Fix IE Hijacked by StartPage: Step-by-Step Removal Tool

Download the StartPage Spyware Removal Tool for Internet Explorer

If Internet Explorer has been hijacked by StartPage spyware—redirecting searches, changing your homepage, or injecting ads—you can remove it with a dedicated removal tool. Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to downloading, running, and verifying the removal using a safe spyware removal workflow for Internet Explorer.

Before you begin (quick checklist)

• Backup: Export bookmarks/Favorites from Internet Explorer and save important files.
• Disconnect (optional): If you suspect active data exfiltration, temporarily disconnect from the internet.
• Admin rights: Ensure you can run programs as an administrator.
• Restore point: Create a Windows System Restore point in case you need to roll back changes.

Step 1 — Obtain the StartPage Spyware Removal Tool

• Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware vendor site to download removal tools. Popular, trustworthy sources include Malwarebytes, ESET, Bitdefender, and Microsoft Defender Offline.
• On your secure PC or another device, visit the vendor’s official site and search for “browser hijacker removal” or “StartPage removal.” Avoid third-party download aggregators.
• Download the tool executable to a known folder (e.g., Desktop).

Step 2 — Prepare Internet Explorer

1. Close all Internet Explorer windows and other browsers.
2. Open Internet Explorer settings:
   • Click the gear icon → Internet options.
3. Under the General tab, note your current homepage and copy it if you want to restore later.
4. Under the Advanced tab, click Reset if IE is unstable (this will remove add-ons and custom settings).

Step 3 — Run the removal tool (recommended workflow)

1. Right-click the downloaded removal tool and select Run as administrator.
2. Allow the tool to update its malware definitions when prompted.
3. Choose Full scan or Deep scan (preferred) to check system files, registry entries, and browser settings.
4. Review the scan results. Quarantined items often include browser helper objects (BHOs), modified shortcut targets, and registry keys that cause redirects.
5. Confirm removal/quarantine and restart the computer if the tool requests it.

Step 4 — Manual cleanup (if needed)

If remnants remain after the automated scan:

• Check IE add-ons: Gear icon → Manage add-ons → Disable suspicious extensions (look for StartPage or unknown publishers).
• Shortcut targets: Right-click IE shortcut → Properties → Shortcut tab → verify the Target field ends with “iexplore.exe” only.
• Hosts file: Open C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts in Notepad (run as admin) and remove suspicious entries.
• Registry (advanced): Back up registry then search for StartPage-related keys and remove. Only proceed if comfortable editing the registry.

Step 5 — Restore browser settings and verify

• In Internet Options → General, set your preferred homepage.
• In Manage add-ons, re-enable legitimate extensions.
• Clear cache and cookies: Settings → Safety → Delete browsing history.
• Test by navigating to several websites and doing search queries to confirm no redirects occur.

Step 6 — Prevent reinfection

• Keep Windows and Internet Explorer updated (though IE is deprecated—consider migrating to Edge, Chrome, or Firefox).
• Install and maintain reputable anti-malware software with real-time protection.
• Avoid downloading unknown toolbars, extensions, or freeware from untrusted sites.
• Regularly back up important data and create system restore points.

Troubleshooting (quick fixes)

• If the browser still redirects after cleanup, boot into Safe Mode with Networking and run the removal tool again.
• Use a secondary on-demand scanner (e.g., Malwarebytes Free, ESET Online Scanner) for a second opinion.
• If you cannot remove the hijacker, consider creating a new Windows user profile or performing a Windows repair/refresh.

When to seek professional help

• Sensitive accounts were accessed.
• Persistent removal failures after multiple reputable tools.
• Evidence of broader system compromise beyond browser hijacking.

If you want, I can draft a short downloadable README or step-by-step checklist you can save and follow on your PC.