How to remove MachineDesktop adware-type application
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What kind of application is MachineDesktop?
MachineDesktop is a rogue app that we discovered while investigating new submissions to the VirusTotal site. After inspecting this application, we determined that it is advertising-supported software (adware). Additionally, we learned that MachineDesktop belongs to the AdLoad malware family.
MachineDesktop adware overview
Adware is designed to run intrusive advertisement campaigns. This software enables the placement of adverts (e.g., pop-ups, banners, overlays, coupons, etc.) on various interfaces.
The advertisements endorse online scams, untrustworthy/harmful software, and even malware. Some intrusive ads can be triggered (by being clicked) to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
It is pertinent to mention that while legitimate products/services may be encountered through these adverts – they are unlikely to be promoted by their developers or other official parties. It is most probable that this promotion is performed by scammers who abuse the content's affiliate programs in order to acquire illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software might not deliver intrusive ad campaigns if the browser/system is incompatible, specific websites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. Regardless of whether MachineDesktop displays advertisements – its presence on a system endangers device and user safety.
Some of the adware belonging to the AdLoad family has browser-hijacking abilities; however, this rogue application did not exhibit any such qualities during testing.
MachineDesktop likely collects sensitive information. Targeted data may include: URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. The gathered information can be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
In summary, advertising-supported software like MachineDesktop can cause system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even lead to identity theft.
| Name | Ads by MachineDesktop |
| 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
We have examined thousands of adware-type apps; PrimaryRemote, PrimaryBuffer, DefaultWindow, LauncherIndex – are merely a few examples of our latest finds.
Advertising-supported software usually appears ordinary and innocuous. Users are lured into downloading/installing this software with promises of various handy functionalities. However, the features seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they are utterly nonoperational.
It must be stressed that even if a piece of software works as indicated by its promotional material – that is not a guarantee of either legitimacy or safety.
How did MachineDesktop install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled with (packed into the installers of) ordinary programs. The risk of unintentionally permitting bundled content access into the system is increased by downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and by treating installation processes with negligence (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Intrusive advertisements can also infiltrate adware into systems. Once clicked on, some of these ads can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.
Advertising-supported software commonly has "official" promotional pages, and it is endorsed on scam websites. Most visitors access these webpages via redirects caused by misspelled URLs, sites that use rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly advise researching software and downloading it only from official/verified sources. When installing, it is crucial to read terms, explore possible options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all additions (e.g., applications, extensions, features, tools, etc.).
Another recommendation is to be careful while browsing since fraudulent and malicious online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, while intrusive ads may look innocuous – they redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, adult dating, pornography, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with advertisements/redirects of this kind, check the device and immediately remove all suspect apps and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with MachineDesktop, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once MachineDesktop adware's installation is over:
MachineDesktop 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 MachineDesktop?
- STEP 1. Remove MachineDesktop related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove MachineDesktop ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove MachineDesktop adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove MachineDesktop ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove MachineDesktop adware using Combo Cleaner:
MachineDesktop adware removal:
Remove MachineDesktop-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 can diminish the browsing experience and system performance. It displays adverts that endorse content capable of causing serious problems (e.g., system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, etc.). Additionally, advertising-supported software typically has data-tracking functionalities – hence, it is considered to be a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It operates by enabling the placement of ads on various interfaces (e.g., visited sites, desktops, etc.). Some adware-types can also force-open websites and collect private data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Most of the profit is made through affiliate programs by promoting a variety of content. Adware developers may earn commission from ad clicks, website visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, and similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove MachineDesktop adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your computer and eliminate detected adware-type applications. Keep in mind that manual removal (performed without the aid of security tools) might be ineffective. Since even after the adware has been manually removed – various components (files) may remain hidden within the system. Furthermore, these leftovers might continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is paramount to remove advertising-supported software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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