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Remove MySites Browser Hijacker (Virus Removal Guide)

What Is MySites?

MySites falls under the category of unwanted software largely known as a “browser hijacker.” Hijackers come in the form of suspicious browser add-ons capable of causing various issues for both the affected browser and the operating system. Initially, they may appear beneficial by promising useful functionalities. However, their actual behavior involves unauthorized alterations to your browser’s settings, including the silent replacement of the default search provider with goog.mysitesext.com.

This situation introduces risk to your online experience, as you may be continuously directed to unfamiliar or potentially hazardous websites. Because of that, the complete removal of MySites and goog.mysitesext.com is highly advisory. This article provides you with a quick and an extended removal guide.

Agoog.mysitesext.com Quick Removal Guide

  1. Identify the Culprit. Determine the browser hijacker causing issues by reviewing recent software installations or suspicious browser add-ons.
  2. Access Browser Settings. Open your browser’s settings menu. This is usually found in the upper-right corner (denoted by three dots or lines).
  3. Manage Extensions/Add-ons. Navigate to the “Extensions” or “Add-ons” section. Disable or remove any unfamiliar or suspicious extensions related to the hijacker.
  4. Reset Browser Settings. Look for the “Reset” or “Restore” option in your browser settings. This will revert your browser to its default state, removing unwanted changes.
  5. Clear Cache and Cookies. Proceed to clear your browser’s cache and cookies, which can harbor hijacker-related data.
  6. Change Homepage and Search Engine. Ensure your desired homepage and search engine are set. Remove any unwanted URLs associated with the hijacker.
  7. Run an Anti-Malware Scan. Perform a thorough system scan using reliable antivirus software to detect and eliminate any remaining malicious files.

Remove MySites Browser Hijacker (Virus Removal Guide)

MySites Details

Name MySites
Type Browser Hijacker, Redirect, PUA
Short Description A suspicious browser extension that hijacks your browsers and replaces your default search with Agoog.mysitesext.com.
Symptoms Your search provider is replaced with Agoog.mysitesext.com. Ads may be displayed.
Distribution Method Freeware Installations, Bundled Packages
Detection Tool See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware

Download

Malware Removal Tool

What Is the Definition of a Browser Hijacker

A browser hijacker represents a form of malicious software that modifies a web browser’s settings without the user’s consent or awareness. Such software typically alters the homepage, search engine, and new tab page to steer users toward undesired websites, frequently for the purposes of advertising or data collection. Browser hijackers can detrimentally affect the browsing encounter, introduce unwanted advertisements, and may present privacy and security concerns for online users.

MySites – What Should I Know? How Is It Distributed?

If you find MySites installed on your browser without any recollection of downloading it yourself, it might have been included in the installer of another program. This distribution method is known as software bundling. Although not illegal, it can be used to generate profit on a pay-per-install basis. To avoid unintended installations, it is best to refrain from downloading bundled software. MySites may also be available for download on various freeware websites.

Distribution Details

The presence of this browser hijacker may be due to a bundled installer. These bundled installers often originate from download sites that package archives with adware, browser plugins, potentially unwanted applications (PUAs), and sometimes even malware. It’s possible that you unintentionally downloaded such an installer while attempting to get a legitimate application.

Software bundling itself is not illegal, but it can result in additional unwanted downloads, even of legitimate products. To protect yourself from this, exercise caution during the installation process of freeware applications.

Unsafe browsing habits could also be a potential cause for the appearance of MySites. Clicking on fake pop-up warnings, such as those claiming your antivirus has expired or that you need to update Adobe Flash Player, may have led to the installation of this adware.

What Does MySites Do?

Once MySites is installed, it will alter your new tab page and default search provider. Attempting to restore your browser’s settings to their previous state may prove unsuccessful, as browser hijackers are known for their persistence.

Keep in mind that interacting with any content generated by MySites may result in an influx of additional unwanted apps. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your computer system is protected against any related online threats.

Is MySites a Virus?

MySites falls under the category of browser extensions and is not classified as a computer virus. However, it is known to redirect users to suspicious websites, display sponsored or corrupted search results, collect browsing data and personal information, and generate unwanted ads.

Is MySites Dangerous?

Browser hijackers like MySites can be considered dangerous if not promptly removed. The longer the extension remains in your browser, the more susceptible it becomes to data collection, online tracking, intrusive ad campaigns, and other potentially unwanted activities.

How to Protect against Browser Hijackers

You can follow these simple steps to improve the protection of your browsers:

  • Keep your operating system and browser up to date with the latest security patches.
  • Download software only from trusted sources and official websites.
  • Be cautious during the installation process and opt for custom or advanced installation options.
  • Read and understand the terms and conditions before installing any software.
  • Avoid clicking on suspicious links or pop-up ads.
  • Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software and keep them updated.
  • Regularly scan your computer for malware and unwanted programs.
  • Be mindful of the browser extensions and add-ons you install and review their permissions.
  • Enable the built-in browser security features, such as pop-up blockers and safe browsing settings.
  • Regularly clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
  • Educate yourself about common phishing techniques and be wary of sharing personal information online.

How to Remove MySites: Extended Removal Guide

To complete uninstall and remove MySites, together with all its associated components from your computer, adhere to the following steps. These guidelines encompass both manual and automatic removal methods. Employing both approaches concurrently is recommended to ensure complete removal. If you feel uncertain about performing the manual removal, opting for an automated program to uninstall it is a secure alternative.

Milena Dimitrova

An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim

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  • Windows
  • Mac OS X
  • Google Chrome
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Microsoft Edge
  • Safari
  • Internet Explorer
  • Stop Push Pop-ups

How to Remove MySites from Windows.


Step 1: Scan for MySites with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1.1 Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.


It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.


1.2 After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.

SpyHunter Install and Scan for Viruses Step 1


1.3 After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

SpyHunter Install and Scan for Viruses Step 2


1.4 After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.

SpyHunter Install and Scan for Viruses Step 3

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.


Step 2: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode

2.1 Hold Windows key + R


2.2 The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK.
boot your pc in safe mode step 1


2.3 Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK".

boot your pc in safe mode step 2

Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.


2.4 When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode.
boot your pc in safe mode step 3


2.5 You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen.
boot your pc in safe mode step 4


Step 3: Uninstall MySites and related software from Windows

Uninstall Steps for Windows 11

1 Go to the search bar and type "Add or Remove Programs" and then click it.

Uninstall Malware from Windows 11 step 1

2 Locate the software that you want to uninstall click on the three dots and click "Uninstall" to begin the process.

Uninstall Malware from Windows 11 step 2

3 Follow the uninstall steps until the software has been effectively removed from your computer

Uninstall Malware from Windows 11 step 3

Uninstall Steps for Windows 10 and Older Versions

Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:


1 Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear.

boot your pc in safe mode step 5


2 In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER.

boot your pc in safe mode step 6


3 This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall"
boot your pc in safe mode step 7Follow the instructions above and you will successfully uninstall most programs.


Step 4: Clean Any registries, Created by MySites on Your PC.

The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:

  • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
  • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
  • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
  • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce

You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by MySites there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

4.1 Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK.
clean malicious registries step 1


4.2 When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above.

clean malicious registries step 2


4.3 You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it.

clean malicious registries step 3 Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.


Video Removal Guide for MySites (Windows).


Get rid of MySites from Mac OS X.


Step 1: Uninstall MySites and remove related files and objects

1.1 Hit the ⇧+⌘+U keys to open Utilities. Another way is to click on “Go” and then click “Utilities”, like the image below shows:
uninstall virus from mac step 1


1.2 Find Activity Monitor and double-click it:

uninstall virus from mac step 2


1.3 In the Activity Monitor look for any suspicious processes, belonging or related to MySites:

uninstall virus from mac step 3

Tip: To quit a process completely, choose the “Force Quit” option.

uninstall virus from mac step 4


1.4 Click on the "Go" button again, but this time select Applications. Another way is with the ⇧+⌘+A buttons.


1.5 In the Applications menu, look for any suspicious app or an app with a name, similar or identical to MySites. If you find it, right-click on the app and select “Move to Trash”.

uninstall virus from mac step 5


1.6 Select Accounts, after which click on the Login Items preference.

Your Mac will then show you a list of items that start automatically when you log in. Look for any suspicious apps identical or similar to MySites. Check the app you want to stop from running automatically and then select on the Minus (“-“) icon to hide it.


1.7 Remove any left-over files that might be related to this threat manually by following the sub-steps below:

  • Go to Finder.
  • In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
  • Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
  • If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.

In case you cannot remove MySites via Step 1 above:

In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:

Disclaimer! If you are about to tamper with Library files on Mac, be sure to know the name of the virus file, because if you delete the wrong file, it may cause irreversible damage to your MacOS. Continue on your own responsibility!

1: Click on "Go" and Then "Go to Folder" as shown underneath:

uninstall virus from mac step 6

2: Type in "/Library/LauchAgents/" and click Ok:

uninstall virus from mac step 7

3: Delete all of the virus files that have similar or the same name as MySites. If you believe there is no such file, do not delete anything.

uninstall virus from mac step 8

You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:

→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons

Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.


Step 2: Scan for and remove MySites files from your Mac

When you are facing problems on your Mac as a result of unwanted scripts and programs such as MySites, the recommended way of eliminating the threat is by using an anti-malware program. SpyHunter for Mac offers advanced security features along with other modules that will improve your Mac’s security and protect it in the future.


Click the button below below to download SpyHunter for Mac and scan for MySites:


Download

SpyHunter for Mac


Video Removal Guide for MySites (Mac)


Remove MySites from Google Chrome.


Step 1: Start Google Chrome and open the drop menu

Google Chrome removal guide step 1


Step 2: Move the cursor over "Tools" and then from the extended menu choose "Extensions"

Google Chrome removal guide step 2


Step 3: From the opened "Extensions" menu locate the unwanted extension and click on its "Remove" button.

Google Chrome removal guide step 3


Step 4: After the extension is removed, restart Google Chrome by closing it from the red "X" button at the top right corner and start it again.


Erase MySites from Mozilla Firefox.


Step 1: Start Mozilla Firefox. Open the menu window:

Mozilla Firefox removal guide step 1


Step 2: Select the "Add-ons" icon from the menu.

Mozilla Firefox removal guide step 2


Step 3: Select the unwanted extension and click "Remove"

Mozilla Firefox removal guide step 3


Step 4: After the extension is removed, restart Mozilla Firefox by closing it from the red "X" button at the top right corner and start it again.


Uninstall MySites from Microsoft Edge.


Step 1: Start Edge browser.


Step 2: Open the drop menu by clicking on the icon at the top right corner.

Edge Browser removal guide step 2


Step 3: From the drop menu select "Extensions".

Edge Browser removal guide step 3


Step 4: Choose the suspected malicious extension you want to remove and then click on the gear icon.

Edge Browser removal guide step 4


Step 5: Remove the malicious extension by scrolling down and then clicking on Uninstall.

Edge Browser removal guide step 5


Remove MySites from Safari


Step 1: Start the Safari app.


Step 2: After hovering your mouse cursor to the top of the screen, click on the Safari text to open its drop down menu.


Step 3: From the menu, click on "Preferences".

Safari browser removal guide step 3


Step 4: After that, select the 'Extensions' Tab.

Safari browser removal guide step 4


Step 5: Click once on the extension you want to remove.


Step 6: Click 'Uninstall'.

Safari browser removal guide step 5

A pop-up window will appear asking for confirmation to uninstall the extension. Select 'Uninstall' again, and the MySites will be removed.


How to Reset Safari
IMPORTANT: Before resetting Safari make sure you back up all your saved passwords within the browser in case you forget them.

Start Safari and then click on the gear leaver icon.

Click the Reset Safari button and you will reset the browser.

Eliminate MySites from Internet Explorer.


Step 1: Start Internet Explorer.


Step 2: Click on the gear icon labeled 'Tools' to open the drop menu and select 'Manage Add-ons'

Internet Explorer browser removal guide step 2


Step 3: In the 'Manage Add-ons' window.
Internet Explorer browser removal guide step 3


Step 4: Select the extension you want to remove and then click 'Disable'. A pop-up window will appear to inform you that you are about to disable the selected extension, and some more add-ons might be disabled as well. Leave all the boxes checked, and click 'Disable'.

Internet Explorer browser removal guide step 4


Step 5: After the unwanted extension has been removed, restart Internet Explorer by closing it from the red 'X' button located at the top right corner and start it again.

Remove Push Notifications from Your Browsers


Turn Off Push Notifications from Google Chrome

To disable any Push Notices from Google Chrome browser, please follow the steps below:

Step 1: Go to Settings in Chrome.

Google Chrome - Disable Push Notifications Step 1

Step 2: In Settings, select “Advanced Settings”:

Google Chrome - Disable Push Notifications Step 2

Step 3: Click “Content Settings”:

Google Chrome - Disable Push Notifications Step 3

Step 4: Open “Notifications”:

Google Chrome - Disable Push Notifications Step 4

Step 5: Click the three dots and choose Block, Edit or Remove options:

Google Chrome - Disable Push Notifications Step 5

Remove Push Notifications on Firefox

Step 1: Go to Firefox Options.

Mozilla Firefox - Disable Push Notifications Step 1

Step 2: Go to “Settings”, type “notifications” in the search bar and click "Settings":

Mozilla Firefox - Disable Push Notifications Step 2

Step 3: Click “Remove” on any site you wish notifications gone and click “Save Changes”

Mozilla Firefox - Disable Push Notifications Step 3

Stop Push Notifications on Opera

Step 1: In Opera, press ALT+P to go to Settings.

Opera - Disable Push Notifications Step 1

Step 2: In Setting search, type “Content” to go to Content Settings.

Opera - Disable Push Notifications Step 2

Step 3: Open Notifications:

Opera - Disable Push Notifications Step 3

Step 4: Do the same as you did with Google Chrome (explained below):

Opera - Disable Push Notifications Step 4

Eliminate Push Notifications on Safari

Step 1: Open Safari Preferences.

Safari Browser - Disable Push Notifications Step 1

Step 2: Choose the domain from where you like push pop-ups gone and change to "Deny" from "Allow".

MySites-FAQ

What Is MySites?

The MySites threat is adware or browser redirect virus.

It may slow your computer down significantly and display advertisements. The main idea is for your information to likely get stolen or more ads to appear on your device.

The creators of such unwanted apps work with pay-per-click schemes to get your computer to visit risky or different types of websites that may generate them funds. This is why they do not even care what types of websites show up on the ads. This makes their unwanted software indirectly risky for your OS.

What Are the Symptoms of MySites?

There are several symptoms to look for when this particular threat and also unwanted apps in general are active:

Symptom #1: Your computer may become slow and have poor performance in general.

Symptom #2: You have toolbars, add-ons or extensions on your web browsers that you don't remember adding.

Symptom #3: You see all types of ads, like ad-supported search results, pop-ups and redirects to randomly appear.

Symptom #4: You see installed apps on your Mac running automatically and you do not remember installing them.

Symptom #5: You see suspicious processes running in your Task Manager.

If you see one or more of those symptoms, then security experts recommend that you check your computer for viruses.

What Types of Unwanted Programs Are There?

According to most malware researchers and cyber-security experts, the threats that can currently affect your device can be rogue antivirus software, adware, browser hijackers, clickers, fake optimizers and any forms of PUPs.

What to Do If I Have a "virus" like MySites?

With few simple actions. First and foremost, it is imperative that you follow these steps:

Step 1: Find a safe computer and connect it to another network, not the one that your Mac was infected in.

Step 2: Change all of your passwords, starting from your email passwords.

Step 3: Enable two-factor authentication for protection of your important accounts.

Step 4: Call your bank to change your credit card details (secret code, etc.) if you have saved your credit card for online shopping or have done online activities with your card.

Step 5: Make sure to call your ISP (Internet provider or carrier) and ask them to change your IP address.

Step 6: Change your Wi-Fi password.

Step 7: (Optional): Make sure to scan all of the devices connected to your network for viruses and repeat these steps for them if they are affected.

Step 8: Install anti-malware software with real-time protection on every device you have.

Step 9: Try not to download software from sites you know nothing about and stay away from low-reputation websites in general.

If you follow these recommendations, your network and all devices will become significantly more secure against any threats or information invasive software and be virus free and protected in the future too.

How Does MySites Work?

Once installed, MySites can collect data using trackers. This data is about your web browsing habits, such as the websites you visit and the search terms you use. It is then used to target you with ads or to sell your information to third parties.

MySites can also download other malicious software onto your computer, such as viruses and spyware, which can be used to steal your personal information and show risky ads, that may redirect to virus sites or scams.

Is MySites Malware?

The truth is that PUPs (adware, browser hijackers) are not viruses, but may be just as dangerous since they may show you and redirect you to malware websites and scam pages.

Many security experts classify potentially unwanted programs as malware. This is because of the unwanted effects that PUPs can cause, such as displaying intrusive ads and collecting user data without the user’s knowledge or consent.

About the MySites Research

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this MySites how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific, adware-related problem, and restore your browser and computer system.

How did we conduct the research on MySites?

Please note that our research is based on independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, thanks to which we receive daily updates on the latest malware, adware, and browser hijacker definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the MySites threat is backed with VirusTotal.
To better understand this online threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.

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