How Do I Remove Adware From Firefox?

Here's how to remove adware from your Firefox browser, covering both resetting Firefox and manually removing unwanted extensions:

Method 1: Resetting Firefox

Resetting Firefox can often remove persistent adware by restoring the browser to its default settings.

1. Open the Firefox Menu: Click the hamburger menu (three horizontal lines) in the upper-right corner of the Firefox window.
2. Access Help: Click the Help icon (question mark) at the bottom of the menu.
3. Troubleshooting Information: Select Troubleshooting Information from the Help menu. This opens a new tab with technical information.
4. Refresh Firefox: In the upper-right corner of the Troubleshooting Information page, you should see a "Give Firefox a tune up" section. Click Refresh Firefox.
5. Confirm Refresh: A confirmation window will appear. Click Refresh Firefox to proceed. Firefox will close, reset itself, and then reopen.

Method 2: Manually Removing Adware Extensions

If resetting Firefox is not desired, or if the adware persists, manually removing suspicious extensions is the next step.

1. Open the Firefox Menu: Again, click the hamburger menu (three horizontal lines) in the upper-right corner.
2. Access Add-ons and Themes: Select Add-ons and Themes. This opens the Add-ons Manager.
3. Select Extensions: In the Add-ons Manager, click on Extensions in the left sidebar.
4. Identify Suspicious Extensions: Carefully review the list of installed extensions. Look for any extensions that:
   • You don't recognize.
   • Have vague or misleading descriptions.
   • You didn't intentionally install.
   • Have unusual permissions.
5. Remove the Extension: For any suspicious extension, click the three dots next to its name and select Remove.
6. Restart Firefox: After removing the extensions, restart Firefox to ensure the changes take effect.

Important Considerations

• Be cautious: Before removing an extension, if you are unsure about its purpose, try searching online for the extension's name to see if it is known adware.
• Multiple passes: Sometimes, adware installs multiple components. Run a full scan with a reputable anti-malware program after removing the extensions and/or resetting Firefox. Consider using programs like Malwarebytes.
• Check Plugins: Though less common these days, also check the "Plugins" section in the Add-ons Manager (if it's still available in your Firefox version) for suspicious entries. Disable any you don't recognize.
• Homepage and Search Settings: Adware may change your homepage and default search engine. After removing the adware, verify and, if necessary, reset these settings in Firefox's options. To do this:
  1. Open the Firefox Menu.
  2. Select "Settings".
  3. In the "Home" tab, check your homepage.
  4. In the "Search" tab, check your default search engine.

By following these steps, you should be able to effectively remove adware from your Firefox browser. Remember to be vigilant about the websites you visit and the software you download to prevent future adware infections.