You are one of the billion users of Google Chrome and use it every day for your personal or official purposes. Google Chrome has many linked applications including your Gmail, Google Docs, Facebook and many such other Google apps. Sometimes you may notice some issues with your Google Chrome and find it very annoying. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to remove malware from your Chrome.
How to Know If Chrome Is Infected?
It is very rare that Google Chrome catches a virus and doesn’t work correctly. It can be due to malware or some virus in your Chrome, or it can be the issue with your system’s software. However, if you notice the following signs, it is evident that your Google Chrome is infected. Let’s check them out-
- Pop-up windows come up on sites that usually don’t use pop-ups
- Your system’s fans start making some unusual noise when you open Chrome
- Chrome starts performing very slow as it consumes much of processor cycles
- It starts showing up unrelated advertisements on your chrome sites
- An unwanted browser toolbar comes up on your copy of chrome which you haven’t downloaded
- Similarly, you may notice an unknown application in the Application folder which you deliberately didn’t download
- Chrome’s search engine or homepage keeps switching by itself without
That’s not all; you might even get a notification about malware or an infected device. It can become very frustrating as all your work and personal data are stored in your chrome browser. We have listed some methods to fix your Chrome issues. Let’s check out how to remove a virus from Windows, Mac, and Android.
1. Remove Unwanted Malware or Programs from Chrome in Windows
Before we get to the solution to remove malware from Chrome in Windows, check for any suspicious programs on your system. Although Chrome suspects malware by itself on your PC, all you need to do is click the Remove button. You can also manually check for viruses. Here’s how-
- Launch Google Chrome
- Hit the Settings icon (three dots in the top-right corner)
- Click on the Advanced option (to the bottom)
- Now, Click on the ‘ Clean up computer ,’ under the Reset and clean up section
- Tap on the Find icon
- If Chrome finds any unwanted malware, it’ll ask you to remove the unwanted software. To do so, click Remove
If removing corrupt software doesn’t work for you, try to reset your Chrome settings. Let’s do it-
To Reset Chrome Settings in Windows-
- Open Chrome
- Click the Settings option (three dots to the upper-right)
- Hit the Advanced button (to the bottom)
- Now, under the Reset and cleanup option, hit the Reset Settings button and again click Reset Settings to confirm
Done! Resetting your Chrome settings might turn off some unnecessary extensions, you’ll have to turn on specific trusted extensions to run your Chrome usually. To turn on the Extensions, go to ‘More’ (three vertical dots) and go to More tools, select the Extensions icon. Now, turn on the trusted extensions.
How to Protect Your Chrome from Malware and Viruses?
Chrome can catch malware easily; this malware can be in any form including pop-up windows, Hyperlinks, Spyware or Adware . The main reason your Chrome becomes corrupt is due to downloading or surfing any corrupt sites or applications. It can also be due to a faulty update in your computer which can be converted into a virus.
As we say “ Prevention is always better than cure’ , you should ensure to avoid some aspects while browsing your Chrome to keep it free from Virus. Some of the main aspects are-
1. Ensure to install correct Extensions
Read about all the information of a browser extension before you install it.
2. Keep your Browser Updated
Chrome updates itself automatically. However, if you face such issues with your Chrome, manually install the Chrome updates.
3. Keep your Mac’s Firewall Turned On
Switch on the Firewall tab in the System Preferences option in the Security and Privacy section.
4. Don’t Visit Suspicious Links
Do not click any link in your mail until you are 100% sure about the link you are visiting. It might hack your personal data or even get end number of malware in your browser.
5. Ignore for Scam Warnings
You might see scam pop-ups notifying you that your system has a virus. Ignore these notifications and ensure that you keep all your private information in a password manager and not plain text.
Additionally, keep your Mac and Android updated regularly and also make sure to keep a backup so that you can recover your corrupted files and data.
Although it’s quite easy to get rid of malware from chrome, we suggest you keep your Chrome free from malicious codes in your system. Have any other issues with your Chrome? Drop down your queries in the comments section below.
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