Removal instructions for OuterSource adware and the adverts it displays
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is OuterSource?
OuterSource is a rogue app that we discovered while investigating new submissions to the VirusTotal website. Our analysis of this application revealed that it is advertising-supported software (adware). OuterSource is part of the AdLoad malware family.
OuterSource adware overview
Adware is designed to display advertisements on visited websites and/or different interfaces. These ads primarily endorse online scams, untrustworthy/harmful software, and even malware. Once clicked on, some of these adverts can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
It is noteworthy that while genuine content may be encountered via these advertisements – it is unlikely to be promoted by its actual developers. It is most probable that this promotion is undertaken by scammers who abuse the products' affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software might not deliver intrusive advert campaigns if certain conditions are unsuitable, such as an incompatible browser/system or user geolocation, not visiting specific sites, etc. However, even if OuterSource does not display advertisements – its presence on a system remains a threat.
AdLoad applications commonly have browser-hijacking functionalities, although we did not observe these abilities while testing OuterSource.
This rogue app likely collects sensitive user information. Adware typically targets the following data: visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, Internet cookies, log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. This vulnerable information can then be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
In summary, advertising-supported software like OuterSource may cause system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by OuterSource |
| 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 investigated countless adware-type applications; FlightRemote, UrbanUnited, and SystemSmarter are merely a couple of our latest finds. This software usually appears legitimate and offers various useful functionalities.
However, the promised functions tend to be fake and serve the purpose of bait to trick users into downloading/installing the software. It must be stressed that even if an application or a browser extension operates as indicated by its promotional material – that is not a guarantee of either legitimacy or safety.
How did OuterSource install on my computer?
Adware is proliferated using the bunding technique – packing regular program installers with unwanted/malicious additions.
The risk of unintentionally permitting bundled content to infiltrate the system is increased by downloading from untrustworthy sources (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and by rushing through installation processes (e.g., using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Additionally, adware can have "official" download webpages, and it is promoted on scam sites. Most users enter such pages via redirects caused by websites that employ rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Advertising-supported software is also spread by intrusive adverts. When clicked on, some of these advertisements can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent.
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is essential to always research software before downloading or purchasing it. Furthermore, all downloads must be performed from official and verified channels. When installing, we advise reading terms, exploring available options, using the "Custom/Advance" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, tools, etc.
We also advise being careful while browsing since fake and malicious online content usually appears legitimate and innocuous. For example, while intrusive advertisements may look ordinary and harmless – they redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, adult dating, pornography, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with ads 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 OuterSource, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once OuterSource adware's installation is over:
OuterSource 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 OuterSource?
- STEP 1. Remove OuterSource related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove OuterSource ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove OuterSource adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove OuterSource ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove OuterSource adware using Combo Cleaner:
OuterSource adware removal:
Remove OuterSource-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 decrease browsing quality and system performance. It displays advertisements that endorse content capable of causing serious problems (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). This software is also considered to be a threat to user privacy – since it usually has data-tracking functionalities.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It operates by displaying ads on visited webpages and/or other interfaces. Additionally, this software may be capable of force-opening webpages and collecting private data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers profit predominantly via affiliate programs by promoting various websites, applications, browser extensions, products, services, and so forth.
Will Combo Cleaner remove OuterSource adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan systems and eliminate detected adware-type apps. It must be mentioned that manual removal (unaided by security programs) might not be a perfect solution. Since even after the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – various components (files) can remain hidden within the system. The remnants may continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate adware thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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