Let’s get to the reasons behind your search engine being hijacked and explore ways to rectify the situation. There are two major reasons why this problem occurs, and we’ll also go over a bonus method at the end.
1. Browser Hijackers in Play
Browser Hijackers are malicious programs that are designed to modify a web browser’s settings without the user’s consent and redirect their online activities to unintended websites. One way to do so is by modifying the search engine or altering the homepage settings. So, for example, a certain browser hijacker can simply change your search engine from Google to Yahoo without explicit consent. The real question is: How does a browser get hijacked? To put it simply, Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs) are used as a key measure of browser hijacking. They can be in the form of a regular software or a browser extension. These refer to software programs that, when installed on a user’s computer, cause undesirable effects or changes without the user’s explicit consent. PUAs often come bundled with legitimate software downloads or are disguised as helpful tools. This tricks many users into unintentionally installing them. Once installed, these PUAs can take control of the browser and alter its configurations which leads to the frequent redirection to Yahoo. Certain web browsers such as earlier versions of Microsoft Edge are more susceptible to such hijackers. However, other browsers such as Brave and Google Chrome boast better security measures allowing protection against these malicious programs.
How to Fix This?
If the problem has started to occur more recently, a malicious software is to be blamed for this. However, this could be a software you recently installed in your system or an extension that you downloaded on your browser. Therefore, you need to uninstall it first and then attempt to change your search engine back to Google, or it will keep reverting back to Yahoo. To remove the malicious software: To remove the extensions: Select your browser from the tabs below to see specific steps for it.
If a bad software or extension was causing the problem, it should be fixed by now.
2. Limited Browser Security
One reason why this problem may arise is that many users have restricted the security settings of their browser. Web browsers come with built-in security features that help protect users from various online threats including browser hijackers. These security settings are designed to prevent unauthorized changes to the browser’s configuration, block access to malicious websites, and detect potentially harmful downloads.
However, some users disable the effectiveness of these security features to accommodate certain websites or applications that require more permissive settings. For instance, they might enable browser extensions from untrusted sources or ignore security warnings when visiting suspicious websites.
As a result, there can be unwanted changes in the default search engine, frequent redirects to unfamiliar websites, and exposure to potential security risks.
How to Fix This?
It’s simple. Don’t compromise on browser security at all. Enhance it to the maximum possible level to make sure that the browser is not compromised. Different browsers have different security protocols and levels to offer to the users. Select your browser from the tabs below to see specific steps for it.
3. Reset the Browser
In certain cases, the malware is too strong, or has already superseded the browser settings causing the search engine problem and many others too. In such a case, a browser reset remains the only viable option. Keep in mind that resetting your browser means that all previously stored data will be deleted. This might include passwords and other login info in some cases as well.
How to Fix This?
Select your browser from the tabs below to see specific steps for it.
EXTRA: Use Antivirus
Antivirus software is another option to try if none of the other methods work. Use whichever professional virus protection program you already own. Windows comes with a pretty potent antivirus tool already built in called Windows Defender.
To access Windows Defender:
To check your firewall status:
If you find the Windows Defender Firewall turned off, click on the appropriate network and turn it back on.
Although Windows Defender offers robust protection, you may choose to use third-party antivirus software. Options like Norton, Avast, and McAfee are widely recognized and offer comprehensive protection. Make sure you install only trusted software on your computer and stay away from any tech support scams.
Run the antivirus software and let it scan your computer entirely, don’t select one of the quick scan options. The scan results should bring back some revealing information and you can then delete or quarantine the infected parts of your system accordingly.
Conclusion
It can be incredibly frustrating to find your browser’s search engine constantly reverting back to Yahoo or another service, especially when you prefer using Google. Thankfully, with the steps outlined in this guide, you can tackle this issue effectively.
Going forward, remember to be extra cautious when downloading new software or browser extensions, as these are often the main culprits behind such changes. Stay safe online by maintaining good digital hygiene and utilizing robust security measures.
