Fix IE Hijacked by StartPage — Download the Removal Tool and Clean Your Browser

Fix IE Hijacked by StartPage — Download the Removal Tool and Clean Your Browser

If Internet Explorer has been hijacked by StartPage (browser redirects, changed homepage/search, or unwanted toolbars), follow this step‑by‑step guide to remove the hijacker, restore IE settings, and prevent reinfection.

What “hijacked by StartPage” looks like

• Homepage/search changed: StartPage appears when you open IE or perform searches.
• Unwanted toolbars or extensions in Internet Explorer.
• Frequent redirects to unfamiliar sites.
• Slower browser performance or pop‑up ads.

Before you begin

• Backup important data (bookmarks/IE favorites exported to a file).
• Disconnect from sensitive accounts (optional) while cleaning.
• Use another browser if IE is unusable.

Step 1 — Download the StartPage removal tool

1. Use a trusted computer or browser to search for “StartPage removal tool for Internet Explorer” and download from a reputable security vendor or the developer’s official page.
2. Verify the download source and file hash if available.
3. Save the installer to your desktop.

Step 2 — Run the removal tool

1. Right‑click the downloaded file and choose Run as administrator.
2. Follow on‑screen prompts — allow the tool to scan your system and remove detected items.
3. Restart your computer if the tool requests it.

Step 3 — Manually check and reset Internet Explorer

1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. Click the gear icon → Internet options.
   • Under General, set your preferred homepage and click Apply.
   • Under Programs, click Manage add‑ons and disable any unknown or StartPage‑related extensions.
   • Under Advanced, click Reset to restore IE defaults (check Delete personal settings if you want a full reset).
3. Restart IE and confirm homepage/search behavior is back to normal.

Step 4 — Remove leftover files and registry entries

(Only perform registry edits if comfortable; back up registry first.)

1. Open File Explorer and check these locations for suspicious folders/files and delete them:
   • C:\Program Files</li>
   • C:\Program Files (x86)</li>
   • C:\Users\AppData\Local</li>
   • C:\Users\AppData\Roaming</li>
2. Open Registry Editor (regedit) and search for keys mentioning “StartPage” or other suspect names — delete matching keys only. Reboot after changes.

Step 5 — Scan with reputable anti‑malware tools

1. Install and update a trusted anti‑malware scanner (examples: Malwarebytes, ESET Online Scanner, Microsoft Defender).
2. Perform a full system scan and remove any detections.
3. Reboot and run a second quick scan to confirm.

Step 6 — Restore browser data and secure your system

• Reimport favorites if you exported them earlier.
• Change passwords for sensitive accounts if you noticed suspicious activity.
• Update Windows and Internet Explorer to the latest security patches.
• Install an ad‑blocker and avoid downloading unknown toolbars or freeware bundles.

Prevention tips

• Download software only from official sites.
• During installs, choose Custom and uncheck bundled offers.
• Keep OS and browser updated.
• Use a modern, supported browser for better security.

When to seek help

• If StartPage returns after cleaning, or you’re uncomfortable editing system files, contact a professional technician or a reputable malware removal service.

If you want, I can provide a short checklist you can print and follow during cleanup.