Sometimes, I get frustrated when I open Chrome browser, and instead of Google, I see Yahoo. If this has happened to you, don’t worry. It could be malware—known as a browser hijacker. But, here’s the thing, we can fix it fast. Let’s go through it step-by-step.
Table of Contents
What’s a Browser Hijacker?
Imagine someone taking control of your car’s steering wheel while you’re driving. A browser hijacker is kind of like that—it redirects your browser without permission. You’re trying to go to one site, but it keeps sending you somewhere else (like Yahoo). It’s annoying, isn’t it?
Browser hijackers usually sneak in through sketchy extensions or software. Once they’re in, they change your default search engine, slow down your system, and bombard you with ads.
Here’s how to regain control.
Solution 1: Change Your Default Search Engine
First thing—reset Chrome to use Google as the default search engine again. It’s a simple fix:
- Open Chrome.
- Tap on those three little dots (top-right).
- Go to “Settings” and then “Search Engine.”
- Click on the Change button.
- Select Google and click on Set as default button.
- Click on “Manage search engines and site search.”
- Delete Yahoo by clicking the three dots next to it.
Now, Google should be back as your default search engine.
Solution 2: Get Rid of Sketchy Extensions
Extensions are handy, but they can also hide nasty stuff. If an unknown extension snuck in, it could be messing with your search.
- Type “chrome://extensions/” in your address bar.
- Look through the list—see anything suspicious?
- Hit “Remove” next to anything that doesn’t belong.
- Confirm by clicking “Remove” again.
That should clean up most problems.
Solution 3: Reset Chrome to Default
If nothing works, it’s time for a fresh start. Resetting Chrome puts it back to its original settings.
- Type “chrome://settings/” in the search bar.
- Scroll down to “Reset Settings.”
- Click “Restore settings to their original defaults.”
- Click on Reset settings to confirm.
After resetting, Chrome will work like new. Yahoo hijacker gone.
You don’t have to put up with Yahoo taking over your browser. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be back to Google in no time.