How to eliminate ExpressionCargo adware from the operating system
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What is ExpressionCargo?
While inspecting new submissions to VirusTotal, we found the ExpressionCargo rogue application. Our analysis revealed that this app operates as advertising-supported software (adware) and belongs to the AdLoad malware family.
ExpressionCargo adware overview
Adware is designed to display advertisements (e.g., pop-ups, banners, coupons, etc.) on visited websites and/or different interfaces. These ads promote various scams, unreliable/harmful software, and even malware. Some intrusive advertisements can execute scripts to make stealthy downloads/installations upon being clicked.
Note that any legitimate products encountered through these ads are unlikely to be promoted by their actual developers. Instead, this endorsement is undertaken by scammers abusing the products' affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
It is noteworthy that advertising-supported software may require certain conditions (e.g., compatible browser/system, visits to specific sites, etc.) to run intrusive advert campaigns. However, regardless of whether ExpressionCargo (or other adware) displays ads or not - its presence on a system endangers device/user safety.
Furthermore, ExpressionCargo might have browser hijacker functionalities, as they are common for AdLoad adware - although we did not observe any during our analysis.
What is more, ExpressionCargo does have data tracking abilities. It can obtain browsing-related information, personally identifiable details, log-in credentials, credit card numbers, etc. The collected data can then shared with and/or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).
In summary, the presence of advertising-supported software like ExpressionCargo on devices - can lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by ExpressionCargo |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:Adload-AG [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Adware.MAC.Generic.26778), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.G), 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
We have analyzed countless adware samples; DockModule, AdvanceServices, and CompellingEntry are merely a couple of our latest finds. This software rarely appears suspicious; it tends to look legitimate and useful. However, adware seldom works as advertised, and in most cases - the promised features are utterly nonfunctional.
How did ExpressionCargo install on my computer?
Adware is proliferated bundled with (packed alongside) ordinary programs. Downloads from dubious channels (e.g., unofficial and freeware sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushed installations (e.g., used "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.) increase the risk of allowing bundled content into the system.
Intrusive advertisements are used to spread advertising-supported software as well. Once clicked on, some of these ads can execute scripts to make downloads/installations without user consent. Fake Adobe Flash Player updaters/installers are also used in distribution.
Additionally, adware is promoted via dubious download webpages and scam sites. Users typically enter these pages through redirects caused by mistyped URLs, websites using rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
We highly recommend researching software and downloading only from official and verified channels. Furthermore, installation processes must be approached with care, e.g., by reading terms, exploring possible options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting-out of all supplements.
Another recommendation is to exercise caution when browsing - since fraudulent and malicious content usually appears legitimate. For example, intrusive adverts look innocuous yet redirect to unreliable/questionable websites (e.g., adult-dating, pornography, gambling, etc.).
If you encounter advertisements and/or redirects of this kind, check the system and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with ExpressionCargo, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once ExpressionCargo adware's installation is over:
ExpressionCargo adware's installation folder:
ExpressionCargo adware installed onto a Safari browser:
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 ExpressionCargo?
- STEP 1. Remove ExpressionCargo related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove ExpressionCargo ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove ExpressionCargo adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove ExpressionCargo ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove ExpressionCargo adware using Combo Cleaner:
ExpressionCargo adware removal:
Remove ExpressionCargo-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. It is also considered to be a privacy threat, as this software typically has data tracking functionalities. Adware-delivered advertisements endorse deceptive/malicious content that can cause serious issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.).
What does adware do?
Adware operates by displaying advertisements on visited websites and/or other interfaces. Additionally, it may be capable of force-opening sites and gathering private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers profit primarily by promoting various sites, software, products, services, and similar via affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove ExpressionCargo adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate detected adware-type apps. Note that manual removal (unaided by security programs) might be ineffective. In some instances, despite the adware itself having been (manually) removed - various remnants (files) stay hidden in the system. Furthermore, such leftovers can continue running and causing issues. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate adware thoroughly.
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