How to remove search.strtpoint.com. It seems a new version of installmac

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Level 1

8 points

How to remove search.strtpoint.com. It seems a new version of installmac

Hi,

Two days ago, I accidentally downloaded and installed Genieo. It seems that I mistook it for Firefox. Then, I did some research on how to remove it from my MacBook Pro. I found a few websites, including Apple Support Communities, on how to remove 'installmac.' My browser is hijacked by search.strtpoint.com, but since this site mentions 'installmac' on the right-hand side (please see the screenshot below), they seem to be the same. I followed all the directions that I found: used 'uninstall Genieo,' changed the setting of my homepage, deleted all the files that are seemingly related to Genieo or installmac. But every time I boot my Macbook, the first page on the browser, whether Chrome or Safari, is always search.strtpoint.com with 'installmac' mentioned on the side (Again, the screenshot below). How can I remove it? This really bugs me. I also don't feel safe at all about internet security every time this shows up on my screen. Please help.

MacBook Pro, OS X Mavericks (10.9)

Posted on Aug 19, 2014 7:27 PM

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Answer 1

Best reply

MadMacs0

Level 5

5,221 points

Aug 20, 2014 12:27 AM in response to midtownguru

Sorry you didn't find the correct set of instructions. The uninstall Genieo app does not remove all it's components, so it's not to be trusted.

TheSafeMac's Adware Removal Tool is written by the forum's security guru and an colleague of mine. It will safely and efficiently remove most currently known adware that you may have accidentally installed. Be sure to reset your home page and search engine on each browser after removal, if necessary to get you back where this all started.

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Answer 2

midtownguru Author

Level 1

8 points

Aug 22, 2014 6:35 PM in response to MadMacs0

Thanks MadMacs0.

I tried Adware Removal tool. That took care of Safari. But the problem persists in Chrome. Even after I reset home page and search engine, I still see the same Genieo at the beginning. Just once at the beginning. Curiously, when I open a new tab or new window without closing the Chrome application itself, Genieo never appears. Any idea?

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Answer 3

midtownguru Author

Level 1

8 points

Aug 22, 2014 6:52 PM in response to midtownguru

I found that Chrome has another setting for 'On start up.' I changed it. Now my browsers are Genieo-free.

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Answer 4

MadMacs0

Level 5

5,221 points

Aug 22, 2014 7:08 PM in response to midtownguru

I've asked thomas_r. to drop by, but it's late where he is, so it will probably be a few hours before he is able to join us. I know he's working on a new approach to identify Firefox and Chrome extension names, and I can only guess that Genieo/Omnibar has morphed itself again with regard to your situation.

In the meanwhile, select "Preferences..." from the Chrome menu or type <Command>-<Comma>. In the upper left corner of the new "Chrome Settings" tab or window that opens click on "Extensions". List any that you don't recall having installed.

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Answer 5

MadMacs0

Level 5

5,221 points

Aug 22, 2014 7:10 PM in response to midtownguru

midtownguru wrote:

Now my browsers are Genieo-free.

Great, then I'll waive thomas_r. off.

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Answer 6

BmrDrvr

Level 1

4 points

Sep 10, 2014 7:10 AM in response to midtownguru

Unless I'm mistaken my mystery browser arrived under the guise of a Flash update. So now I'm searching for approved methods of removing this crap.

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Answer 7

MadMacs0

Level 5

5,221 points

Sep 10, 2014 9:40 AM in response to BmrDrvr

BmrDrvr wrote:

now I'm searching for approved methods of removing this crap.

The previously recommended Adware Removal Tool has just been improved and is being replaced by the new AdMedic app, for safe, efficient removal of most all adware infections.

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Answer 8

prcoasis

Level 1

0 points

Nov 14, 2014 11:16 AM in response to MadMacs0

safari preference extention omnibar delete problem solves

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Answer 9

Nov 28, 2014 11:13 PM in response to MadMacs0

This worked (I'm Lion user by the way)

I got desperate when I noticed I installed a malware! Thank you very much!!!

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Answer 10

Dec 11, 2014 1:43 PM in response to prcoasis

This simple method worked for me. Although I will say, that as soon as I removed/uninstalled .. Adobe Flash update was prompted .. Hmmmm?

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Answer 11

MadMacs0

Level 5

5,221 points

Dec 11, 2014 1:54 PM in response to BillTheDogWalker

BillTheDogWalker wrote:

This simple method worked for me. Although I will say, that as soon as I removed/uninstalled .. Adobe Flash update was prompted .. Hmmmm?

Probably just a coincidence. Adobe did update FlashPlayer to v16 on Tuesday.

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Answer 12

Feb 14, 2015 5:49 PM in response to midtownguru

For anyone searching for the answer to this question, this IS the solution. I also used all the removal tools as advertised, but still had a problem with Chrome, and only when I first opened it. There is a setting in the Chrome browser called "On Startup." If you are seeing this problem, the radio button with the description "Open a specific page or set of pages" will be highlighted. If you click the link "Set pages," you will see the page that has been frustrating you up to this point. Click the "X" to the right of page to remove it and you will free from this frustration. From this point, set this however you want.

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Answer 13

Aug 18, 2015 5:54 AM in response to rogue0503

bumping - worked for me today (although now it's called "Malwarebytes Anti-Malware"

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