Erm... what??

[DottyDot]

Hello MNHQ

I'm getting random words in posts or thread titles that appear in red font, double underlined and when I click on them are links to ads. So if the word is "food" it'll link to some food advert or other.

Don't know if it's just my computer and will happen on other websites I go on, as obviously I only ever use Mumsnet or if it's a weird MN thing?

Very odd - has only started happening today and the words or phrases chosen seem entirely random? Any ideas as to why and how to get rid of it?

Thanks

Didn't they trial this once before? And took it off when people complained...

I'm not seeing it on my Macbook though.

It's not MN. It's a virus.

Run a scan.

It's probably something unpleasant on your computer that's hijacking your web browser. I suspect you'll see similar behaviour on other websites.

If you've got a Windows PC, go and get Malwarebytes and let it scan your computer. It should get rid of any nasties.

Agree with the others. You have a malware and need to run a scan.

Thanks all - will give it a go.

It's definitely not us! Hope you find out what it is soon.

Hmm - I've run the Microsoft security essentials scan and re-started the computer and it's still happening - and yes on other websites as well - sorry Mumsnet for wondering if it's you!

Will try that Malwarebytes link - thanks

OK - so I've run the scan via the link given on the thread, plus another one I'd forgotten we already had and it's still happening.

Any ideas why or should I post under the tech-y bit?

I think it could be Textenhance?

I had it on my computer for a while and it was a virus. I can't remember exactly how I got rid of it but will try and find the thread.

We can ask Tech and see if he has any advice, can't promise a quick response though but we can ask.

Here's the thread underlined links

Hi DottyDot, this sounds like it might be a toolbar or "browser helper object" that you've installed, maybe by accident. It might not count as malware per se, but they can be annoying / difficult to remove.

This microsoft page support.microsoft.com/kb/298931 might show you how you can disable it.

Awww - thanks Tech - I know you're stuck in a shed very busy so I appreciate it