Browser Hijack - default-search.net

[theforestchicken]

Hi, hopefully i got this right this time. Apologies to the mods for not reading the sticky thread.

My Lenovo G50 laptop has been infected. My browser (chrome) re-directs to default-search DOT net when opened. I get a lot of re-directs now to various harmful URLs. I also noticed my system is running incredibly slow. None of the anti-malware programs out there worked. The browser also freezes and hangs quite often now as well, and folders and files can take a long time to open.

the FRST logs were too long, so i have attached them here. Thank you very much for any help!

[capnkrunch]

Hello theforestchicken

Apologies for the wait. I'm currently reviewing your logs and will reply with instructions shortly.

[capnkrunch]

Warning!
The steps presented in these posts are for this person and machine ONLY. Do not apply these steps to your own system, without the guidance of a trained malware removal helper. Doing so, may possibly damage your system, preventing it from starting.

Hello and welcome to the Malware Removal Forums

My name is capnkrunch and I will be helping you with your malware problems.

Before we begin, please read and follow these important guidelines, so things will proceed smoothly.

• The instructions being given are for YOUR computer and system only!
  Using these instructions on a different computer can cause damage to that computer and possibly render it inoperable!
• You must have Administrator rights, permissions for this computer.
• DO NOT run any other fix or removal tools unless instructed to do so.
• DO NOT install any other software (or hardware) during the cleaning process.
• Only post your problem at (1) one help site. Applying fixes from multiple help sites can cause problems.
• Print each set of instructions, if possible. Your Internet connection will not be available during some fix processes.
• Only reply to this thread, do not start another ... Please, continue responding, until I give you the "All Clean".
  Remember, absence of symptoms does mean the infection is all gone.
• Your security programs may give warnings for some of the tools I will ask you to use. Be assured, any links I give are safe.
• Failure to respond for 3 days, will result in your topic being closed.

Note: If you haven't done so already, please read this topic ALL USERS OF THIS FORUM MUST READ THIS FIRST where the conditions for receiving help here are explained.

Please be aware that removing Malware is a potentially hazardous undertaking. I will take care, not to knowingly suggest courses of action that might damage your computer. However it is impossible for me to foresee all interactions that may happen between the software on your computer and those we'll use to clear you of infection and I cannot guarantee the safety of your system. It is possible that we might encounter situations where the only recourse is to re-format and re-install your operating system, or to necessitate you taking your computer to a repair shop.

For your safety and protection, I would advise backing up all your important documents, personal data files and photos to a CD or DVD drive as some infections may render your computer unbootable during or before the disinfection process. The safest practice is not to backup any files with the following file extensions:
exe, .scr, .ini, .htm, .html, .php, .asp, .xml, .zip, .rar, .cab as they may be infected.

• Back up and restore your files
• How to Use All of Windows 10’s Backup and Recovery Tools
• How to use Ubuntu Live CD to Backup Files from your dead Windows Computer

[capnkrunch]

P2P Advisory!
IMPORTANT There are signs of one or more P2P (Peer to Peer) File Sharing Programs installed on your computer.
µTorrent

As long as you have the P2P program(s) installed, per Forum Policy, I can offer you no further assitance.
If you choose NOT to remove the program(s)...indicate that in your next reply and this topic will be closed.
Otherwise, there are instructions for removing it in the next step.
By using any form of P2P networking to download files you can anticipate infestations of malware to occur. The P2P program
itself, may be safe but the files may not... use P2P at your own risk! Keep in mind that this practice may be the source of your current malware infestation.
Reference... siting risk factors, using P2P programs: How to Prevent the Online Invasion of Spyware and Adware

Step one...

Uninstall Programs

• Press the Windows Key + R.
• Enter appwiz.cpl into the text box and click OK.
• Locate the following programs:
  µTorrent
• Press the Uninstall or Uninstall/Change button and carefully follow any prompts to uninstall the program.
  
  • Take care to read through any prompts completely! Some uninstallers may attempt to trick you into keeping the program.
  • Do this for every program listed.
  • Don't worry if you can't find one of the programs. Just be sure to let me know in your reply.
• Once finished reboot your computer.

Step two...

CKScanner
Please download CKScanner and save it to your Desktop.
This program should only be run once!
Make sure that CKScanner.exe is on the your desktop before running the application!

• Right click on the CKScanner.exe icon and select Run as administrator.
• Click the Search For Files button.
• When the scan is finished (the cursor hourglass disappears) click the Save List To File button.
  A text file will be created on your desktop named "ckfiles.txt"
• Click OK at the file saved message box. Double-click on the ckfiles.txt icon on your desktop.
• Please copy/paste the contents of ckfiles.txt in your next reply.

Please post each log separately to prevent it being cut off by the forum post size limiter.
Check each after you've posted it to make sure it's all present, if any log is cut off you'll have to post it in sections...

In your next reply please include:

• Did you have any problems with the instructions?
• Did you remove the P2P software?
• ckfiles.txt

[pgmigg]

Due to a lack of response, this topic is now closed.

If you still require help, please open a new thread in the "Infected? Virus, malware, adware, ransomware, oh my!" forum, include a fresh FRST log, and wait for a new helper.