I have just bought an Acer One for casual use. When I open a browser (or other file), y5y5 is repeatedly typed into the search bar (or password box). I have Windows 10 Defender on but want to download my antivirus program. I cannot get to the relevant website because of this problem. I have run a Defender scan but this finds no problem.
That sounds very weird. What happens if you open Notepad ? Does it start entering the same characters on its own ?
I'm assuming that if its running W10 then you have Edge and IE browsers installed by default. Does it do the same for both browsers.
If its brand new and out of the box then you have nothing lost trying a factory reset (you would have to search to see how that is done on the Acer One) or just return as faulty.
If the y5y5 just appears in the browser's address box and nowhere else (Notepad, for example) then it's possible that some adware has got onto the system and is trying (unsuccessfully) to redirect you to a gaming website - y5y5 seems to be associated with a game of some sort.
Did you buy this new or used? If used, then there's more of a chance that it's adware.
Try a scan with AdwCleaner.
https://www.malwarebytes.com/adwcleaner/
Thanks for your replies.
It’s the same on everything - including Notepad. I bought the refurbished laptop from Argos. I have now managed to install McAfee and am running a full scan.
I will try the adware cleaner next.
That strongly suggests a hardware fault. I'd take it back. Even if you bought it online, seems you can take it back to an Argos store.
https://www.argos.co.uk/help/returns-and-refunds/
I think I’ve found the problem. It seems to be the wireless mouse/connector. I’ve tried another and the problem goes away!��
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