If you’re a Mac user, you may have encountered the pesky search marquis virus. This malware can hijack your browser and cause unwanted pop-ups and redirects. Not only is it annoying, but it can also put your personal information at risk. In this article, we’ll discuss how to remove search marquis from your Mac and prevent it from coming back.
What is Search Marquis?
Search Marquis is a browser hijacker that targets Mac users. It typically infects your computer through software bundles or fake Adobe Flash updates. Once installed, it changes your browser’s default search engine to searchmarquis.com and redirects your searches to Yahoo. It also displays unwanted pop-ups and ads, making it difficult to browse the internet.
Why is it Harmful?
While search marquis may seem like a harmless annoyance, it can actually put your personal information at risk. The pop-ups and ads it displays may contain malicious links that can lead to phishing scams or malware downloads. Additionally, it can track your browsing activity and collect sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers.
How to Remove Search Marquis from Mac
If you suspect that your Mac has been infected with search marquis, here are some steps you can take to remove it.
Step 1: Quit Your Browser
The first step is to quit your browser to prevent any further damage. You can do this by clicking on the browser’s name in the menu bar and selecting “Quit Browser Name”. If the browser is unresponsive, you can force quit it by pressing Command + Option + Esc and selecting the browser from the list.
Step 2: Delete Browser Extensions
Search marquis may have installed browser extensions without your knowledge. To check for and remove these extensions, follow these steps:
- Open your browser and go to the “Preferences” or “Settings” menu.
- Select the “Extensions” tab.
- Look for any suspicious extensions and click on the trash icon to remove them.
- Repeat this process for all browsers on your Mac.
Step 3: Clear Browser History and Cache
Search marquis may have altered your browser’s settings, so it’s important to clear your browsing history and cache to remove any unwanted changes. Here’s how to do it:
- Open your browser and go to the “Preferences” or “Settings” menu.
- Select the “Privacy” or “History” tab.
- Click on “Clear History” or “Clear Browsing Data”.
- Make sure to select all options and choose “All Time” as the time range.
- Click on “Clear” to confirm.
Step 4: Reset Your Browser
If the above steps don’t work, you may need to reset your browser to its default settings. This will remove any unwanted changes made by search marquis. Here’s how to do it:
- Open your browser and go to the “Preferences” or “Settings” menu.
- Select the “Advanced” or “Advanced Settings” tab.
- Scroll down and click on “Reset” or “Restore Settings to their Original Defaults”.
- Confirm the reset and restart your browser.
Step 5: Scan Your Mac for Malware
To ensure that search marquis is completely removed from your Mac, it’s important to run a malware scan. There are many reputable anti-malware programs available for Mac, such as Malwarebytes and Avast. These programs will scan your computer for any malicious files and remove them.
How to Prevent Search Marquis from Coming Back
Now that you’ve removed search marquis from your Mac, it’s important to take steps to prevent it from coming back. Here are some tips to keep your Mac safe from browser hijackers:
Be Cautious of Software Downloads
Search marquis often infects Macs through software bundles or fake updates. To avoid this, be cautious when downloading software from the internet. Stick to reputable sources and always read the terms and conditions before installing anything.
Keep Your Software Up to Date
Software updates often include security patches that can protect your Mac from malware. Make sure to regularly check for updates and install them as soon as they become available.
Use an Ad Blocker
Ad blockers can prevent unwanted pop-ups and ads from appearing on your browser. This can help protect you from malicious links and prevent browser hijackers like search marquis from infecting your Mac.
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A VPN can encrypt your internet connection and protect your personal information from being tracked by hackers. This can help prevent browser hijackers from collecting sensitive information from your Mac.
Conclusion
Removing search marquis from your Mac may seem like a daunting task, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily get rid of this pesky malware. Remember to always be cautious when downloading software and keep your Mac up to date to prevent future infections. By taking these precautions, you can keep your Mac safe and secure.
