“Internet-start.net” is a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) that after being installed on a computer will attach itself to a browser, change the homepage, new tab page and the search engine. The user may be redirected to sites with potentially malicious content and may be shown different sponsored results. On top of it all, you can experience different advertisements popping up and find yourself on landing pages unrelated to your search queries. The article will help you to remove Internet-start.net permanently. Follow the browser hijacker removal instructions given at the end of the article.
Internet-start.net Details
| Name | Internet-start.net |
| Type | Browser Hijacker, PUP |
| Short Description | The default search engine of a browser may look like a legitimate search provider, and there can be browser redirects from the search results. |
| Symptoms | The user may have installed the application without his approval. Sets a custom homepage, search engine and may also change the new tab setting. |
| Distribution Method | Freeware Installers, Bundling |
| Detection Tool |
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Internet-start.net Hijacker – How Did I Get It?
The “Internet-start.net” PUP usually gets into your computer through third-party installers. It can sneak into your computer without your approval, by hiding itself in freeware installations and bundled packages. In these packages, additional components for installation are not always disclosed properly, and people get tricked into installing potentially unwanted programs such as “Internet-start.net”. Sometimes that can be avoided by clicking on the “Advanced” or “Custom” setting in an installation setup to see what, exactly, will be installed.
Other ways of getting infected are by opening spam emails and downloading e-mail attachments, or by clicking on different advertisements and banners containing potentially malicious content which may also add a browser extension. The domain name is the same: “Internet-start.net”.
Internet-start.net Hijacker – What Does It Do?
“Internet-start.net” is classified as a browser hijacker. When it is installed on your computer, it may change different browser settings, such as the homepage, new tab and search engine, and may also install a browser extension. All these settings are to make “Internet-start.net” a default search engine and for you to use the “Internet-start.net” domain whenever you try making a search query.
If your computer system is affected by this hijacker, you will see redirects to the search engine that comes with it and changes the other browser settings such as your homepage, new tab, themes etc. Extensions and addons which are connected to this hijacker could be in your browser apps and alter the new tab window, homepage, and the default search settings. That can be seen through redirects which are spawned to your pages when you are casually browsing the Internet.
Interesting how the Search engine works with sponsored links most of the time, but when you try typing something popular, it may show only 5 pages with results:
If you try searching for something in your browser, the hijacker can display incorrect or no results and sponsored links. You may also be shown advertisements in the form of pop-ups or banners. The sites which you may be redirected to, generate profit when on a pay-per-click basis and they could contain potentially malicious code to infect your computer more.
An interesting fact is that the logo which the hijacker uses, actually, belongs to a program called “DriverPack Solution” which is another program with malicious content detected on the Turkish sites it is distributed on.
Internet-start.net – What Data Does It Collect?
The Privacy Policy (EULA) of “Internet-start.net” redirects you to the one of google.ru. The same goes for Terms and Conditions. The hijacker can collect different information about your internet activity and usage such as your search queries, the websites you visited, your IP address, what have you clicked on, what devices and software you have, your interactions with social networks and other data.
Other than that, various cookies will be put inside your computer system. Different data will be collected by the hijacker and the cookie data will be stored and collected up to 10 years from the day it has been put in your computer device.
Remove Internet-start.net Browser Hijacker
To remove “Internet-start.net” manually from your system, make sure to follow the step-by-step removal instructions provided below. In case the manual removal does not get rid of this malware completely, you should search for and remove the leftover files with an advanced anti-malware program. Installing such a program will also make sure that your system is safe from other threats that come your way.
Manual Versus Automated Removal Methods
While manual detection offers a firsthand check, it might not catch all adware and browser-hijacking components, especially those hidden within the system. Automated detection methods, using tools like antivirus programs, provide a more thorough approach. They scan the device’s files and memory for known adware signatures and behaviors, offering a comprehensive method to identify and remove unwanted software. For users seeking a reliable solution for adware removal, SpyHunter can be a powerful ally in combating threats like Internet-start.net, ensuring your device’s security and performance are not compromised.
If you’re an experienced user and prefer a hands-on approach, you can attempt to remove Internet-start.net manually. However, proceed with caution, as manual removal involves altering system settings and registry entries, which can have unintended consequences if not done correctly.
- Uninstall suspicious applications: Start by removing any recently installed or unknown applications from your system.
- Clean your browsers: Remove suspicious extensions, reset your browser settings to default, and clear the cache to eliminate any adware residue.
- Scan for residual files: Look for and delete any leftover files or folders associated with Srchstores.com in your system directories.
- Keep in mind that manual removal does not guarantee complete eradication of all adware components, and using a dedicated tool like SpyHunter may still be necessary for a thorough cleanup.
Why Opt for a Professional Adware Removal Tool?
Choosing a professional adware removal tool is paramount for those aiming to efficiently and safely eliminate unwanted programs that cause redirects to Internet-start.net.
Tools like SpyHunter are crafted to quickly identify, isolate, and remove intrusive pieces of software, ensuring that every trace is eradicated completely. Unlike basic antivirus software, they offer a comprehensive scan that detects hidden adware, providing a clean slate for your device.
SpyHunter stands out as a critical ally in the battle against adware and browser hijackers. By offering a thorough scanning process, it can detect adware elements that standard antivirus programs may miss. SpyHunter’s tailored approach ensures that it can identify and neutralize the threats posed by adware. Its user-friendly interface simplifies the removal process, making it accessible to a wide audience, regardless of their technical expertise. Incorporating SpyHunter into your security toolkit not only cleans your computer of current adware infections but also fortifies its defenses, preventing future attacks and keeping your personal information safe.
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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- Safari
- Internet Explorer
- Stop Push Pop-ups
How to Remove Internet-start.net from Windows.
Step 1: Scan for Internet-start.net with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 2: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode
Step 3: Uninstall Internet-start.net and related software from Windows
Uninstall Steps for Windows 11
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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully uninstall most programs.
Step 4: Clean Any registries, Created by Internet-start.net 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 Internet-start.net there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 Internet-start.net (Windows).
Get rid of Internet-start.net from Mac OS X.
Step 1: Uninstall Internet-start.net and remove related files and objects
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 Internet-start.net. Check the app you want to stop from running automatically and then select on the Minus (“-“) icon to hide it.
- 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 Internet-start.net 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:
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 Internet-start.net files from your Mac
When you are facing problems on your Mac as a result of unwanted scripts and programs such as Internet-start.net, 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.
Video Removal Guide for Internet-start.net (Mac)
Remove Internet-start.net from Google Chrome.
Step 1: Start Google Chrome and open the drop menu
Step 2: Move the cursor over "Tools" and then from the extended menu choose "Extensions"
Step 3: From the opened "Extensions" menu locate the unwanted extension and click on its "Remove" button.
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 Internet-start.net from Mozilla Firefox.
Step 1: Start Mozilla Firefox. Open the menu window:
Step 2: Select the "Add-ons" icon from the menu.
Step 3: Select the unwanted extension and click "Remove"
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 Internet-start.net from Microsoft Edge.
Step 1: Start Edge browser.
Step 2: Open the drop menu by clicking on the icon at the top right corner.
Step 3: From the drop menu select "Extensions".
Step 4: Choose the suspected malicious extension you want to remove and then click on the gear icon.
Step 5: Remove the malicious extension by scrolling down and then clicking on Uninstall.
Remove Internet-start.net 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".
Step 4: After that, select the 'Extensions' Tab.
Step 5: Click once on the extension you want to remove.
Step 6: Click 'Uninstall'.
A pop-up window will appear asking for confirmation to uninstall the extension. Select 'Uninstall' again, and the Internet-start.net will be removed.
Eliminate Internet-start.net 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'
Step 3: In the 'Manage Add-ons' window.
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'.
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.
Step 2: In Settings, select “Advanced Settings”:
Step 3: Click “Content Settings”:
Step 4: Open “Notifications”:
Step 5: Click the three dots and choose Block, Edit or Remove options:
Remove Push Notifications on Firefox
Step 1: Go to Firefox Options.
Step 2: Go to “Settings”, type “notifications” in the search bar and click "Settings":
Step 3: Click “Remove” on any site you wish notifications gone and click “Save Changes”
Stop Push Notifications on Opera
Step 1: In Opera, press ALT+P to go to Settings.
Step 2: In Setting search, type “Content” to go to Content Settings.
Step 3: Open Notifications:
Step 4: Do the same as you did with Google Chrome (explained below):
Eliminate Push Notifications on Safari
Step 1: Open Safari Preferences.
Step 2: Choose the domain from where you like push pop-ups gone and change to "Deny" from "Allow".
Internet-start.net-FAQ
What Is Internet-start.net?
The Internet-start.net 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 Internet-start.net?
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 Internet-start.net?
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 Internet-start.net Work?
Once installed, Internet-start.net 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.
Internet-start.net 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 Internet-start.net 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 Internet-start.net Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Internet-start.net 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 Internet-start.net?
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 Internet-start.net threat is backed with VirusTotal.
To better understand this online threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.