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How to remove the Yahoo search virus from Chrome?

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  • 4 min read

Sometimes, malicious software can hijack your browser and alter your search settings without your consent. One common example is the Yahoo Search virus, which redirects your searches through Yahoo without your permission.

This article discusses the Yahoo search virus and various methods for removing it from your computer.

Below we have discussed:


What is the Yahoo search virus?

The Yahoo Search virus is a browser hijacker that forcefully changes a web browser’s default search engine settings, such as Google Chrome, and redirects search queries through Yahoo without the user’s consent. This malware often infiltrates users’ computers through deceptive installations, bundled software packages, or malicious browser extensions.

Once installed, the Yahoo Search virus can alter browser settings, inject unwanted advertisements into search results, and track users’ browsing activities. While not inherently malicious, the Yahoo Search virus can significantly disrupt users’ browsing experience and compromise online privacy.

Also read: Is Foliovia.com a scam?


Identifying the Yahoo search virus

Before proceeding with the removal process, confirming that your browser has been affected by the Yahoo Search virus is essential. Here are some common signs:

  • Your default search engine in Chrome has been changed to Yahoo without your consent.
  • You notice frequent redirects to Yahoo Search results, even when typing search queries directly into the address bar.
  • Unwanted pop-up ads and sponsored links appear on search result pages.
  • Your browser behaves sluggishly or crashes frequently.

How to remove it?

Here is how you can remove the Yahoo search virus and gain back control:

Change the search engine

To change the search engine on Chrome, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Open the Chrome browser on your computer.

Step 2: Click on the Menu (triple vertical dots) icon at the top right corner, and then in the dropdown menu, click Settings.

Step 3: In the sidebar, click on Search engine and then on the right side, click on the dropdown menu beside the Search engine used in the address bar and choose the search engine of your choice.

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Remove extensions

Malicious browser extensions can be the culprit behind Yahoo’s takeover. Head to Chrome’s extensions menu. Look for any unfamiliar or suspicious extensions, especially those related to search. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Click on the Triple-dot menu. In the dropdown menu, hover over Extensions and then click Manage Extensions.

Step 2: Click the Remove button under the extension you want to remove in the Extensions.


Uninstall the program

If resetting Chrome doesn’t fix the issue, a program installed on your computer may be causing the problem. You should check your computer for unwanted applications and uninstall suspicious or unnecessary ones.

Check out our article to learn various ways to uninstall apps in Windows 10 and 11

Delete temporary files

Malicious software is occasionally hidden within the “temp” folder. This tactic relies on users often neglecting to inspect this folder or run antivirus scans.

Check out our article to learn how to delete temporary files

Scan for Malware

Sometimes, the Yahoo Search Virus may be accompanied by other malware on your system. Running a thorough malware scan can help detect and remove any malicious programs. You can use reputable antivirus software for this purpose.

The Yahoo Search virus can disrupt your browsing experience and compromise online security. Following the steps outlined above, you can effectively remove this unwanted software from Google Chrome and restore your browser settings to normal. Additionally, practising safe browsing habits, such as avoiding suspicious websites and being cautious when installing software, can help prevent future infections.

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Akash Singh

Akash Singh

Akash is a law graduate who likes to go for bike rides on the weekends soul-searching for answers to his many existential questions. You can contact him here: singhakash95@pm.me

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