How to eliminate NetworkImagine adware from the operating system
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is NetworkImagine?
NetworkImagine is a rogue app that we discovered while investigating new submissions to VirusTotal. Our examination of this application revealed that it operates as adware and that it is part of the AdLoad malware family.
NetworkImagine adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It operates by delivering intrusive ad campaigns. The software displays adverts on visited websites and/or other interfaces.
These advertisements endorse online scams, unreliable/harmful software, and even malware. Once clicked on, some intrusive ads can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent.
Keep in mind that any legitimate products/services encountered via these advertisements are unlikely to be promoted by their developers or other official parties. It is most probable that this endorsement is undertaken by scammers who abuse the content's affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software might require specific conditions to run intrusive ad campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system, visits to particular websites, etc.). However, even if NetworkImagine does not display adverts – its presence on a system endangers device and user safety.
While AdLoad adware often has browser-hijacking traits, we did not observe any while inspecting the NetworkImagine app.
Furthermore, NetworkImagine has data-tracking functionalities. Information of interest includes: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials (i.e., usernames/passwords), personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so forth. The collected data can then be shared with and/or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).
To summarize, the presence of software like NetworkImagine on devices can result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.
| Name | Ads by NetworkImagine |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-DH [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Adload.23), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.H), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Search), 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 analyzed thousands of adware-type applications; ChannelLegion, LibraryBlog, DigitalCommand, OperationTool, and OriginalConnection are merely some examples.
Advertising-supported software usually appears ordinary and harmless. Users are enticed into downloading/installing this software by a broad range of handy functionalities, which are rarely operational. It must be stressed that even if an app works as promoted – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did NetworkImagine install on my computer?
Adware can have "official" download pages, and it is pushed through scam sites. Most users access these webpages via redirects caused by websites using rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
"Bundling" – packing regular program installers with unwanted/malicious additions – is also used to distribute advertising-supported software. The risk of inadvertently permitting bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Intrusive adverts proliferate adware as well. When clicked on, some of the advertisements can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We highly recommend researching software and downloading only from official/trustworthy sources. When installing, it is crucial to read terms, study possible options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all additional apps, extensions, features, etc.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant when browsing since fraudulent and malicious online content usually appears legitimate. For example, intrusive ads may look innocuous yet redirect to unreliable/questionable websites (e.g., gambling, pornography, adult dating, scam-promoting, etc.).
Should you keep experiencing such adverts/redirects, check the device and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with NetworkImagine, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once NetworkImagine adware's installation is over:
NetworkImagine adware's installation folder:
NetworkImagine 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 NetworkImagine?
- STEP 1. Remove NetworkImagine related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove NetworkImagine ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove NetworkImagine adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove NetworkImagine ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove NetworkImagine adware using Combo Cleaner:
NetworkImagine adware removal:
Remove NetworkImagine-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 ads that promote content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Additionally, this software tends to have data-tracking abilities – hence, it is classified as a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It enables the placement of various adverts on visited websites and/or other interfaces. Furthermore, some types can force-open webpages and gather private data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue primarily through affiliate programs by promoting various sites, applications, browser extensions, products, services, and so forth. The developers may earn commission from ad clicks, website visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove NetworkImagine adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your system and eliminate detected adware-type applications. It must be mentioned that manual removal (unaided by security programs) might not be ideal. In some cases, even after the adware has been manually removed – various remnants (files) can stay hidden within the system. Furthermore, the remaining components can continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is crucial to eliminate advertising-supported software thoroughly.
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