There could be several reasons why your browser keeps defaulting to Yahoo. One of the most common reasons is the presence of a browser hijacker on your computer. A browser hijacker is a type of malware that alters your browser settings without your consent. It often changes your default search engine to search.yahoo.com and may also modify your homepage and new tab page.
Browser hijackers usually get installed on your computer when you download and install free software from untrustworthy sources. These software packages often come bundled with additional programs, and if you don’t carefully review the installation process, you may inadvertently install the browser hijacker along with the desired software.
Once the browser hijacker is installed, it takes control of your browser settings and redirects your searches to Yahoo. It does this to generate traffic and advertising revenue for Yahoo. Additionally, the browser hijacker may display unwanted ads, pop-ups, and sponsored links in your search results.
To stop your browser from defaulting to Yahoo, you need to remove the browser hijacker and restore your browser settings. Here are some steps you can take to fix the issue:
1. Remove suspicious browser extensions: Open your browser’s settings or preferences and navigate to the extensions or add-ons section. Look for any unfamiliar or suspicious extensions and remove them. Pay attention to extensions that may have been installed around the same time you started experiencing the Yahoo default search issue.
2. Reset your browser settings: Each browser has a reset option that can help restore the default settings. This will remove any unwanted changes made by the browser hijacker. Refer to your browser’s documentation or support website to find the reset option and follow the instructions.
3. Change your default search engine: After resetting your browser settings, go to the search engine settings and make sure your desired search engine is set as the default. If Yahoo is still listed as the default search engine, remove it and set your preferred search engine instead.
4. Scan your computer for malware: Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware software to scan your computer for any malicious programs. These programs can help detect and remove any remaining traces of the browser hijacker or other malware that may be causing the issue.
5. Be cautious when downloading software: To prevent future browser hijacking incidents, be careful when downloading and installing software from the internet. Always download from trusted sources and pay attention to the installation process. Read the terms and conditions, and opt-out of any additional software or changes to your browser settings.
By following these steps, you should be able to remove the browser hijacker and stop your browser from defaulting to Yahoo. Remember to keep your browser and antivirus software up to date to minimize the risk of future infections.