Steps to Get Rid of Viruses that Block Your Internet Browser

Are you one of the thousands of Internet users who have come across the “Your Browser Has Been Blocked” notification? In most cases, it appears to be a notice from the FBI, U.S. Cyber Security, or other national or local authority. Surely, you were fooled the first time around. However, this is nothing but an Internet scam. The culprits behind this malicious software are out to steal the money of unsuspecting Web surfers. In most of these popups, you will see a request for payment to unblock your computer and regain access to your encrypted files (which is done by some ransom-ware malware). If you’ve seen this, do not fall for it. It’s just a virus and like with any malware, it can be removed from your computer, so you can freely surf the net once again. This popup is a form of ransom-ware virus, known as Browlock.

How Browlock Works

The way these viruses work is through the use of JavaScript. Whenever a Web user tries to leave a page using this Javascript, a screen will pop up with the message “Your Browser Has Been Blocked.” It goes on to say that your files will be detained and criminal actions will be taken against you if you don’t pay a fine. In some cases, the fine is for browsing through pornographic Web sites. On these sites, there is an endless amount of popups, asking you if you’re sure you want to leave the page.

How to Get Rid of Browloack

The only way to get away from it is to close your entire browser window. You can do this by pressing ctrl, alt, and del at once and then selecting task manager, where you will be able to terminate your Internet browser. You should see the name of your browser followed by .exe (i.e. Safari.exe, Chrome.exe, Explorer.exe, Mozilla.exe, etc.).

If this method doesn’t work, another option is to disable your Javascript. Then, once you’re able to close the ransom-ware message, you can enable your Javascript once again. In the event that your browser directed you to a ransom-ware page, this could mean that your computer is now infected. Having Immunet or another virus software is necessary for keeping your computer safe from these malicious attacks.

Now is a good time to use virus software like Immunet to scan your computer for malware.

Steps for Disabling Your Javascript

If you’re unsure about how to disable Javascript on your computer, you’ll find the below steps to be helpful if you use Internet Explorer:

1. Look for the icon that looks like a gear, then choose “Internet Options”.
2. A window should open up. Click on the tab that says “Security”, then click on the world symbol that represents the Internet. Now, go to the “Custom Level…”button.
3. A list should open up. Search for the “Scripting” area, then look underneath Active Scripting and select the circle next to “Disable”.
4. Now, Javascript should be disabled for your Internet Explorer. This should allow you to close the Blockbrow windows. Use Immunet or another virus scanner to detect whether there’s any malware on your PC.
   

Firefox

If you’re using Firefox, you can use the following steps:

1. Look for the Firefox button at the top of the window and click it. Select the button that says “Options”.
2. Click on the “Content” tab, then uncheck “Enable JavaScript” box.
3. Run Immunet or another virus software to check for viruses.

Safari

Here are the steps for disabling JavaScript on Safari:

1. Find and click on the “Safari” tab at the top of the window.
2. Select Preferences on the list.
3. Select the tab that says “Security”.
4. Look for the Web Content area, then deselect “Enable JavaScript”.
5. Check your computer for malware using a virus scanner.

Chrome

Those who use Google Chrome can use these steps to eliminate Browlock windows:

1. Search for the “bars” icon on the right side of the upper screen.
2. Select “Settings” on the menu.
3. Look for the “Show advanced settings…” in the box.
4. Under Privacy, click on the “Content settings…” button.
5. Under JavaScript, click on the circle next to “Do not allow any site to run JavaScript”.
6. Run a virus scan on your computer to ensure it’s not infected.

There are various URLs associated with Browlock, including hxxp://Error.servepolice.biz, hxxp://Police-help.com and hxxp://alert.police-agent-secure.com. No matter where the threat comes from, it’s important to learn how to stop Browlock and disinfect your computer to safeguard your computer. You can use the info and steps above to help you steer clear of cyber criminals who are looking to harm your PC and your wallet.

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