I have malware on my Windows 7 laptop that hijacks web pages and either inserts ads onto them or takes over the ads that are there. It also disables most of the page's functions.
Proior to this, I had not installed any new programs on my computer in months, though I was on a site looking up "Hamlet" quotes the other day and got one of those annoying pop ups that said I was infected. I closed the window and went on with life.
I run MacAffee and it didn't catch this. It still doesn't realize there's something there.
Because I use Chrome, I cleaned that. I also removed all cookies from the last week and all of my cache. Nada.
I ran Malwarebytes, which found and eradicated four files. I rebooted and enjoyed a couple hours of peace before the ad hijacker started again. Now, Malwarebytes sees nothing in repeated scans.
I deleted Chrome and switched to FireFox. Within about 5 minutes, the malware took FF over too.
I then switched to ESET scanner, which found and eradicated one file. I rebooted and the malware is still active. Repeated ESET scans show nothing.
i have researched every program, application, and process that's running. They all appear to be legit. I even started killing non-essential processes to see where the little b**tard might be hiding. No luck.
I'm about to throw my laptop through a window. What programs or checks should I try before I do that?