How to Remove ClearBrowser Toolbar (Malware) from Your PC

ClearBrowser Toolbar is a potentially unwanted program (PUP) that masquerades as a helpful browser extension but actually disrupts your browsing experience. It can change your default search engine, display intrusive ads, and track your online activities. Recognizing and removing this malware is crucial for maintaining a secure and smooth-running PC.

How to Remove ClearBrowser Toolbar from Your PC

Step 1: Uninstall ClearBrowser Toolbar via Control Panel

1. Open Control Panel:
   • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
   • Type control panel and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Programs and Features:
   • Click on Uninstall a program under the Programs section.
3. Find ClearBrowser Toolbar:
   • Look through the list of installed programs for ClearBrowser Toolbar or any unfamiliar programs.
4. Uninstall the Program:
   • Select ClearBrowser Toolbar and click Uninstall. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.

Step 2: Remove ClearBrowser Toolbar from Browsers

For Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome:
   • Click the three dots in the top-right corner and go to More tools > Extensions.
2. Locate the Extension:
   • Find ClearBrowser Toolbar in the list of extensions.
3. Remove the Extension:
   • Click the Remove button next to the extension. Confirm the removal if prompted.

For Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Firefox:
   • Click the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner and go to Add-ons and themes.
2. Locate the Extension:
   • Navigate to the Extensions tab and find ClearBrowser Toolbar.
3. Remove the Extension:
   • Click the Remove button next to the extension.

For Microsoft Edge:

1. Open Edge:
   • Click the three dots in the top-right corner and go to Extensions.
2. Locate the Extension:
   • Find ClearBrowser Toolbar in the list of extensions.
3. Remove the Extension:
   • Click the Remove button and confirm the removal.

Step 3: Use Anti-Malware Software

1. Download and Install Anti-Malware Software:
   • Use trusted anti-malware programs like Malwarebytes, HitmanPro, or Spybot Search & Destroy.
2. Run a Full Scan:
   • Open the anti-malware software and run a full system scan to detect and remove any remaining traces of ClearBrowser Toolbar.
3. Quarantine or Remove Detected Threats:
   • Follow the software’s prompts to quarantine or remove any detected threats.

Step 4: Reset Browser Settings

For Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome:
   • Click the three dots in the top-right corner and go to Settings.
2. Advanced Settings:
   • Scroll down and click on Advanced.
3. Reset and Clean Up:
   • Under the “Reset and clean up” section, click Restore settings to their original defaults.
4. Confirm Reset:
   • Click Reset settings to confirm.

For Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Firefox:
   • Click the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner and go to Help > Troubleshooting Information.
2. Reset Firefox:
   • Click Refresh Firefox and confirm the action.

For Microsoft Edge:

1. Open Edge:
   • Click the three dots in the top-right corner and go to Settings.
2. Reset Settings:
   • Scroll down to Reset settings and click Restore settings to their default values.
3. Confirm Reset:
   • Click Reset to confirm.

How to Prevent ClearBrowser Toolbar Malware

Be Cautious with Downloads

• Download from Official Sources: Only download software and browser extensions from official and reputable websites.
• Read Reviews and Ratings: Check user reviews and ratings before downloading extensions or software.

Use Security Software

• Install Antivirus Programs: Use reliable antivirus software to protect against malware.
• Enable Real-Time Protection: Ensure your antivirus software has real-time protection enabled to detect threats immediately.

Keep Software Updated

• Update Regularly: Keep your operating system, browsers, and security software up to date to protect against vulnerabilities.

Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links

• Be Wary of Emails and Pop-Ups: Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails, pop-ups, or ads, which can often lead to malware infections.

Use Browser Extensions Wisely

• Limit Extensions: Only install necessary extensions and periodically review and remove any that are no longer needed or look suspicious.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove ClearBrowser Toolbar malware from your PC and protect yourself from future infections.