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How to remove AdvancedSprint adware from the operating system

Also Known As: Ads by AdvancedSprint
Type: Mac Virus
Damage level: Medium

What is AdvancedSprint?

AdvancedSprint is a piece of rogue software classified as adware. This application has browser hijacker qualities. Hence, it runs intrusive advertisement campaigns and promotes fake search engines by modifying browser settings.

Additionally, most adware-types and browser hijackers collect browsing-related information. Due to the dubious techniques used to distribute AdvancedSprint, it is categorized as a PUA (Potentially Unwanted Application). AdvancedSprint has been observed being spread via fake Adobe Flash Player updates.

It is worth mentioning that illegitimate software updaters/installers distribute not only PUAs but are also used to proliferate trojans, ransomware, and other malware.

Error message displayed when RecordMapper adware is installed

AdvancedSprint adware overview

Adware delivers banners, pop-ups, surveys, coupons, and other intrusive ads. They seriously diminish the browser quality by overlaying page content and slowing down the browsing speed.

Furthermore, when clicked on, intrusive adverts redirect to untrustworthy/malicious websites and some can execute scripts to stealthily download/install software (e.g., PUAs). Browser hijackers assign fake web search addresses as browsers' homepage, default search engine, and new tab/window URLs.

Therefore, with such of piece installed: every new browser tab/window opened and search query typed into the URL bar - redirect to the promoted address. Fake search engines are usually unable to provide search results.

They tend to redirect to (or cause redirection chains ending with) Google, Yahoo, Bing, and other legitimate ones. Browser hijackers can undo any changes users try to make to their browsers and/or restrict/deny access to the browser settings outright.

What is more, most PUAs (adware and browser hijackers included) have data tracking abilities. They monitor browsing activity (URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, etc.) and gather sensitive information extracted from it (IP addresses, geolocations, and even personally identifiable details).

The gathered data is then shared with and/or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals). In summary, unwanted software can cause system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and lead to identity theft. To protect device and user safety, all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins must be eliminated without delay.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by AdvancedSprint
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
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), fake Flash Player installers, 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.
▼ Download Combo Cleaner for Mac
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.

Adware examples

ValidMemory, WizardUpdate, RecordMapper, OperativeDock - are some examples of adware-type apps. They appear ordinary and offer "useful" features. However, the advertised functionalities are seldom operational.

In fact, this applies to practically all PUAs. The sole purpose of unwanted software is to generate revenue at user expense. Therefore, instead of delivering on any promises, PUAs can run intrusive advert campaigns, hijack browsers, cause redirects, and collect vulnerable information.

How did AdvancedSprint install on my computer?

PUAs are distributed through downloaders/installers of other software. This deceptive marketing method of packing regular products with unwanted or malicious additions - is named "bundling". Rushed downloads/installations (e.g., ignored terms, skipped steps, used pre-set options, etc.) increase the risk of unintentionally allowing bundled content into the system.

Intrusive advertisements also spread PUAs. Upon being clicked, the adverts can execute scripts designed to download/install these applications without user consent. Some PUAs have "official" promotional/download sites.

How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?

It is recommended to research products to verify their legitimacy before download/installation and/or purchase. Furthermore, only official and trustworthy download sources must be used. Dubious download channels (e.g., unofficial and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, and other third-party downloaders) commonly offer bundled content.

When downloading/installing, it is advised to read terms, study all possible options, use the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings and opt-out from supplementary apps, tools, functions, etc. It is just as important to exercise caution when browsing. Intrusive ads appear legitimate and harmless; however, they redirect to unreliable and questionable webpages (e.g., gambling, pornography, adult-dating, and many others).

In case of encounters with adverts and/or redirects of this kind, the system must be checked and all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins detected - immediately removed from it. If your computer is already infected with AdvancedSprint, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.

Text presented in the pop-up window displayed when AdvancedSprint adware is present:

"AdvancedSprintd" will damage your computer.

 

This file was downloaded on an unknown date.

Delusive installer (fake Flash Player updater) promoting AdvancedSprint adware;

First installation step:

Delusive installer used to promote AdvancedSprint adware (step 1)

Second installation step:

Delusive installer used to promote AdvancedSprint adware (step 2)

Files related to the AdvancedSprint adware that need to be removed:

  • ~/Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/Services/com.AdvancedSprint.service.app
  • ~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.AdvancedSprint.service.plist
  • /Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/System/com.AdvancedSprint.system
  • /Library/LaunchDaemons/com.AdvancedSprint.system.plist

IMPORTANT NOTE! In some cases malicious applications like AdvancedSprint alter system proxy settings, thereby causing unwanted redirects to a variety of questionable websites.

The redirects are likely to remain even after removing the application itself. Thus, you'll have to restore them manually.

Step 1: Click on the gear icon in the Dock to navigate to the system settings. If the icon is not present in the Dock, you can find it in the Launchpad.

Changing proxy settings - navigate to the system settings

Step 2: Navigate to the Network settings.

Changing proxy settings - navigate to the network settings

Step 3: Select the connected network and click "Advanced...".

Changing proxy settings - select the connected network and click Advanced...

Step 4: Click on the "Proxies" tab and untick all the protocols. You should also set the settings of each protocol to default - "*.local, 169.254/16".

Changing proxy settings - untick all the options and set their settings to default

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:

Video showing how to remove AdvancedSprint adware using Combo Cleaner

AdvancedSprint adware removal:

Remove AdvancedSprint-related potentially unwanted applications from your "Applications" folder:

mac browser hijacker removal from 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

Mac Go To Folder step

Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...

Mac removing related files and folders - step 1Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/LaunchAgents - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents/

Mac go to /Library/LaunchAgents - step 2

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.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 2Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/Application Support/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/Application Support - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/Application Support/

Mac go to /Library/Application Support - step 2

In the "Application Support" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, "MplayerX" or "NicePlayer", and move these folders to the Trash.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 3Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:

Mac go to ~/Library/LaunchAgents - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents/

Mac go to ~/Library/LaunchAgents - step 2

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.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 4Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/LaunchDaemons - step 1

In the "Go to Folder..." bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons/

Mac go to /Library/LaunchDaemons - step 2

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.

Mac removing malware related files and folders - step 5Scan 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.

Mac remove malware with Combo Cleaner - step 1

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.

Mac remove malware with Combo Cleaner - step 2

After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.

Remove malicious extensions from Internet browsers

Safari iconRemove malicious Safari extensions:

Removal of malicious extensions in Safari - step 1

Open the Safari browser, from the menu bar, select "Safari" and click "Preferences...".

Removal of malicious extensions in Safari - step 2

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.

Google Chrome logoRemove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Removal of malicious extensions in Google Chrome - step 1

Click the Chrome menu icon Google 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".

Removal of malicious extensions in Google Chrome - step 2

  • If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.

Mozilla Firefox logoRemove malicious extensions from Mozilla Firefox:

Removal of malicious extensions in Mozilla Firefox - step 1

Click the Firefox menu firefox menu icon (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".

Removal of malicious extensions in Mozilla Firefox - step 2

  • 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 can diminish the browsing experience and system performance. It displays ads that may promote content capable of causing system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, and other serious problems. Furthermore, advertising-supported software usually has data-tracking functionalities – therefore, it is considered to be a privacy threat.

What does adware do?

Adware is designed to run intrusive advertisement campaigns. It operates by enabling the placement of third-party graphical content (advertisements) on various interfaces. Additionally, some adware-types can also generate redirects and gather private information.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers generate revenue by endorsing various sites, programs, products, services, and other content. Most of the profit comes from affiliate programs.

Will Combo Cleaner remove AdvancedSprint adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan computers and eliminate detected adware-type apps. Note that manual removal (performed without security tools) might not be ideal. In some cases, after the software has been manually removed – various remnants (files) stay hidden within the system. These components might continue to run and cause issues. Hence, it is paramount to eliminate adware thoroughly.

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About the author:

Tomas Meskauskas

Tomas Meskauskas - expert security researcher, professional malware analyst.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of over 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an author and editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest online security threats. Contact Tomas Meskauskas.

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Removal Instructions in other languages
Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

QR Code
Ads by AdvancedSprint QR code
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