Safari randomly opens new windows

Safari keeps opening new browser windows on its own at random times (not startup) when I'm using the computer. It doesn't matter what I'm doing - there doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to it. For example, I could be playing WoW and get lag spikes that have nothing to do with the server or my ISP. If I close WoW or window it to check what is going on with my desktop, I find several blank Safari windows open (I've found up to 8 of them at a time!). It doesn't matter if I'm using the internet or not, it does it anyway. I've gotten 3 of them just during typing up this question!
I've had this problem since I got my MacBook Pro (it was originally a display model from Fry's) a few years ago. However, when I was running 10.6, I was unable to uninstall Safari and just use Firefox instead. I just upgraded to 10.8 and it won't let me uninstall it - says Mountain Lion NEEDS it.
I've done everything I can think of - it's not my default browser; it's not listed as a startup item; I've run MacScan; cleared all history and cookies. Anyone have any suggestions?

Please read this whole message before doing anything.
This procedure is a diagnostic test. It’s unlikely to solve your problem. Don’t be disappointed when you find that nothing has changed after you complete it.
The purpose of the test is to determine whether the problem is caused by third-party software that loads automatically at startup or login.
Disconnect all wired peripherals except those needed for the test, and remove all aftermarket expansion cards. Boot in safe mode* and log in to the account with the problem. The instructions provided by Apple are as follows:
Shut down your computer, wait 30 seconds, and then hold down the shift key while pressing the power button.
When you see the gray Apple logo, release the shift key.
If you are prompted to log in, type your password, and then hold down the shift key again as you click Log in.
*Note: If FileVault is enabled under OS X 10.7 or later, or if a firmware password is set, or if the boot volume is a software RAID, you can’t boot in safe mode. Safe mode is much slower to boot and run than normal, and some things won’t work at all, including wireless networking on certain Macs. The next normal boot may also be somewhat slow.
The login screen appears even if you usually log in automatically. You must know your login password in order to log in. If you’ve forgotten the password, you will need to reset it before you begin. Leave the machine running overnight in safe mode. Don't launch any applications. Same problem? After testing, reboot as usual (i.e., not in safe mode) and verify that you still have the problem. Post the results of the test.

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Thanks Baltwo,
I will try it, but I don't want new pages in tabs either. I simply don't want the link to open in a new page or tab unless I ask for one. My initial trial has google links opening in new tabs. Why can't I just go down the paths on the same page like the old days? Especially after I find what I want, I will go somewhere else.
With your recommendation, I think that instead of pages open, I will have an abundance of tabs?
Guess I am getting inflexible in my old age. If this is the only option, it is an "improvement" that I don't like yet.
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That's why www. works.

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You may have installed the "VSearch" trojan. Remove it as follows.
Malware is always changing to get around the defenses against it. These instructions are valid as of now, as far as I know. They won't necessarily be valid in the future. Anyone finding this comment a few days or more after it was posted should look for more recent discussions or start a new one.
Back up all data before proceeding.
Step 1
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/Library/LaunchDaemons/com.vsearch.daemon.plist
/Library/LaunchDaemons/com.vsearch.helper.plist
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/Library/Application Support/VSearch
/System/Library/Frameworks/VSearch.framework
~/Library/Internet Plug-Ins/ConduitNPAPIPlugin.plugin
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Carolyn
Message was edited by: Carolyn Samit

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== This happened ==
Every time Firefox opened
== Randomly

Click the orange Firefox button, and click "Options". This will bring up a new window with a "Tabs" tab at the top. Click that. There will be several checked boxes, including one called "Open new windows in a new tab instead" up at the top of the list. Uncheck that box and you should be good to go.
ETA: This should also work if you click "Tools" and "Options" within your version.

Safari randomly opens new windows

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