Why does Google redirect to Bing, and how to stop it

You’ve opened Google, typed something into the search bar, and suddenly, you’re staring at Bing results instead.

In most cases, this happens because your browser or device has been hijacked by malicious software, a rogue extension, or altered settings that force every search through Bing. 

The good news? You can fix it — and stop those unwanted redirects for good. 
Let’s see how.

Why does Google keep redirecting you to Bing?

If your browser isn’t behaving as it should, it’s important to identify the cause and fix it before it leads to bigger security or privacy issues.

Here are the possible reasons why this happened.

Accidentally changed search engine settings

Sometimes redirects occur due to a harmless misconfiguration. For instance, during software installations or browser updates, setup wizards may quietly switch your default search engine to Bing. 

This can also happen if you’ve synced Chrome settings from another device where Bing was set as the default.

Suspicious or unwanted extensions

In many cases, it means a malicious program has taken control of your searches without permission. This often happens through Chrome extensions that modify your search behavior to earn ad revenue or collect data.

Even tools that look harmless — like PDF converters, coupon finders, or weather widgets — can inject their own search engine and reroute you to Bing without asking.

Browser hijacker or malware infection

If Google Chrome keeps redirecting you to Bing even after restoring Chrome’s settings, it’s a strong sign that your browser has been infected with unwanted software or hijacked.  

This type of malware installs itself silently (often bundled with other apps or downloads) and forces all search queries through Bing or another engine to generate fake traffic and ads.

What is the Bing redirect virus?

The so-called Bing redirect virus isn’t an official virus from Microsoft Edge or Bing — it’s a browser hijacker, a type of unwanted software that secretly changes your browser’s settings. 

Its main goal isn’t to help you search the web — it’s to make money by redirecting your traffic, showing ads, or tracking your data.

Here’s how it works:

1. It changes your browser settings: it alters your default search engine, homepage, or new tab page so that every search you make goes through Bing (or another site chosen by the attacker, like Yahoo).
2. It redirects your traffic: instead of showing Google results, it secretly reroutes your searches to generate fake clicks and ad revenue for the hijacker.
3. It tracks your data: it may collect browsing history, search terms, or even personal information to build user profiles for targeted ads — all without your consent.

These infections often sneak in through bundled software (like free apps, media players, or file converters) or suspicious links that trick you into downloading something “helpful.” 

Sometimes, users don’t even notice the installation because it’s hidden in an “express” setup option.

All said, it’s not just a minor annoyance. The Bing redirect virus can expose you to privacy risks, intrusive ads, and further malware downloads.

How can you fix Google redirects to Bing?

The good news: yes, you can stop Bing redirects by cleaning up your browser and removing any software that’s hijacking it. 

Follow these steps to restore normal search behavior.

1. Uninstall suspicious programs

Open your system’s app list and look for unfamiliar software — especially anything installed around the time the redirects began. Remove anything you don’t recognize or no longer use.

• On Windows: open Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program, sort by installation date, and remove anything unfamiliar or that you didn’t intentionally install.
• On macOS: open Finder > Applications, drag suspicious apps to the Trash, and empty it.

2. Check and clean your browser extensions

Unwanted or malicious extensions often cause redirects. Go through your installed add-ons and remove any that are suspicious or unnecessary.

• In Chrome:
  Go to your Chrome extensions page (Open Google Chrome and type chrome://extensions/ in the address bar).
• In Safari:
  Go to Safari > Settings (or Preferences) > Extensions.
• In Firefox:
  Click the menu (☰) in the top-right corner > Add-ons and themes > Extensions.

3. Reset browser settings to default

If the issue persists, resetting your browser to its original settings can help remove hidden changes made by extensions or malware. This will restore default settings without deleting bookmarks or saved passwords.

• In Chrome:
  Go to Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults, then confirm. Afterward, open a new tab and make sure Google is set as your default search engine.
• In Safari:
  Safari doesn’t have a single “reset” button, but you can manually clear data.
  Go to Safari > Settings (or Preferences) > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Remove All.
  Then, under Extensions, remove any you don’t trust and restart Safari.
• In Firefox:
  Click the menu (☰) > Help > More troubleshooting information > Refresh Firefox. This restores default settings and removes problematic add-ons while saving your bookmarks and passwords.

4. Run a full antivirus or anti-malware scan

Use a trusted antivirus program, such as Surfshark Antivirus, to run a full system scan (not just a quick scan). 

This helps find hidden browser redirect viruses or other malicious files that may be forcing redirects.

5. Switch to a private search engine

Once your browser is clean, you can try a private search engine to browse with less tracking and more peace of mind.

Surfshark Search is one example — it provides ad-free, private search results without profiling or storing your queries. While it doesn’t fix existing redirects, it helps you browse without being tracked afterward.

How to protect your device from browser hijackers

Once you’ve fixed the Bing redirect, it’s smart to take a few steps to make sure it doesn’t happen again. 

Such hijackers usually sneak in through unsafe downloads, fake updates, or unverified browser add-ons — but a few habits can keep your system secure.

Download software only from official sources

Avoid free download sites or third-party installers that bundle unwanted programs. Always get apps directly from the developer’s website or official stores (Google Play, App Store, Microsoft Store).

Be cautious with browser extensions

Before adding an extension, check its reviews, permissions, and developer. Remove anything you don’t use regularly or that asks for excessive access.

Keep your browser and system updated

Updates patch security vulnerabilities that hijackers often exploit. Enable automatic updates for both your browser and operating system.

Use reliable security software

Run regular scans with a trusted antivirus to detect and remove threats before they can alter your browser settings.

Surfshark Antivirus, included in the Surfshark One suite, helps block and remove malware that can hijack browsers or redirect your searches.

Practice safe browsing habits

Avoid clicking suspicious pop-ups or “your system is infected” messages. Don’t install unknown plug-ins or open email attachments from strangers.

Stay in control of your browser

If your browser suddenly decides to use Bing instead of Google, that’s your cue to act. It’s a clear sign something’s tampered with your setup — but you can take it back with a quick cleanup and a few smart security habits.

By removing suspicious software, resetting your browser, and scanning for threats, you can take back control of your browsing experience.

For ongoing protection, use a trusted cybersecurity suite like Surfshark One to block malware and stop hijackers early, helping to keep your searches private and your browser secure.

Stay safe and private online with Surfshark One

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