- If your search engine keeps changing to Yahoo, it may be due to the browser hijacker virus.
- Hackers use the Yahoo search redirect virus to earn revenue generated by clicks on Yahoo.
- To get rid of the Yahoo virus, reset your browser settings for Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.
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Though Yahoo is a legitimate search engine, if it isn't your preferred site, it can be frustrating to have it continuously pop up every time you open your internet browser.
In fact, if your search engine keeps changing to Yahoo, it may be due to a browser hijacker virus. And even though it sounds scary, there's actually a simple fix. Here's how to get rid of it.
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What is a browser hijacker virus?
A browser hijacker virus is a malicious piece of code that modifies your browser's settings behind your back. By hijacking your browser, the virus redirects you – without your permission – to websites that are often malicious in nature.
On top of that, a browser hijacker virus is also used as a means to infect your computer with other types of malware. For example, it might install spyware on your computer behind the scenes, allowing the hacker who is monitoring the malware to steal your personal and financial information.
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If your default search engine keeps changing suddenly to Yahoo, your computer may have malware
This problem can likely be attributed to malware — specifically, the Yahoo search redirect virus. This virus works by rapidly redirecting your browser to an intermediary site (or sometimes to multiple sites) and then depositing you onto the Yahoo site.
Any revenue then generated via clicks made on Yahoo will direct some revenue back to those intermediary sites. The hackers responsible for the virus also use it to collect your data and track your internet activity.
So it's not Yahoo's fault, but it is an issue you need to clear up. You don't want to be forced to use Yahoo by malware that can track you and potentially harm your computer.
There are many ways your system can contract the redirect malware, but the solution is the same for most browsers: reset your browser's settings.
How to reset Safari browser settings
How to reset Safari browser settings
1. Click Safari in the menu bar at the top of your screen.
2. In the menu, click Preferences.
3. Select the Advanced tab – the option that looks like two gears.
4. Make sure the Show Develop menu in the menu bar box is checked.
5. Click Develop in the menu bar, and then select Empty Caches.
6. Click History in the menu bar, and then select Clear History.
7. In the pop-up, click the dropdown next to Clear and select a time period – between the last hour, today, today and yesterday, and all history. Then, click Clear History.
8. Go back to Safari's Preferences.
9. Select the Privacy tab – the option that looks like a hand.
10. Click Manage Website Data.
11. In the pop-up, click Remove All.
Now restart Safari and you should be all set.
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How to reset Chrome browser settings
1. Open Chrome on your computer.
2. Click the more icon – the three vertical dots – in the top right corner of the browser window.
3. Click Settings in the menu.
4. In the left side menu, click Reset and clean up.
5. In the right panel, click Restore settings to their original defaults.
6. Click Reset settings in the pop-up to confirm.
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How to reset Firefox browser settings
1. Open Firefox on your computer.
2. Click the hamburger menu – the three horizontal lines that look like a burger – in the top right corner of the browser window.
3. In the menu, click Help and then More troubleshooting information.
4. Click the Refresh Firefox button.
5. In the popup window, click Refresh Firefox to confirm.
Your browser should now be clear of any malicious add-ons.
Steven John
Freelance Writer
Steven John is a freelance writer living near New York City by way of 12 years in Los Angeles, four in Boston, and the first 18 near DC. When not writing or spending time with his wife and kids, he can occasionally be found climbing mountains. His writing is spread across the web, and his books can be found at www.stevenjohnbooks.com.
I specialize in cybersecurity and digital threats, particularly in the realm of browser hijackers and malware. My expertise extends to understanding the mechanisms behind browser infections, redirect viruses, and the methods hackers use to exploit vulnerabilities within browsers and operating systems.
The article provided highlights a common issue faced by internet users: the unwarranted change of their default search engine to Yahoo due to a browser hijacker virus. This type of malware alters browser settings without permission, leading to continuous redirection to potentially harmful websites. It's important to note that Yahoo itself isn't the problem; instead, it's a symptom of an underlying malicious software issue.
Browser hijacker viruses serve multiple purposes for hackers. They generate revenue through clicks on redirected sites, potentially install spyware to collect sensitive information, and pave the way for further malware infections on the affected device.
The primary solution outlined in the article involves resetting browser settings to eliminate the unwanted changes caused by the browser hijacker. The steps provided are specific to different browsers:
For Safari:
- Access Safari Preferences.
- Navigate to the Advanced tab, ensuring the Develop menu in the menu bar is checked.
- Clear browsing history and data under History and Privacy settings.
For Chrome:
- Access Chrome Settings.
- Choose the option to Restore settings to their original defaults under Reset and clean up.
For Firefox:
- Access Firefox's Help menu and navigate to More troubleshooting information.
- Use the Refresh Firefox option to reset the browser settings and eliminate malicious add-ons.
Resetting the browser settings effectively removes the unwanted changes caused by the browser hijacker, restoring the default settings and eliminating any potentially harmful extensions or modifications.
Understanding these steps and being proactive in maintaining browser security is crucial to preventing such browser hijacking incidents and safeguarding personal information from malicious exploitation. If users encounter persistent issues or suspect more complex malware infections, seeking professional assistance or using reputable antivirus software is recommended for thorough system cleanup and protection.
