads. Your article was easy to follow and seems to have resolved the issue. I could never have done this on my own. I’m sharing it with my friends and colleagues and will be making a donation as you saved me hours of headaches. Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!
Fafe

January 23, 2014 at 17:36

This has been most helpful. You rock! Thanks!
Stelian Pilici

January 6, 2014 at 05:30

Hello,
It’s a nasty browser hijacker, you can follow this guide to remove it: http://malwaretips.com/blogs/nation-zoom-removal/

Stay safe!
Lets

January 2, 2014 at 05:15

Thank you so very much extremely helpful!
Elvis k

January 2, 2014 at 01:40

Thanks man really helped me out keep up the good work.
Flora

December 30, 2013 at 07:50

Thank you Stelian! It was very helpful
amanda valdez

December 26, 2013 at 00:39

Thank you soo much, it was so helpful
SomeFatGuy

December 23, 2013 at 07:32

Thank you! D:
Brian

December 22, 2013 at 19:57

mine was called YoutubeAdBlocker you should include this in the article
Deb

December 21, 2013 at 10:17

excellent piece of article!! This did of course solve my problem, however the hitman pro dunno why couldn’t delete the malicious files it had detected in the course of its scanning. Rest all seems perfectly poised to make this bunch of software a highly useful package.. Thanks once again!
prasenjit saha

December 19, 2013 at 09:10

the information here is priceless…
Wally

December 17, 2013 at 14:34

You have no idea about how helpful this article is . You are basically a life saver . Thank you very much for the priceless advice …
Brian Smith

December 17, 2013 at 11:00

I didn’t install and programs before getting these ads, in fact, I started getting them at work where the only program I installed in the past year was Chrome. I believe the issue for me was one of the extensions. I removed all of them and the ads stopped.
Kerrie

December 13, 2013 at 02:00

thanks :-)