Search engine taken over??????

[bozzchem]

It seems that my search engine has been taken over. Unless I specify an engine, it goes straight to an engine I have no choice about.

I guess this must be the latest and greatest way to take over a system.

Does anyone know how to get rid of it?

[glc]

Can you please be more specific?

[bozzchem]

I'm using IE 5.5

Somehow my search engine has been "taken over".

When I click the customize button and select "Use the Search Assistant for smart searching" my search area is no longer what you'd expect. This is the second time I've seen this happen. Obviously I need to be more careful about where I surf.

Where on the system is the Search Assistant info? Someone has thrown me a curveball that I need to remove.

I hope this clarifies things somewhat. If you've seen what I'm talking about, trust me you'll understand this.

Imagine clicking your search button and getting someones webpage as your response.

[glc]

After you hit the Customize button, click on Autosearch Settings - I bet you will find the answer in there.

Run a full virus and trojan scan - and try to remember if you have installed any software lately such as Bonzi Buddy or Gator or any other "adware" that just loves to take over your browser.

[bozzchem]

I wish it was that simple.

The way it is now, the only way I can use my search engine is when it is set to use only one specific type.

I can no longer use Search Assistant.

I may be reloading IE soon..

Where is the search information stored? There has to be a JAVA or some other program that was slipped in.

Norton says my system is clean.

[bozzchem]

Problem solved.

All I had to do was reset my preferences in IE.

Thanks for your help, though. Forums like this are essential to keep spreading knowledge.

If this should happen to you, now you'll know what to do!!