How to Stop Chrome Browser Opening New Tabs Automatically

Google Chrome is the most popular web browser, but many users face issues with it automatically opening new tabs. This can be frustrating as it slows down your browsing, redirects you to unwanted sites, and is often a sign of malware.

Fortunately, there are several ways to stop Chrome from opening tabs without your permission. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the main causes of this issue and provide actionable solutions.

Why Does Chrome Open Tabs Automatically?

There are a few potential reasons why Chrome starts opening tabs on its own:

1. Malware or Virus Infection

Malicious software often forces Chrome to open unwanted tabs to expose you to phishing sites or advertising. Run a full system scan with antivirus software to remove any malware.

2. Extensions Causing Conflicts

Some Chrome extensions can override settings and cause new tabs to open automatically. Check your installed extensions and remove any suspicious ones.

3. Intrusive Website Cookies

Stored cookies from certain sites may trigger automatic tab opening. Clearing cookies and cache often resolves this.

4. Chrome Needs Reinstalling

If Chrome itself has become corrupted, a fresh install can overwrite any faulty files causing tabs to open.

How to Stop Automatic Tab Opening

With the potential causes in mind, here are the top solutions to stop unwanted tab opening:

1. Reset Chrome to Default Settings

Resetting removes extensions, stored cookies, history and temporary files. Often this clears any settings causing automatic tabs:

  1. Click the 3-dot menu > Settings
  2. Click “Reset settings” under Advanced

2. Disable Background Apps

Stop extensions running in the background:

  1. Click the 3-dot menu > More Tools > Extensions
  2. Toggle “Allow in Incognito” off for all extensions

3. Check Task Manager Processes

Look for any unknown or suspicious processes that could be malware triggering the tabs:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
  2. Review the Processes tab for anything suspicious

4. Scan for Malware

Run a full antivirus scan to check for and remove any lurking malware or viruses:

  1. Download and install a recommended antivirus program
  2. Run a full system scan
  3. Quarantine or remove any threats found

5. Reinstall Chrome

If all else fails, completely uninstall then reinstall Chrome cleanly using the latest installer from google.com.

Alternative Browsers

If problems persist even after trying these fixes, switching from Chrome to an alternative browser is worth considering. Top options include:

  • Mozilla Firefox – Open source browser with strong customization and privacy features
  • Microsoft Edge – Built on same tech as Chrome with seamless Windows integration
  • Brave – Focused on speed, security and blocking intrusive advertising
  • Vivaldi – Feature-packed for power users while remaining highly customizable

Test different browsers to find one that best meets your browsing needs. With the right software and settings, you can stop Chrome opening tabs automatically.

Conclusion

Unexpected tab opening can quickly become both a nuisance and a security risk. By understanding what’s causing the behavior and methodically implementing fixes, you can prevent Chrome tabs opening without permission.

Pay special attention to malware scans, background apps settings and resetting Chrome to defaults when troubleshooting. Alternatively, browsers like Firefox or Edge provide a fresh start if Chrome itself is the issue.

Carefully going through the solutions in this guide will help you pinpoint and resolve the cause – letting you browse freely without annoying automatic tab interference.