'Why does my search engine keep changing to Yahoo?': How to reset your browser settings to remove a potential virus

• If your default search engine keeps changing to Yahoo suddenly when you traditionally use Chrome, Safari, or Firefox to surf the web, your computer is likely afflicted with malware.
• Manually resetting your browser's settings should stop the Yahoo redirect virus from obstructing your system.
• Yahoo is not to blame for the redirection — the malware has simply deposited you onto Yahoo's site after quickly funneling you through transitional domains, often collecting your data in the process.

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. But, you can easily resolve the issue -- here's how.

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If your default search engine keeps changing suddenly to Yahoo, your computer may have malware

The 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.

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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

1. With Safari open, click the word "Safari" at the top left bar on your screen, then click "Preferences."

2. Click the gear wheel for "Advanced" and make sure the "Show Develop menu in bar" box is checked.

3. Click "Develop" in the top task bar, then click "Empty Caches" in the dropdown.

4. Now click "History" from the top taskbar and clear all search history.

5. Finally, go back to "Preferences" and click "Privacy," then hit "Manage Website Data…" and "Remove All" on the pop-up window.

Now restart Safari and you should be all set.

How to reset Chrome browser settings

1. Open Chrome and click the three dots at the top right of the browser, then click "Settings."

2. Scroll down and click to expand the "Advanced" section, then click "Restore settings to their original defaults" under "Reset settings."

3. Click "Reset settings" on the popup window to confirm.

Wiping your browser settings will clear all cookies and extensions and reset your search engine, new tab page, startup page, and pinned tabs. It will not erase your saved passwords, history, or bookmarks. Restart Chrome and off you go.

How to reset Firefox browser settings

1. Open Firefox and then click "Help" and then "Troubleshooting information."

2. Click the button that says "Refresh Firefox."

3. In the popup window, click "Refresh Firefox" to confirm.

Your browser should now be clear of any malicious add-ons.

Related coverage from Tech Reference:

• How to change your default web browser on Windows 10, where you can install and switch between different browsers

• How to recover your Yahoo email account after you've deactivated it

• How to clear the Java cache on your Mac or PC to fix web browsing issues

• How to clear the cache on your Chromebook to keep your computer running smoothly

• How to clear the cache on your iPad to make it run more efficiently