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Hello everyone, first time asking for help here.
The issue started a couple weeks ago, when after doing a Google search another tab opened itself with the same search but on Bing. After checking the extensions, I noticed one called xHostGoogle, so I removed it but next time I started Chrome it was there again. I then tried several other methods which I’ll list below, but everytime even if it worked Chrome would shut down after a few minutes, then reopen with the same pages and the extension up an running again. Here’s a list of what I’ve tried thus far:
What I’ve found out:
That is all I’ve gathered thus far. The problem, in all fairness, is little more than a nuisance, but it’s fairly disturbing for me personally since I’ve always managed to either keep my machines clean or resolve any issues by myself. Thank you in advance for the help.
The issue started a couple weeks ago, when after doing a Google search another tab opened itself with the same search but on Bing. After checking the extensions, I noticed one called xHostGoogle, so I removed it but next time I started Chrome it was there again. I then tried several other methods which I’ll list below, but everytime even if it worked Chrome would shut down after a few minutes, then reopen with the same pages and the extension up an running again. Here’s a list of what I’ve tried thus far:
- removing the extension
- disabling the extension
- checking the extension’s ID and manually deleting it on Windows’ registry
- running Windows Defender and Malwarebytes, both of which found nothing
- running AdwCleaner and Junkware Removal Tool, both of which keep finding 2 to 3 issues, quarantining and deleting them, but for it to being as usual a few minutes later
- uninstalling Chrome, removing the leftover folders and files and re-installing
- disabling account sync, doing all of the above before and after
What I’ve found out:
- the issue is local, as my laptop on shared network with a synced Chrome does not have the issue
- the issue is not dependant on internet access
- the issue is cross-user, as I have two Windows 10 accounts running on the machine
- AdwCleaner says the problem is associated with a certain Speedbit, but no similar program is present on the list of installed apps, nor does it appear to be running or be allowed at the system startup
- when inspected, the extension leads to a hidden folder in Programs with 4 files in it, consisting of a transparent image file, one json file and two info files
- after the execution of the more successful methods (i.e. those who manage to make the extension go away at least for a few minutes), the extension comes back by closing any active Chrome window, processing for a few seconds, then reopening all windows and tabs, with the extension now running again
- the extension seems to be loaded everytime Chrome is launched, as for several seconds no Chrome button works at startup (bookmarks, options etc)
That is all I’ve gathered thus far. The problem, in all fairness, is little more than a nuisance, but it’s fairly disturbing for me personally since I’ve always managed to either keep my machines clean or resolve any issues by myself. Thank you in advance for the help.
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