Sometimes a problem with Firefox may be a result of malware installed on your computer, that you may not be aware of.

You can try these free programs to scan for malware, which work with your existing antivirus software:

• Microsoft Safety Scanner
• MalwareBytes' Anti-Malware
• Anti-Rootkit Utility - TDSSKiller
• AdwCleaner (for more info, see this alternate AdwCleaner download page)
• Hitman Pro
• ESET Online Scanner

Microsoft Security Essentials is a good permanent antivirus for Windows 7/Vista/XP if you don't already have one.

Further information can be found in the Troubleshoot Firefox issues caused by malware article.

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Often (not always) this behavior is from installing certain software, toolbars that changes things like start page, default search engine, etc.

"Free" Toolbars are usually NOT free - they're junk that often cause problems. Even free programs that offer "free" addons - if you don't opt out, can hijack certain things. If you have them, it's best to uninstall.

Sometimes malware or adware picked up on sites (simply by loading certain pages) or from downloaded files may do this.

Start w/ easiest fix (if it works): In Firefox > Help (can hit Alt + H) > Troubleshooting, click on Show Folder. Copy profile folder path.

Close Fx. Open the folder containing your Fx profile http://kb.mozillazine.org/Profile_folder_-_Firefox

Find the 'prefs.js' file in the main Fx (current) profile folder. Make a copy (BU) of it to a safe location. You should also be regularly backing up current profile. http://kb.mozillazine.org/Profile_backup See: Mozbackup in the KB.

Open the prefs.js file in a text editor. Use 'Find' feature to search for entries with "start" "startup" "homepage", etc. Like, "browser.startup.homepage" You may see that the value has been changed to one of the names you mentioned. If so, can R-click the entry & modify. Change the value to a page you want or "about:blank" for blank home page.

The home page can be changed from Options > General. Enter desired page & click OK. but this way may not override browser hijacking malware / adware.

But, even if this works, problem could come back if don't find / remove the cause.

Sometimes, easiest way is to create a new, clean profile (I've had to). Then, don't install any crapware. Be VERY careful when installing ANY programs. They often include "extras" - checked to install by default.

You often must opt out of these, not opt in. The BEST (sometimes only) way to avoid the "extras" is use "Custom Installation" option when installing. Then read every installer page & notice carefully - don't "click past" anything.

Thank you for your help. It was malware that came through somehow. Shame people don't have better things to do than spread stuff like that. Very appreciative. Linda Keon