How to eliminate the PlatformSample adware from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is PlatformSample?
PlatformSample is an adware-type application that belongs to the AdLoad malware family. Our research team discovered this app during a routine inspection of new submissions to VirusTotal. PlatformSample is designed to generate revenue for its developers through advertising.
PlatformSample adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. In most cases, adware operates by displaying third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, coupons, surveys, overlays, banners, etc.) on visited websites and/or other interfaces.
Note that certain conditions may be necessary for this software to work as intended (e.g., compatible browser/system, visits to specific sites, etc.). However, even if PlatformSample does not deliver advertisements – it endangers system safety and user privacy.
Adware-displayed ads commonly endorse various scams, unreliable/hazardous software, and even malware. Once clicked on, some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform sneaky downloads/installations. It is pertinent to mention that any genuine content encountered via these advertisements is most likely promoted by scammers seeking to obtain illegitimate commissions by abusing its affiliate programs.
We have discovered numerous AdLoad apps with browser-hijacking capabilities – however, PlatformSample did not exhibit these qualities during our analysis.
Advertising-supported software typically has data-tracking abilities, and this might be true of the PlatformSample app. Data of interest may include: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. This valuable information can be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
To summarize, the presence of software like PlatformSample on devices may result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by PlatformSample |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Adload.16), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.H), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.j), Full List (VirusTotal) |
| Additional Information | This application belongs to Adload malware family. |
| Symptoms | Your Mac becomes slower than normal, you see unwanted pop-up ads, you are redirected to dubious websites. |
| Distribution methods | Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), torrent file downloads. |
| Damage | Internet browser tracking (potential privacy issues), display of unwanted ads, redirects to dubious websites, loss of private information. |
| Malware Removal (Mac) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your Mac with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Adware examples
OriginalProcess, DominantSoftware, and ControlDivision are merely a couple examples of adware we have investigated. While this software usually appears legitimate and offers "handy" functions – it seldom operates as promised. However, even if an app or a browser extension works as advertised – that is not irrefutable proof of legitimacy or safety.
How did PlatformSample install on my computer?
Adware-endorsing websites can appear legitimate and offer it as helpful software or use scare tactics and other false claims. Most visitors enter these pages via redirects generated by sites using rogue advertising networks, intrusive adverts, mistyped URLs, spam browser notifications, and adware.
Additionally, advertising-supported software can be bundled with ordinary programs. The risk of unintentionally allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and by rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Intrusive advertisements spread adware as well. When clicked on, some of these ads can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is important to always research software prior to downloading or purchasing. We recommend downloading only from official and trustworthy channels. When installing, it is essential to read terms, study possible options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all supplements (e.g., apps, extensions, etc.).
We also advise vigilance when browsing since fake and malicious online content typically appears legitimate and harmless. For example, while intrusive adverts may look innocuous – they redirect users to unreliable and questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, pornography, gambling, adult dating, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such advertisements and/or redirects, check the device and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with PlatformSample, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once PlatformSample adware's installation is over:
PlatformSample adware's installation folder:
Instant automatic Mac malware removal:
Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of Mac malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner for Mac
By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited seven days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.
Quick menu:
- What is PlatformSample?
- STEP 1. Remove PlatformSample related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove PlatformSample ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove PlatformSample adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove PlatformSample ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove PlatformSample adware using Combo Cleaner:
PlatformSample adware removal:
Remove PlatformSample-related potentially unwanted applications from your "Applications" folder:
Click the Finder icon. In the Finder window, select "Applications". In the applications folder, look for "MPlayerX","NicePlayer", or other suspicious applications and drag them to the Trash.
After removing the potentially unwanted application(s) that cause online ads, scan your Mac for any remaining unwanted components.
Remove adware-related files and folders
Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...
Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents/
In the "LaunchAgents" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - "installmac.AppRemoval.plist", "myppes.download.plist", "mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist", "kuklorest.update.plist", etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the exact same string.
Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/Application Support/ folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/Application Support/
In the "Application Support" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, "MplayerX" or "NicePlayer", and move these folders to the Trash.
Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents/
In the "LaunchAgents" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - "installmac.AppRemoval.plist", "myppes.download.plist", "mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist", "kuklorest.update.plist", etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the exact same string.
Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons/ folder:
In the "Go to Folder..." bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons/
In the "LaunchDaemons" folder, look for recently-added suspicious files. For example "com.aoudad.net-preferences.plist", "com.myppes.net-preferences.plist", "com.kuklorest.net-preferences.plist", "com.avickUpd.plist", etc., and move them to the Trash.
Scan your Mac with Combo Cleaner:
If you have followed all the steps correctly, your Mac should be clean of infections. To ensure your system is not infected, run a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus. Download it HERE. After downloading the file, double click combocleaner.dmg installer. In the opened window, drag and drop the Combo Cleaner icon on top of the Applications icon. Now open your launchpad and click on the Combo Cleaner icon. Wait until Combo Cleaner updates its virus definition database and click the "Start Combo Scan" button.
Combo Cleaner will scan your Mac for malware infections. If the antivirus scan displays "no threats found" - this means that you can continue with the removal guide; otherwise, it's recommended to remove any found infections before continuing.
After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.
Remove malicious extensions from Internet browsers
Remove malicious Safari extensions:
Open the Safari browser, from the menu bar, select "Safari" and click "Preferences...".
In the preferences window, select "Extensions" and look for any recently-installed suspicious extensions. When located, click the "Uninstall" button next to it/them. Note that you can safely uninstall all extensions from your Safari browser - none are crucial for regular browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Safari.
Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
Click the Chrome menu icon 
(at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "More Tools" and click "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.
Remove malicious extensions from Mozilla Firefox:
Click the Firefox menu 
(at the top right corner of the main window) and select "Add-ons and themes". Click "Extensions", in the opened window locate all recently-installed suspicious extensions, click on the three dots and then click "Remove".
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Mozilla Firefox.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What harm can adware cause?
Adware displays adverts that promote content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Its presence on a system can diminish the browsing experience and system performance. Furthermore, adware is categorized as a privacy threat since it usually has data-tracking abilities.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It displays ads on various interfaces and may also force-open webpages or collect sensitive data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers generate revenue by endorsing various websites, applications, browser extensions, tools, products, services, and other content. Most of the profit comes from affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove PlatformSample adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate installed adware-type apps. Note that manual removal (unaided by security programs) might not be an ideal solution. In some instances, after the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – file leftovers stay hidden within the system. The remaining components may continue running and causing issues. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate adware and other undesirable software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
▼ Show Discussion