Nectar Toolbar is a Browser addon for Internet Explorer developed by AIMIA Coalition Loyalty. This addon changed your default search provider to Yahoo UK. While installed, you might see additional unwanted ads and sponsored links injected in the search results.

From the Author: We all search the web every day for information from handy how-to’s, must know news about shopping. So wouldn’t it be great if you could collect extra Nectar points just for doing something you do already? Like to shop online? Nectar Search will also tell you when you’re on a shopping website (like Argos, Debenhams, Next, Play.com, and Apple) where you can collect points too.

Several anti-virus scanners have marked this addon as a Browser Hijacker and are therefore not recommended to keep on your computer.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijacking means a malicious program code has power over and modified the settings of your browser, without your permission. Browser hijackers could do more than just changing home pages. In general, hijackers are developed for the benefit of online hackers often through income generation that comes from forced ad mouse clicks and website visits. Nonetheless, it isn’t that harmless. Your web safety is compromised and it is also really annoying. In a much worst case, your browser could be hijacked to download malicious software that will do a great deal of damage to your computer.

Key symptoms that your browser has been hijacked

When your browser is hi-jacked, the following can happen: you notice unauthorized changes to your internet browser’s homepage; you observe new unwanted favorites or bookmarks added, usually directed to advertisement-filled or porn websites; the default browser configurations have been changed and/or your default web engine is altered; unwanted new toolbars are added to your internet browser; you might notice numerous pop-up adverts on your computer screen; your browser has instability issues or exhibits frequent errors; You can’t access particular websites, especially anti-malware websites.

Exactly how they invade computers

A browser hijacker can be installed on your computer or laptop when you go to an infected site, click on an e-mail attachment, or download something from a file-sharing site. Many internet browser hijackings originate from add-on programs, i.e., browser helper objects (BHO), toolbars, or plug-ins added to browsers to provide them additional features. Other times you might have accidentally accepted a browser hijacker as part of a software bundle (generally freeware or shareware). Popular examples of browser hijackers include CoolWebSearch, Conduit, OneWebSearch, Coupon Server, RocketTab, Delta Search, Searchult.com, and Snap.do. Browser hijacking can bring about serious privacy problems and even identity theft, affect your web browsing experience by taking control over outgoing traffic, drastically slows down your computer or laptop by depleting lots of resources, and lead to system instability also.

Browser hijacker removal methods

Some browser hijacking can be easily stopped by identifying and eliminating the corresponding malware software from your control panel. However, most hijackers are quite tenacious and require specialized applications to get rid of them. Moreover, browser hijackers could modify the Windows registry so it can be extremely tough to fix manually, particularly when you are not a tech-savvy person. Browser hijackers can be effectively removed by installing and running an anti-malware application on the affected computer. To get rid of any browser hijacker out of your computer, you could download this particular top-notch malware removal application – SafeBytes Anti-Malware. Together with anti-malware, a PC optimizer software, similar to Total System Care, could help you correct Windows registry errors, remove unwanted toolbars, secure your internet privacy, and stabilize programs installed on your computer.

Find Out How To Install Safebytes Anti-Malware On An Infected Computer system

All malware is bad and the consequences of the damage will vary based on the specific type of malicious software. Certain malware goes to great lengths to stop you from downloading or installing anything on your computer system, particularly anti-virus programs. If you are reading this, you probably have infected by a virus that stops you from installing a security program like Safebytes Anti-Malware. Follow the instructions below to remove malware through alternative methods.

Install in Safe Mode with Networking

Safe Mode is a unique, simplified version of Windows where just essential services are loaded to counteract malware and other problematic programs from loading. In case the malicious software is set to load immediately when the PC boots, switching to this mode could prevent it from doing so. To boot into Safe Mode, hit “F8” key on the keyboard right before Windows logo screen appears; Or right after normal Windows boot up, run MSCONFIG, look over Safe Boot under Boot tab, and then click Apply. Once you are in Safe Mode, you can try to install your anti-malware application without the hindrance of the malware. After installation, run the malware scanner to eliminate standard infections.

Download the anti-malware program in a different internet browser

Some malware only targets particular internet browsers. If this is your case, employ another browser as it might circumvent the computer virus. In case you suspect that your Internet Explorer happens to be hijacked by a computer virus or otherwise compromised by online hackers, the most effective course of action is to switch over to a different web browser such as Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, or Apple Safari to download your favorite security application – Safebytes Anti-Malware.

Make a bootable USB anti-virus drive

Another solution is to save and run an anti-malware software program entirely from a Thumb drive. To run antivirus from a thumb drive, follow these simple steps: 1) On a clean computer, install Safebytes Anti-Malware. 2) Plug the USB drive into the clean computer. 3) Double-click the Setup icon of the anti-malware software to run the Installation Wizard. 4) Select the drive letter of the pen drive as the location when the wizard asks you where you would like to install the anti-virus. Follow the onscreen instructions to finish the installation. 5) Now, insert the USB drive into the corrupted PC. 6) Run the Safebytes Anti-malware directly from the pen drive by double-clicking the icon. 7) Simply click “Scan Now” to run a complete scan on the affected computer for malware.

SafeBytes Anti-Malware Features

To protect your laptop or computer from various internet-based threats, it’s important to install anti-malware software on your personal computer. However, with countless numbers antimalware companies out there, these days it is hard to decide which one you should buy for your laptop. Some of them do a great job in eliminating malware threats while some will damage your PC by themselves. You must be careful not to pick the wrong product, especially if you buy a paid application. On the list of strongly recommended software by industry leaders is SafeBytes Anti-Malware, the most dependable program for Microsoft Windows. SafeBytes anti-malware is a trustworthy tool that not only secures your PC permanently but is also quite user-friendly for people of all skill levels. Once you’ve got installed this application, SafeByte's sophisticated protection system will ensure that no viruses or malware can seep through your PC.

SafeBytes anti-malware provides an array of enhanced features that sets it aside from all others. Some of them are listed as below:

Real-Time Protection: SafeBytes gives you round-the-clock protection for your PC limiting malware intrusions in real-time. This utility will constantly monitor your computer for suspicious activity and updates itself continuously to keep abreast of the constantly changing threat landscape. Most effective AntiMalware Protection: Built on a greatly acclaimed anti-virus engine, this malware removal application can find and get rid of numerous stubborn malware threats such as browser hijackers, potentially unwanted programs, and ransomware that other common anti-virus applications will miss. Website Filtering: Safebytes allots all websites a unique safety score that helps you to have an idea of whether the webpage you’re just about to visit is safe to browse or known to be a phishing site. Fast Multi-threaded Scanning: Safebytes Anti-Malware, with its advanced scanning engine, offers extremely fast scanning which can promptly target any active online threat. Low CPU/Memory Usage: SafeBytes is well known for its low influence on processing power and great detection rate of various threats. It operates silently and efficiently in the background so you’re free to utilize your PC at full power all of the time. 24/7 Customer Service: For any technical concerns or product assistance, you could get 24/7 professional assistance through chat and email. Put simply, SafeBytes has created a meaningful anti-malware solution that is aimed to protect you against all manner of malware. You now may understand that this particular software does more than just scan and eliminate threats from your PC. So if you’re searching for the absolute best malware removal application out there, and when you don’t mind shelling out a few bucks for it, opt for SafeBytes Anti-Malware.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

To eliminate Nectar Toolbar manually, go to the Add or Remove programs list in the Windows Control Panel and choose the program you want to remove. For browser extensions, go to your web browser’s Addon/Extension manager and select the add-on you want to remove or disable. You’ll probably also want to reset your internet browser to its default settings. Finally, check your hard disk for all of the following and clean your computer registry manually to get rid of leftover application entries after uninstallation. But bear in mind, this can be a tough task and only computer professionals can perform safely. In addition, certain malicious programs have the capability to defend against its removal. Completing this task in Safe Mode is suggested.

There has been recently discovered in the field of malware targeting Android devices. Affecting more than 10 million users of Android phones, the malware GriftHorse is doing its attacks via phishing and premium services scams. A lot of applications have been discovered that are hosts for this malware and many of them are inside the Google store and available for download. According to Zimperium zLabs, this malware that was recently detected has been doing its scams and attacks even in November of 2020 and has thus far accumulated hundreds of thousands of dollars in its scam. On the surface it looks very harmless, asking for typical permissions like internet access, calls, and other related needed functions, and then it waits. After few months the real attack happens when users get charged with premium service they never subscribed to in the first place.

List of Infected Applications that Carry GriftHorse Trojan

Zimperium zLabs listed out some of the apps with this malware. Users are advised to avoid installing them.

•     Amazing Video Editor
•     Bag X-Ray 100% Scanner
•     Bus – Metrolis 2021
•     Call Recoder Pro
•     Call Blocker-Spam Call Blocker
•     Cinema Hall: Free HD Movies
•     Coupons & Gifts: InstaShop
•     GPS Phone Tracker – Family Locator
•     Fingerprint Changer
•     Fitness Point
•     Free Calls WorldWide
•     Geospot: GPS Location Tracker
•     GPS Phone Tracker – Family Locator
•     Handy Translator Pro
•     Horoscope : Fortune
•     iCare – Find Location
•     iConnected Tracker
•     Instant Speech Translation
•     Lifeel – scan and test
•     My Chat Translator
•     My Locator Plus
•     Plant Camera Identifier
•     Racers Car Driver
•     Safe Lock
•     Screen Mirroring TV Cast
•     Slime Simulator
•     Smart Spot Locator

These are only some of the many infected apps available on the internet. Zimperium zLabs also warned that GriftHorse Trojan exists in over 70 countries worldwide. The infected app quickly changes the language and displays content depending on the user’s IP address.

Microsoft just released Windows 11 ISo file, based on the latest Insider Preview Build 22000.132. Inside build, you can try all-new features like clock updated app, snip tool, and everything releases so far via various patches. You can also use Windows 11 ISO file to do a clean install on your computer, but if you go with this option all of your existing files will be deleted. Microsoft says it added the ability to name your PC during the setup experience. You’ll also get to experience the Get Started app that’s designed to help you get going on your new Windows 11 PC (even if it’s not actually a new one).

Download ISO

• Go to the Windows Insider Downloads page. You will need to sign in with a Microsoft account registered with the Insider Program.
• Scroll down to Select Edition and select the build you want to download. You will most likely want the one at the top from the developer channel, as this is where Windows 11 should arrive first. So far, only Windows 10 builds are available. Click confirm.
• Select your preferred language. Not all languages ​​available for Windows are compatible with the Insider program, so you may have to stop depending on where you are from.
• Click the download button and the ISO file will start downloading.
• This is definitely an easier method, but unfortunately, it is not available yet. We will update this article once Windows Insider ISOs are available. Later, once Windows 11 64 bit is available to everyone, you can also download the stable build of Windows 11 iso. Microsoft offers the Media Creation Tool and Upgrade Assistant, which usually do just that. It will be some time before Windows 11 versions of the tools are available, as the operating system is only getting closer to this holiday.

If you encounter the ERR_SSL_VERSION_INTERFERENCE error on your Google Chrome browser then this means that the browser is trying to load a website with SSL protocol but is not able to do so. This error can occur for many reasons and in this post, you will be given potential fixes that could help you in resolving the problem. But bear in mind that these potential fixes are not that straightforward forward so if you encounter an option you don’t understand much, just skip to the options you have the knowledge of. There is no direct fault in the browser for the ERR_SSL_VERSION_INTERFERENCE error as there are issues with caching the website data locally on your computer. Moreover, this kind of error can also appear when a website is coded incorrectly or if there are conflicting browser extensions installed in the browser that prevents the website to function properly. Refer to the suggestions given below to fix the ERR_SSL_VERSION_INTERFERENCE error in Chrome on Windows 10.

Option 1 – Try clearing browser data

There are times when some data in the browser is conflicting with the loading of the website and triggers errors like ERR_CACHE_MISS. And so you can try to clear your browser’s data. This might be a very basic solution but oftentimes it works in fixing this kind of error in Google Chrome. Follow the steps below to clear the data in your browser.

• Open your Google Chrome browser.
• After that, tap the Ctrl + H keys. Doing so will open a new panel that allows you to delete the browsing history and other data in your browser.
• Now select every checkbox that you see and click on the Clear browsing data button.
• Then restart your Chrome browser and check if you can now open any website or not.

Option 2 – Try disabling TSL 1.3

If clearing the browser data didn’t fix the problem, you can also try to disable TSL 1.3 in Chrome. To do so, refer to these steps:

• Open Google Chrome.
• Next, type in “chrome://flags/#tls13-variant” in the address bar and tap Enter.
• After that, you should see the experimental features page for Google Chrome where you can set TSL 1.3 to disabled.
• After disabling TSL 1.3, restart your computer and check if the problem is fixed or not.

Option 3 – Reset Winsock, TCP/IP & Flush DNS cache

Resetting Winsock, TCP/IP, and flushing DNS might help in resolving the ERR_SSL_VERSION_INTERFERENCE error just follow these steps:

• Right-click on the Start button and click on Command Prompt (administrator) so you can pull up an elevated Command Prompt.
• After that, execute each one of the commands listed below. And after you typed in one after the other, you have to hit Enter.

1. netsh winsock reset – type in this command to reset Winsock
2. netsh int ip reset resettcpip.txt – type in this command to reset TCP/IP
3. ipconfig /flushdns – type in this command to flush the DNS cache

• Next, restart your PC and check if the problem’s fixed.

Option 4 – Get rid of any conflicting browser extensions

• Open Chrome and press Alt + F keys.
• Go to More tools and click Extensions to look for any suspicious browser extensions or toolbars.
• Click the Recycle bin and select Remove.
• Restart Chrome and press Alt + F keys again.
• Proceed to On Startup and mark Open a specific page or set of pages.
• To check if the browser hijacker is still active, click Set pages, if it is active, overwrite the URL.

Option 5 – Reset Google Chrome

Resetting Chrome can also help you get rid of the error. Resetting Chrome will restore its default settings, disabling all the extensions, add-ons, and themes. Aside from that, the content settings will be reset as well and the cookies, cache, and site data will also be deleted. To reset Chrome, here’s what you have to do:

• Open Google Chrome, then tap the Alt + F keys.
• After that, click on Settings.
• Next, scroll down until you see the Advanced option, once you see it, click on it.
• After clicking the Advanced option, go to the “Restore and clean up option and click on the “Restore settings to their original defaults” option to reset Google Chrome.
• Now restart Google Chrome.

What is Error code 8007002c?

Users when upgrading to Windows 10 operating system from Windows 8/8.1 or Windows 7, often encounter error code 8007002c. This error occurs when there’s an attempt made in performing an overall clean boot procedure. During the installation process, it will reach a certain maximum limit, for instance, 75%, and then reverts to its original state. Sometimes, after installation, users will encounter a black screen issue and there is no cursor visible.

Solution

Error Causes

Misconfigured system files that create registry errors within your operating system normally cause error code 8007002c in Windows 10. This registry error happens when there are new programs being installed over old ones without the old programs uninstalled entirely. Another possible cause could be from some malicious software like spyware, adware, and viruses.

Further Information and Manual Repair

Caution: The following steps are complicated. The risk of being in a no-boot situation or data loss might be encountered. It would be best to be supervised by an experienced user, especially in using the command line.

In order to fix Error code 8007002c occurring in Windows 10 upgrade, you can follow this step-by-step manual repair method. Once the repair method is correctly executed, users will most likely quickly resolve issues such as the Error code 8007002c and be able to upgrade to Windows 10 operating system smoothly.

However, in such cases where there are complex instructions and thus need an expert, seek help from a Windows professional. You may also want to consider making use of an automated tool whenever needed.

There are several ways to fix Error code 8007002c, but here are the most effective and efficient methods:

Method One: Force Windows Update

 To be able to download and install the necessary updates, you may use the force Windows Update tool. See below for the steps:

1. Browse to C:\Windows\Software\Distribution\Download. Afterward, delete all the files found in that folder.
2. Press Windows key + X then click on the Command Prompt (Admin). Type exe /updatenow once the Command Prompt window appears then press Enter.
3. Open the Control Panel. Select Windows Update. At this point, Windows 10 should now start downloading.
4. Press again on Windows key + X to open the Command Prompt window. In the Command Prompt, Type or Copy and Paste the following commands one at a time:

NOTE: Don’t forget to hit Enter after every command.

 Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth

Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

5. Input a machine name for your computer. Make sure to use a simple name, having at least 8 characters.

Here’s how you can input a machine name:

• Click on Start and then right-click on Computer. Afterward, select For users with Windows 8 operating system, press on Windows key + X then click on System.
• Click on Change settings under the Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings.

Method Two: Diagnose RAM Issues

Another reason why Error code 8007002c occurs is when there’s a defective and wrongly installed memory chip. Try using the Windows Memory Diagnostic to diagnose if there are RAM Issues.

1. Press on the Windows Key + X then select
2. Type
3. Select Windows Memory Diagnostic, from that window, select Restart now, and check for problems

Method Three: Use Selective Startup

One more possible cause why Error code 8007002c occurs is due to third-party software. To fix this error, you can try booting up your device with Selective Startup -- a boot type where you can load a limited set of startups and services.

1. Open the System Configuration tool. On your Taskbar, type MSCONFIG in the Search Box then hit Enter.
2. Select the General
3. Select Selective startup option then tick on the Load system services
4. Ensure that Load startup items check box is unchecked.
5. Click Apply and

Can’t seem to put up with the long and technical manual repair process? You can still fix this error by downloading and installing a powerful automated tool that will surely get the job done in a jiffy!

The Makecab.exe process that’s running on your Windows 10 computer is a program that compresses the Component-Based Servicing log or CBS log files and they can get really huge if they’re not compressed. As a result, it would utilize important space on your operating system although makecab.exe does not consume high CPU resources in doing so. However, there are times when it recreates thousands of instances of itself and could cause overconsumption of system resources which slows down your computer. So when the makecab.exe process causes high CPU usage in your system, this could mean that there is a failed Windows Update. In addition, the high CPU usage of the makecab.exe process could also mean that your computer is infected with a virus or malware. Whichever the case is, you can check out several possible solutions that are given in this post to resolve the problem.

Option 1 – Try to delete log file using File Explorer

The CBS log files could reach up to 20GB size and so if you delete them, it would help in saving space in your computer and since they’re not much of use, deleting them won’t negatively affect the system at all. To delete the CBS log files, all you have to do is open the File Explorer and then go to C:/Windows/Logs/CBS and from there, open the CBS log files and delete them all. Doing so should ease the load in the makecab.exe process since it no longer has to compress the CBS log files. As a result, the process would be more relaxed. After that, you can restart your computer and check if the problem’s now fixed.

Option 2 – Try deleting the log file via Command Prompt

You can also try to delete the log files using an elevated Command Prompt. Refer to these steps to do so:

• Type “command prompt” in the Windows Search bar and then right-click on the related search result and select the “Run as administrator” option.
• Next, type the following command and hit Enter to execute it:

del /f %windir%logscbs*.log

• Restart your computer afterward once the command has been executed. This should end the high disk usage by makecab.exe, if not, proceed to the next given options below.

Option 3 – Uninstall any suspicious programs you’ve installed recently

If you have recently installed some programs on your Windows 10 computer, and since then you’ve experienced high CPU usage brought on by makecab.exe, then you might want to uninstall those programs.

• Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box
• Then type “appwiz.cpl” in the field and hit Enter to open the Programs and Features in Control Panel.
• From there, look for the suspicious programs you’ve installed, select them and then click on Uninstall to remove them.
• After that, restart your computer and try to install the latest version of the program again. It should work now. If not, proceed to the next available option below.

Option 4 – Try running Disk Cleanup

You might want to run the Disk Cleanup utility as it is a useful tool that could delete temporary and useless files on your computer.

• Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box and then type “cleanmgr” in the field and hit Enter to open the Disk Cleanup window.
• After that, select the drive you want to clean.
• Now click OK to clean the disk and restart your computer.

Option 5 – Try to run System File Checker scan

System File Checker or SFC is a built-in command utility that helps in restoring corrupted files and missing files. It replaces bad and corrupted system files to good system files. To run the SFC command, follow the steps given below.

• Tap Win + R to launch Run.
• Type in cmd in the field and tap Enter.
• After opening Command Prompt, type in sfc /scannow

The command will start a system scan which will take a few whiles before it finishes. Once it’s done, you could get the following results:

1. Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.
2. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them.
3. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.

• Restart your PC.

Option 6 – Try scanning your computer using Windows Defender

As mentioned, the high CPU usage of makecab.exe might be caused by some malware or virus in the system and so to eliminate it, you have to scan your computer using security programs like Windows Defender.

• Tap the Win + I keys to open Update & Security.
• Then click on the Windows Security option and open Windows Defender Security Center.
• Next, click on Virus & threat protection > Run a new advanced scan.
• Now make sure that Full Scan is selected from the menu and then click the Scan Now button to get started.

Windows Update Error 0x80071a91, what it is? As you know, Windows Updates are very essential to the operating system since they push with them the important security updates that are crucial to the system. And if a Windows Update is delayed, it can the system vulnerable to potential threats. Thus, this kind of issue must be resolved right away. One of the errors that you can encounter while updating your computer is the Windows Update Error 0x80071a91. The error code 0x80071a91 occurs when the “Transaction support within the specified file system resource manager is not started or was shut down due to an error”. This happens when a service called “File System Resource Manager” or FSRM does not function due to some reason. To fix the Windows Update Error 0x80071a91, here are some suggestions that could help.

Option 1 – Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Running the built-in Windows Update troubleshooter could also help you resolve the Windows Update Error 0x80071a91. To run it, go to Settings and then select Troubleshoot from the options. From there, click on Windows Update and then click the “Run the troubleshooter” button. After that, follow the next on-screen instructions and you should be good to go.

Option 2 – Disable the antivirus program temporarily

There are times when the antivirus program installed in your computer blocks file access and even disk access. Thus, disabling the antivirus program or any security software installed in your computer is always a good idea you can try when the Windows Update process does not go smoothly. So before you try updating your computer again, make sure to disable the antivirus or security program and once the Windows Update is done, don’t forget to enable the antivirus program back again.

Option 3 – Try resetting the File System Resource Manager

As pointed out earlier, the error 0x80071a91 pops up when the FSRM service suddenly stops working and so resetting this service via Command Prompt might resolve the problem. To do so, follow the steps below.

• In the Windows Search box, type “command prompt” and hit Enter.
• Then right-click on Command Prompt from the related search results and click the “Run as administrator” option.
• After opening Command Prompt as admin, type the following command and hit Enter:

resource setautoreset true C:

• After that, exit Command Prompt and restart your computer and then check if the problem’s fixed by running Windows Update again.

Option 4 – Flush the contents of the SoftwareDistribution folder

You have to stop a couple of services such as BITS, Cryptographic, MSI Installer, and Windows Update Services. And to do that, you need to flush the contents in the SoftwareDistribution folder. The Software Distribution folder in the Windows operating system is a folder that can be found in the Windows directory and is used to store files temporarily which might be required to install the Windows Update on your PC. Thus, it is required by the Windows Update and maintained by WUAgent. Aside from that, it also contains all the Windows Update History files and once you delete them, you will most likely lose the Update history. As a result, the next time you run the Windows Update, it may result in a longer detection time.

• Open the WinX Menu.
• From there, open Command Prompt as admin.
• Then type in the following command – don’t forget to hit Enter right after typing each one of them.

net stop wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver

• After entering these commands, it will stop the Windows Update Service, Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), Cryptographic, and the MSI Installer
• Next, go to the C:/Windows/SoftwareDistribution folder and get rid of all the folders and files thereby tapping the Ctrl + A keys to select them all and then click on Delete. Note that if the files are in use, you won’t be able to delete them.
• Once all the contents in the Software Distribution folder are deleted, restart your PC and then go back to Command Prompt and input the following commands again.

net start wuauserv net start bits

Option 5 – Delete the Common Log File System transaction logs

You might also want to delete the Common Log File System or CLFS transaction logs to fix the Windows Update Error 0x80071a91.

• Open an elevated Command Prompt.
• Then type each of the commands listed below and press Enter after you type each one of them.
  • cd /d %SystemRoot%System32SMIStoreMachine
  • attrib -s -h *
  • del *.blf
  • del *.regtrans-ms
• After you’ve executed the commands given above, restart your computer and try to update Windows 10 again.

MySearchDial is a browser hijacker that typically comes bundled with free software on the internet. This web platform designed for searching the internet and offers the installation of its software. This software injects itself into browsers and gains access to your settings, browsing data & user information. This data is distributed to the ad providers without limitation. While covered by their EULA, most users will be unaware of what they agree to with checkboxes selected by default. The software also adds a huge amount of registry keys and links throughout the operating system. Since the software injects itself into many personal files, removing the software results in a total reset of your browser settings. For these reasons MySearchDial is classified as potentially unwanted and is flagged for removal by a number of internet security utilities.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijacking is a common type of online fraud where your internet browser configuration settings are altered to allow it to carry out things you do not intend. Practically the majority of browser hijackers are created for marketing or advertising purposes. Usually, hijackers are designed for the benefit of online hackers usually through income generation that comes from forced ad clicks and website visits. Even though it may seem naive, these tools are designed by vicious individuals who always look to take full advantage of you, so that hackers can make money from your naive and distraction. Some browser hijackers are designed to make certain modifications beyond the browsers, like altering entries on the computer registry and letting other types of malware further damage your computer.

How you can know if your internet browser is hijacked

There are several symptoms that point to browser hijacking: 1. your browser’s home page has been reset to some unfamiliar website 2. your web browser is constantly being redirected to pornography websites 3. default online search engine is changed 4. discover new toolbars that you simply didn’t add 5. you observe lots of pop-ups on your computer screen 6. your internet browser has become unstable or starts running slowly 7. you’re blocked to access the websites of security solution providers.

So how exactly does a browser hijacker infect a PC

Browser hijackers can enter a computer in some way or other, including via file sharing, downloads, and e-mail also. They could also come from add-on applications, also called browser helper objects (BHO), web browser extensions, or toolbars. Other times you may have inadvertently accepted a browser hijacker as part of an application package (generally freeware or shareware). Examples of popular browser hijackers are Fireball, Ask Toolbar, GoSave, CoolWebSearch, Babylon Toolbar, and RocketTab. The existence of any browser hijacker malware on your system might significantly diminish the web browsing experience, track your internet activities that lead to severe privacy concerns, degrade overall system efficiency, and lead to software instability as well.

Getting rid of browser hijackers

Some hijackers could be removed by deleting the free software they were included with or by removing any add-ons you have recently added to your computer system. But, most hijackers are hard to remove manually. Regardless of how much you attempt to get rid of it, it can return over and over again. On top of that, manual removal needs you to execute many time-consuming and complicated actions which are very difficult to carry out for rookie computer users.

Can't Install Safebytes Anti-malware because of a Virus? Do This!

All malware is bad and the effects of the damage could differ based on the specific type of malicious software. Certain malware types alter web browser settings by adding a proxy server or change the PC’s DNS configurations. When this happens, you’ll be unable to visit certain or all sites, and therefore not able to download or install the required security software to remove the malware. If you’re reading this now, you may have probably recognized that virus infection is the reason for your blocked web traffic. So what do if you need to download and install an antivirus application like Safebytes? Although this kind of problem can be difficult to circumvent, there are a few actions you can take.

Install the anti-virus in Safe Mode

If the malware is set to run at Windows startup, then booting in Safe Mode should prevent it. Only minimal required programs and services are loaded when you start your computer or laptop in Safe Mode. To launch your Windows XP, Vista, or 7 PCs in Safe Mode with Networking, do as instructed below. 1) Press the F8 key repeatedly as soon as your computer boots, but before the big Windows logo or black screen with white texts shows up. This will bring up the Advanced Boot Options menu. 2) Use the arrow keys to choose Safe Mode with Networking and press ENTER. 3) Once you get into this mode, you should have access to the internet once again. Now, get the virus removal application you need by using the internet browser. To install the application, follow the guidelines in the installation wizard. 4) As soon as the application is installed, let the scan run to remove viruses and other malware automatically.

Utilize an alternate web browser to download an anti-malware program

Malicious program code might exploit vulnerabilities on a specific internet browser and block access to all anti-virus software websites. If you appear to have a virus attached to Internet Explorer, then switch over to an alternate browser with built-in security features, such as Chrome or Firefox, to download your favorite anti-malware program – Safebytes.

Run antivirus from a pen drive

Another approach is to download and transfer antivirus software from a clean computer to run a virus scan on the affected system. Abide by these steps to run the anti-virus on the affected computer system. 1) Make use of another virus-free computer to download Safebytes Anti-Malware. 2) Plug the Flash drive into the clean computer. 3) Run the setup program by double-clicking the executable file of the downloaded software, with a .exe file extension. 4) When asked, select the location of the USB drive as the place where you would like to store the software files. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the installation. 5) Transfer the USB drive from the clean computer to the infected computer. 6) Double click the Safebytes Anti-malware icon on the thumb drive to run the application. 7) Click on the “Scan Now” button to start the virus scan.

SafeBytes Anti-Malware Features

In order to protect your computer or laptop from many different internet-based threats, it is very important to install an anti-malware application on your PC. However, with countless numbers anti-malware companies in the market, nowadays it is actually difficult to decide which one you should purchase for your PC. Some of them do a good job in getting rid of threats while some will damage your PC themselves. You have to choose a product that has got a good reputation and detects not just computer viruses but other sorts of malware too. When considering commercial antimalware software options, most people choose well-known brands, such as SafeBytes, and are very happy with it. SafeBytes antimalware is a highly effective and easy-to-use protection tool that is ideal for end-users of all levels of IT literacy. Using its outstanding protection system, this tool will instantly detect and remove most of the security threats, including viruses, adware, browser hijackers, PUPs, trojans, worms, and ransomware. SafeBytes carries a plethora of amazing features which can help you protect your laptop or computer from malware attack and damage. The following are some popular features found in this software program: Real-time Active Protection: SafeBytes gives complete and real-time security for your personal machine. They’re highly effective in screening and getting rid of various threats because they’re constantly revised with the latest updates and safety measures. Most Reliable AntiMalware Protection: Safebytes is made on the very best virus engine in the industry. These engines will identify and remove threats even during the early stages of a malware outbreak. Internet Security: SafeBytes gives an instant safety rating on the pages you’re going to visit, automatically blocking risky sites and making sure that you’re certain of your safety while browsing the net. Lightweight: SafeBytes provides total protection from internet threats at a fraction of the CPU load because of its advanced detection engine and algorithms. 24/7 Online Tech Support: Support service is readily available for 24 x 7 x 365 days through email and chats to answer your queries.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you wish to manually remove MySearchDial without the use of an automated tool, it may be possible to do so by removing the program from the Windows Add/Remove Programs menu, or in cases of browser extensions, going to the browsers AddOn/Extension manager and removing it. You will likely also want to reset your browser. To ensure the complete removal, manually check your hard drive and registry for all of the following and remove or reset the values accordingly. Please note that this is for advanced users only and may be difficult, with incorrect file removal causing additional PC errors. In addition, some malware is capable of replicating or preventing deletion. Doing this in Safe Mode is advised.

The following files, folders, and registry entries are created or modified by MySearchDial

It has been reported that there are systems out there with Windows 11 operating systems that do not use the whole RAM memory installed in the system. If by any chance you are one of the unfortunate users that has encountered this issue, fear not, we have a solution for you.

Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool

1. Press ⊞ WINDOWS + S to open the search menu
2. Type in Windows Memory Diagnostic tool
3. Click on the found app
4. Select Restart now and check for problems
5. Wait for the tool to finish

Memory Diagnostic tool is a built-in tool in Windows, it was designed to automatically find and repair memory issues and should be your first step toward resolving this issue.

Check page file

1. Press ⊞ WINDOWS + S to open the search menu
2. Type in View advanced system settings
3. Click on the search result
4. Click on settings under performance
5. Click on the Advanced tab
6. Click on Change under Virtual memory
7. Uncheck the box for Automatically manage paging file size for all drives
8. Then select the drive and check the No paging file option
9. Click on Set
10. Repeat for all drives on the system
11. Reboot the system for changes to take effect

If after reboot system still does not see and use whole available RAM, repeat this process and turn back ON paging. After you are done move to the next solution.

Modify usable RAM

1. Press ⊞ WINDOWS + S to open the search menu
2. Type in System configuration
3. Click on the search result
4. Go to the Boot tab and click on Advanced options
5. Check the box for Maximum memory
6. Enter the installed RAM on your system in the field box and click on OK
7. Confirm once again on the OK and close the System configuration window
8. Restart the system

If the provided solution has not worked, uncheck the Maximum memory checkbox and save the changes. Move to the next solution.

Change and modify the registry

1. Press ⊞ WINDOWS + R to open the run menu
2. Type in Regedit and press the OK button or hit ENTER
3. Click on YES if prompted by UAC
4. Locate the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Memory
5. On the right side find and double click on the ClearPageFileAtShutdown DWORD
6. Enter 1 under Value data and click on OK to save the changes
7. Close the registry and reboot the system

Enable memory remapping inside BIOS

In order to do this fix, you will need to enter BIOS on your system. How entering BIOS is different from system to system depending on your manufacturer, especially if it is a laptop this step you will have to do alone. Go to your motherboard manufacturer or laptop manufacturer and see how to enter BIOS.

1. Enter BIOS (80% of the time this can be done by pressing DEL or F12 while the system is turned ON)
2. Locate System Agent Configuration option
3. Select Memory Remap Feature and Enable it

Your BIOS might be different from ours and you might not have the System Agent Configuration option, in this case, go through the setting and try to locate Memory Remap Feature. If this feature is missing as well move to the next step.

Rearrange RAM modules on the motherboard

Sometimes RAM memory cannot be slotted properly or just purely switching them in slots can solve the issue. Take RAM out, clean memory slots, clean motherboard connectors for them, and place them back in a different order. If by any chance none of the methods worked, then the issue might be in the hardware itself, either memory banks themselves, motherboard, power supply, etc. If this is sadly the case, you will have to locate the issue and replace the faulty part. If you are not technical enough for this adventure, the best solution is to take a PC to a computer repair shop.

If you encounter an error saying, “Boot Device Not Found” when you turn on your Windows 10 computer, then you’ve come to the right place as this post will guide you on how you can fix this problem. Apart from the error message, you will also see a message that states, “Please install an operating system on your hard disk, Hard Disk<xxx>”. You will then be asked to tap the F2 key to initiate the System Diagnostics. If you install the Windows operating system, it becomes the boot device, and when your computer boots, the UEFI or the BIOS looks for the operating installed on your drive and continues the process. So when you encounter the “Boot Device Not Found” error, this means that the UEFI or the BIOS wasn’t able to locate the drive where it can boot. There are several suggestions you can check out to resolve this error. You can try checking the connection with your boot drive or change the boot order. You can also fix the Boot Record from Recovery and see if the primary partition is active or not. But before you troubleshoot the problem, make sure that you have a bootable Windows USB drive ready since two of the options provided below will require you to boot into the Advanced Recovery mode. Once you have this covered, proceed to each one of the following options.

Option 1 – Try checking the connection with the boot drive

If you have a custom computer that comes with a cabinet, you might want to open it and remove any connected power supply, and then check the wires. As you know, drives are connected with the motherboard using a cable. So all you have to do is check if both ends are connected properly and make sure that the connection is not loose. You could also try to unplug the cable and plug it back in.

Option 2 – Try changing the boot order

You might also want to try changing the boot order of your computer. Each time a computer boots, the BIOS or the UEFI follows a boot order. It is the one that tells where to first look for the boot drive and if for some reason, a USB is connected to your computer and the first boot device found in the USB, then you have resolved the problem. All you have to do is to remove the USB device and boot or go into the BIOS and change the boot order yourself.

Option 3 – Try to rebuild the BCD files

The next thing you can do to resolve the issue is to Rebuild Boot Configuration Data or BCD files.

• You can start by booting into the installation environment for Windows 10 from an installation media.
• After that, click on Repair your computer and on the blue screen, select Troubleshoot and then select the Advanced options menu.
• From there, select Command Prompt and once you open it, enter each one of the commands given below by sequence.
  • bootrec /FixMbr
  • bootrec /FixBoot
  • bootrec /ScanOS
  • bootrec /RebuildBcd

• Once you’re done executing the commands given above, type “exit” to close the Command Prompt window and then restart your computer and see if it fixed the “Boot Device Not Found” error.

Option 4 – Try setting the System Partition to Active

Like the first given option, you also have to make sure that you have a bootable Windows 10 USB drive before you proceed to set the System Partition to Active. Once you have it covered, refer to these steps:

• Boot your computer using the bootable Windows 10 USB drive.
• Next, click Next when you get to the Welcome Screen.
• Then click on Repair your computer located at the bottom left part of the window and select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Command Prompt.
• After opening Command Prompt, type the following command and hit Enter to start the Diskpart utility. It is a command line-based utility just like Command Prompt but has a UAC prompt once you provoke it. So if you encounter a UAC prompt, just click on Yes to proceed.

diskpart

• Now type the following command:

list disk

• From there, select your primary disk by typing the following command:

select disk number

• After that, list all the partitions on the selected disk by entering the following command:

list partition

• The command you just entered will list all the partitions created on your PC including both types of partitions that are visible to a normal user in the File Explorer as well as the ones created by Windows 10 by default which helps it in storing the boot files and other important system files.
• Now type the following command to select the partition that is usually around 100 MB in size:

select partition number

• Finally, type the following command to mark the partition active:

active

• Then type the “exit” command to exit the disk part utility.

Once it’s done, the primary drive should now be active and you should now be able to boot into your computer without the “Boot Device Not Found” error.