Adware.LoadBlanks

Short bio

Adware.LoadBlanks is Malwarebytes’ detection name for a shortcut hijacker for Windows systems.

Type and source of infection

Adware.LoadBlanks alters the shortcuts to browsers on the user’s desktop, in the taskbar, and in the Start menu. The shortcuts are redirected to .BAT files in the folder %UserProfile%\AppData\Roaming\Browsers. These .BAT files then load loadblanks[dot]ru on the browser. The installer for the hijacker is offered on media download sites under false pretenses.

Protection

Malwarebytes protects systems infected with Adware.LoadBlanks by blocking the ad-rotators they hijack to.

Malwarebytes blocks nextlnk24.com

Remediation

Malwarebytes can detect and remove Adware.LoadBlanks without further user interaction.

1. Please download Malwarebytes to your desktop.
2. Double-click mb3-setup-consumer-{version}.exe and follow the prompts to install the program.
3. Then click Finish.
4. Once the program has fully updated, select Scan Now on the Dashboard. Or select the Threat Scan from the Scan menu.
5. If another update of the definitions is available, it will be implemented before the rest of the scanning procedure.
6. When the scan is complete, make sure that all Threats are selected, and click Remove Selected.
7. Restart your computer when prompted to do so.