How to Remove Yandex Search on Mac [2024 Guide]
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Has your web browser’s default search engine mysteriously changed to Yandex, leaving you puzzled and searching for answers? You’re not alone.
This sudden switch is typically the work of browser hijackers, which subtly alter your settings to promote specific sites without your consent.
This article dives into the reasons behind these unwelcome changes and provides detailed steps for reclaiming control of your browser from Yandex’s grip.
Why does Yandex appear as your default search engine?
Browser hijackers are the culprits behind unwelcome modifications to various browser settings, including the default search engine used.
Designed to promote certain sites, like Yandex.ru, these sneaky pieces of software tweak your browser settings without your permission.
They reset your homepage, new tab window, and default search engine to Yandex. This not only disrupts your web browsing experience but also forces you to use this search engine for all your queries.
Understanding the Yandex search engine phenomenon
While Yandex.ru itself is a legitimate search engine, problems arise when browser hijackers misuse it as a tool for revenue generation.
These hijackers exploit Yandex to display advertisements and reroute your searches through it, benefiting from each click and search query you make.

This situation is particularly grating because the software prevents you from easily reclaiming your browser’s original settings. Additionally, these hijackers often come bundled with free software, sneaking onto your computer during the installation process.
Thus, it’s essential to pay close attention during software installs and opt for custom installation options to avoid unwanted surprises.
Is Yandex affecting your browsing experience?
When your browser continually redirects you to Yandex, it’s a sign that your system is compromised by a browser hijacker.
This usually begins after unknowingly installing malicious software, often disguised as legitimate applications. These programs not only change your browser settings but can also track your browsing activity, collecting and possibly sharing your personal data without consent.
The situation escalates from a mere inconvenience to a privacy concern, leaving you vulnerable to more severe threats like identity theft or financial loss.
Removing Yandex with SpyHunter
In the fight against browser hijackers, SpyHunter offers a comprehensive solution that’s both user-friendly and effective.
It effortlessly detects and eliminates browser hijackers. SpyHunter’s continuous updates ensure it stays ahead of new and evolving threats, providing real-time protection against unwanted redirections.
- Download SpyHunter for free here and install the application.
- Start SpyHunter and perform a full system scan.
- When the scan is complete, SpyHunter will display a list of all malicious files detected on your Mac.

- Select the Yandex browser hijacker from the list and proceed to remove it.
Having an automated tool that handles the removal of browser hijackers, other unwanted apps, and malware can be a great help in dealing with threats faster and with less manual work involved.
Steps to manually remove Yandex from browsers
Unwanted extensions or changes Yandex makes in your browser can slow down your online experience and even compromise your online security.
Here’s a detailed guide on removing Yandex from major browsers, ensuring a smoother and safer browsing experience.
Eliminate Yandex from Google Chrome
- Open Google Chrome, click on the three dots in the upper-right corner to access the
Settings
menu. - Select
Extensions
to see all installed extensions. - Look for Yandex or any unfamiliar extension you didn’t install yourself.
- Click
Remove
to delete these extensions. - Finally, go back to the
Settings
menu, selectOn startup
, and ensure your preferred homepage is set.
Purge Yandex from Mozilla Firefox
- Launch Mozilla Firefox and open the menu by clicking on the three horizontal bars at the top-right corner.
- Choose
Add-ons
and then navigate toExtensions
. - Identify any extension related to Yandex or other unfamiliar ones and click
Remove
to eliminate them. - After removing the unwanted extensions, reset your homepage to your preferred URL in the general settings.
Removing Yandex from Safari
- First, open Safari, then click on
Safari
in the menu bar, and selectPreferences
. - Go to the
Extensions
tab to view all installed extensions. - Find Yandex or any extension you don’t recognize and click
Uninstall
. - Additionally, change your homepage in the
General
tab to your preferred starting page if it was altered.
Uninstall Yandex from Microsoft Edge
- Open Microsoft Edge, click on the three dots in the upper-right corner to open the settings menu.
- Select
Extensions
and then clickManage extensions
in the dropdown menu. - Find and remove any extensions related to Yandex or those you did not voluntarily add. Simply click on
Remove
to delete them. - After cleaning up extensions, go to
Settings
, chooseStart, home, and new tabs
, and set your desired homepage.
Regardless of the browser you use, keeping it clean from unwanted extensions and changes not only ensures optimal performance but also enhances your online security.
In instances where manual removal is challenging, or you suspect your system may be compromised further, scanning with a dedicated tool like SpyHunter can provide peace of mind by detecting and removing malware.
Remove Yandex application and leftovers
You should also search your Applications
folder for any applications named Yandex or for apps you do not remember installing and remove them by dragging them onto the Trash
.

Next, use Finder
and click Go > Go to Folder
in the menu. This will bring up a search box. Paste the following directory locations into the field to explore them one by one:
/Library/LaunchAgents/
/Library/Application Support/
/Library/LaunchDaemons/
~/Library/LaunchAgents/
~/Library/Application Support/

Search those folders for any files or subfolders that are linked with Yandex and delete them, then empty the Trash
.
Tips for a safer browsing experience
Keeping your browsing experience clear of unwanted redirects and search engines, like those that lead to Yandex.ru without your consent, is paramount for a smooth user experience.
To achieve this, one needs to adopt several advanced strategies. These strategies not only ensure a cleaner browsing experience but also bolster your online security.
Adjusting browser settings to prevent unwanted search engines
One of the most straightforward yet effective measures is to take control of your browser settings. Adjusting these settings can block unauthorized changes by browser hijackers. Here is how you can do it:
- Set your preferred search engine: Choose a search engine you trust and set it as your default. Most browsers allow this under their settings menu.
- Review extensions regularly: Periodically check the extensions or plugins installed on your browser. Remove any that you did not intentionally download or that seem suspicious.
- Activate browser protection features: Utilize built-in browser protections. For example, enabling settings that warn you about suspicious websites can prevent inadvertent visits to malicious sites.
By taking these steps, you significantly reduce the risk of hijackers rerouting your search queries to sites like Yandex.ru.
Spotting and avoiding potential browser hijackers in the future
The internet is replete with potential threats that can compromise your browsing experience. Recognizing and sidestepping browser hijackers is crucial. Here’s what you can do:
- Download software cautiously: Always download from official or verified sources. Unofficial sites may bundle software with unwanted hijackers.
- Opt for custom installation: When installing new software, select the custom or advanced installation options. This choice allows you to decline additional installs, like toolbars or homepage resets.
- Be wary of deceptive ads: Ads that appear harmless can redirect to harmful sites. If you encounter these, it’s time to inspect your device for unwanted applications or extensions.
Taking these advanced steps towards safeguarding your online activity not only enhances your browsing experience but also protects your personal information from potential cyber threats.
By adjusting browser settings and staying vigilant against hijackers, you maintain control over your internet experience and security.