safari default search

 1. Check for adware.

     Run the latest release of Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware/adware, if installed on your Mac.

     For instructions:  Install Malwarebytes for Mac          Uninstall Malwarebytes for Mac

     Click the “Scan Now” button. Once done, quit Malwarebytes for Mac.

     Restart the computer and relaunch Safari holding the shift key down.

     Remove unknown profiles (1), unknown login items(@) unknown extensions(3), reset search engine (4)

     and reset Homepage (5 & 6)  listed under Additional steps.

2. Additional steps to take, if necessary.

  1. Remove unknown profiles.

      System Preferences > Profiles

      Open System Preferences, click the “Profiles” icon ( a checkmark on a gear) .

      When Profiles pane opens, select the unknown profile and click the minus button at the bottom.

  2. Remove unknown Login item.

       System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login items

       Authenticate and unlock the lock.

       Highlight the unknown login item and click the “-“ button at the bottom left to remove it.   

  3. Remove unknown extensions:  Safari > Preferences > Extensions

      https://support.apple.com/guide/safari/use-safari-extensions-sfri32508/mac

  4. Reset search engine:    https://support.apple.com/guide/safari/customize-your-search-ibrwe75c2a3c/mac

      Change Home Page

  5. Reset  Homepage.   https://support.apple.com/guide/safari/set-your-homepage-ibrw1020/mac

  Section: If Safari's home page is stuck

   6. Ref: https://forums.malwarebytes.com/topic/236261-how-to-remove-weknow-malware-and-others/

    7. Shutdown the computer from  menu. Start your Mac using the Power button.