Safari keeps opening new windows automatically
If you’re experiencing Safari automatically opening new windows, you’re not alone. It can be frustrating to deal with, but there are ways to address this issue.
Understanding Unwanted Software and Adware
If Safari keeps opening new windows automatically, you may have unwanted software or adware installed on your device. Unwanted software can cause these pop-ups to appear without your consent. To address this issue, you will need to identify and remove the source of the problem.
One common way to unintentionally install adware is by downloading software from untrustworthy sources. Be cautious when downloading programs from the internet, and always opt for trusted sources. Additionally, some websites may contain hidden adware that can infect your device when visited.
To remove unwanted software and adware from your Safari browser, you can use tools like Malwarebytes. Run a full system scan to detect and eliminate any malicious programs that may be causing the pop-up windows to open. It is also recommended to update your browser and plugins, such as Adobe Flash Player, to prevent vulnerabilities that could be exploited by adware.
If the issue persists, consider resetting Safari to its default settings. This will remove any extensions or plugins that may be causing the pop-ups to appear. You can also try clearing your browsing history and cache to ensure that no malicious scripts are stored on your device.
In some cases, the automatic opening of new windows could be a sign of a more serious malware infection. If you suspect that your device is infected with a virus, seek professional help to thoroughly clean your system and improve network security. Be vigilant when browsing the web and avoid clicking on suspicious links or ads to prevent future infections.
Preventing Unwanted Pop-Ups and Extensions
- Clear browsing data:
- Open Safari and go to the History menu.
- Select Clear History and choose the desired time range.
- Make sure Browsing History and Website Data are selected.
- Click Clear History to confirm.
- Disable pop-ups:
- Go to Safari Preferences and select the Websites tab.
- Click on Pop-up Windows on the left sidebar.
- Adjust the settings to Block and Notify or Block for specific websites.
- Remove unwanted extensions:
- Open Safari and go to Preferences.
- Select the Extensions tab.
- Uninstall any extensions that you do not recognize or trust.
Removing Malicious Files and Extensions
To remove malicious files and extensions causing Safari to open new windows automatically, follow these steps:
First, close any unnecessary tabs and windows in Safari to focus on the issue at hand.
Next, go to Safari’s Preferences by clicking on Safari in the menu bar, then selecting Preferences.
In the Preferences window, go to the Extensions tab and carefully review the list of installed extensions. Remove any suspicious or unfamiliar extensions by clicking on them and selecting Uninstall.
After removing extensions, go to the General tab in Preferences and make sure the homepage and new windows settings are set to a trusted website.
If the issue persists, run a malware scan using Malwarebytes or a similar reputable antivirus program to detect and remove any malicious files on your system.
It’s also a good idea to update Adobe Flash Player and other plugins regularly to prevent vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malware.
Consider resetting Safari to its default settings if the problem continues, but be aware that this will delete saved passwords, browsing history, and other data.
If all else fails, seek professional help or contact Apple Support for further assistance in resolving the issue to ensure network security on your MacBook or MacBook Pro.
FAQ
How do I stop Safari from opening new windows?
To stop Safari from opening new windows, you can press and hold the Shift key while opening Safari or adjust the system setting to “Close windows when quitting an app.”
Why does Safari open links in new windows?
Safari opens links in new windows to keep the original page open while viewing the new page, especially for advertisements or when the website owner wants to maintain the current page. This behavior can be adjusted in Safari’s settings to have all links open in the same window or tab.
Why is my Mac opening new windows instead of tabs?
Your Mac is opening new windows instead of tabs because of your Finder settings. You can change this by going to Finder > Settings > General and selecting “Open folders in tabs instead of new windows.”
Why does Safari keep opening random tabs?
Safari keeps opening random tabs because unwanted software or browser extensions may be causing it. To address this issue, use a reliable anti-malware or antivirus software to scan your system for any malicious programs and remove them.
