How to remove the SystemWalk adware from your operating system
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What is SystemWalk?
While inspecting new submissions on VirusTotal, our research team discovered SystemWalk. We installed this application onto our test system and determined that it operates as advertising-supported software (adware). We also learned that SystemWalk is part of the AdLoad malware family.
SystemWalk adware overview
Certain specifications (e.g., compatible browser/system or user geolocation, visits to particular websites, etc.) might need to be met for advertising-supported software to deliver advertisements. However, even if SystemWalk (or other adware) does not display ads - that does not mean that its presence on a system is harmless.
Adware-delivered adverts promote unreliable/harmful websites and software, online scams, and even malware. Furthermore, some intrusive advertisements can download/install software stealthily - once clicked on.
Note that it is improbable for reputable developers to use adware to endorse their products, yet legitimate content can be encountered through these ads. This is primarily done by scammers who abuse the products' affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
What is more, SystemWalk may have other functionalities. AdLoad adware often has browser hijacker traits, although we did not observe SystemWalk exhibiting any.
Advertising-supported software usually has data tracking abilities, and this app may have them as well. Information of interest can include: browsing data (visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, etc.), personally identifiable details, usernames/passwords, credit card numbers, and so on. The collected information is monetized via sale to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).
In summary, the presence of software like SystemWalk on devices - can lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by SystemWalk |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Adware.MAC.Generic.26249), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.C), 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), 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. |
Adware examples
DataCharacter, DynamicInterface, and CommonOperation are merely a couple examples of the adware we have analyzed recently.
Advertising-supported software typically appears legitimate and offers "handy" features. However, these functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases - they do not work at all. Therefore, not only is adware useless, but it also endangers device and user safety.
How did SystemWalk install on my computer?
Adware is distributed using a wide variety of dubious and deceptive methods. This software can be bundled (packed together) with ordinary programs. Download from untrustworthy download channels (e.g., unofficial and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and rushed installations - increase the risk of allowing bundled content into the system.
Fake Adobe Flash Player updaters/installers are also used in distribution. Intrusive adverts are used to proliferate advertising-supported software as well. Once clicked on, some of these advertisements can execute scripts to make downloads/installations without user permission.
Adware may have "official" promotional sites, and it is also pushed via scam webpages. These websites are typically accessed via redirects caused by pages using rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, mistyped URLs, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly recommend researching software and downloading only from official and verified channels. Furthermore, installation processes must be approached with care. Hence, we advise reading terms, studying possible options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting-out of all additions.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant when browsing - since fake and malicious content tends to look harmless. For example, intrusive ads appear legitimate yet redirect to highly questionable sites (e.g., gambling, pornography, adult-dating, etc.).
In case of encounters with adverts and/or redirects of this kind, inspect your devices and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with SystemWalk, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once SystemWalk adware's installation is over:
SystemWalk 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 SystemWalk?
- STEP 1. Remove SystemWalk related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove SystemWalk ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove SystemWalk adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove SystemWalk ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove SystemWalk adware using Combo Cleaner:
SystemWalk adware removal:
Remove SystemWalk-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 may decrease browsing quality and system performance. This software usually has data tracking functionalities, which make it a threat to user privacy. What is more, adware-displayed adverts typically promote deceptive/malicious material that can cause severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.).
What does adware do?
Adware is designed to display advertisements on visited websites and/or other interfaces. Some types can also force-open sites and collect personal data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue mainly through affiliate programs by endorsing various websites, software, products, services, and so forth. The developers may earn commission from ad clicks, site visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove SystemWalk adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate installed adware-type apps. It has to be mentioned that manual removal (unaided by security software) might not be ideal. In some instances, even after the adware itself has been (manually) eliminated - file leftovers remain hidden in the system. Furthermore, such remnants might continue running and causing problems. Therefore, it is crucial to remove adware thoroughly.
Outstanding!
▼ Show Discussion