Firefox virus?

I am using Firefox 21.0 and every third or so click it redirects me to a spam site. I have Norton Security Suite (20.3.1.22) and Malwarebyes installed. A day ago I got a message from Norton telling me Malwarebyes is incompatible with Norton and I should delete it. I am confused and unsure what I should do. I am using Firefox because I had trouble getting Facebook with Internet explorer and I was equally unsuccessful trying to use Chrome.

I am using an old Dell PC (I love it!) Dimension 8300 with windows XP professional.

Most recently I am having increased problems with slowing and overload messages.

Thanks in advance,

Katrina Snow

 

The first thing to try is some basic browser maintenance.
This may not fix the problem, but it's an easy first step.

Clear the browser's cache:
How to clear the Firefox cache

You can also use CCleaner, Applications tab and check Internet Cache under the Firefox heading.

Also, in the Firefox browser, go to Tools > Add-ons and check to see if the plugins are up to date.
Also, check the Extensions for needed updates.

Be sure to restart the browser.
Make a backup copy of your profile. You may have to do some more cleaning / purging and maybe an uninstall / reinstall of Firefox.

 

Thanks for your assistance. I did an addons update and extensions update (and deleted Sweetpacks toolbar). I also updated my flash player and cleared my firefox browser cache. I had run CCcleaner earlier in the day and reran it tonight including the Firefox internet cache (total 75.5MB). I have restarted firefox and it is still redirectiong to spam sites about every 3rd or 4th click. I am going to download Firefox again and then reinstall it tomorrow. I am not sure I know how to make a backup copy of my profile??? I am not even sure what it is!

 

Back up and restore information in Firefox profiles

This backup will contain your Bookmarks and browsing History amoung other things.

Before doing an Uninstall/Reinstall you can try this procedure:
Reset Firefox – easily fix most problems

If you use a HOSTS file, delete it and get an updated version.

Location:
C:\WINDOWS\system32\drivers\etc

If that does not work and you want to continue with fixing possible browser issues,
I suggest that you do an uninstall and clean install.
You can use Revo Uninstaller to do a full uninstall.

If all of that fails, then I would suspect that there is a security problem or a problem with Norton.

 

That is because Norton is telling you that it is the virus, not Firefox. Dump it and get a real virus protection. Most of us are running Microsoft Security Essentials, others are choosing other free, good software. Norton belongs in the trash can, which it has belonged in for over 15 years. The only good thing about it, is that it drains your wallet, and makes Symantic richer.

 

Thanks again for your help. I did backup and restore information in Firefox profiles and Reset Firefox per your links.

I found and deleted the host file (I do not know what it does) but am unsure how to get an updated version.

It looks like Firefox might be fine now so I will wait and see for now. If it is still a problem in the morning, I will try the uninstall as you suggest (Revo).

I get a full version of Norton free with my comcast cable internet subscription. I have been pretty free of problems until recently. I also get a large number of spam emails and comcast says they know about the problem and are "working on it."

Recently I got a message from Norton saying that Malwarebytes is incompatible with Norton but I have been reluctant to give up my subscription to Malwarebytes. Do think these 2 programs are incompatible?

Thanks again, I will followup with a status report soon.

 

ksnow, Thanks for the feedback and glad to hear that you are making progress.

Here is an explanation of the HOSTS file and a few links for downloading different versions.

bleepingcomputer: The Hosts File and what it can do for you

The HOSTS file that I use is here. It is smaller and does a good job.
someonewhocares.org - How to make the internet not suck

It is possible for security programs to conflict with each other.
If you bought a license for Malwarebytes Antimalware PRO, that is a one time payment and a lifetime license.
It is also true that many people have spoken poorly about Norton security products, but some have said that it has improved recently.
Just the opposite is true for Malwarebytes. It is highly recommended.
If you are going to drop one of the two, I think it should be Norton and not MBAM.

You may do much better with one of the free anti-virus programs like [MG] Avast or [MG] Avira

 

Thanks so much for your helpful information and suggestions. As of today, my Firefox appears to behaving correctly!! I am not sure which of the many adjustments solved the problem, but it is gone and I have no new problems.

I appreciate your information regarding hosts (I am trying to use yours for now) and the general security software issues. It seems likely that I will abandon Norton in the near future, particularly if problems continue. I had McAfee for many years and I was so happy when I finally gave it up. It was always messing things up.

I am going to try to figure out how to sign off this thread, but if I am unsuccessful, please feel free to terminate it...lol

Regards,

Katrina

 

Thanks for the update. Glad something worked. No "sign off" is needed. Threads remain available forever?, but usually get stale
after a few months.