How to remove the NativeSeason adware-type application from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What kind of application is NativeSeason?
Our researchers found the NativeSeason app during a routine inspection of new file submissions to VirusTotal. This application operates as advertising-supported software (adware). NativeSeason is also part of the AdLoad malware family.
NativeSeason adware overview
Adware is designed to generate revenue for its developers by feeding users with unwanted/deceptive ads. This third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, overlays, surveys, banners, etc.) is displayed on visited websites and/or other interfaces.
Specific conditions may be necessary for advertising-supported software to deliver intrusive advert campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system, visits to particular sites, etc.). However, regardless of whether NativeSeason displays advertisements – its presence on a system remains a threat.
Adware-delivered adverts primarily promote online scams, unreliable/harmful software, and potential malware. Some of these ads can even execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations upon being clicked.
Note that any genuine products/services encountered via these advertisements are most likely endorsed by scammers who abuse their affiliate programs in order to acquire illegitimate commissions.
While AdLoad applications often have browser-hijacking qualities, we did not observe these traits while testing NativeSeason.
This adware-type app likely has data-tracking functionalities, as they are standard for software within this classification. Targeted information may include: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. The gathered data can then be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
In summary, the presence of advertising-supported software like NativeSeason on devices may result in system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.
| Name | Ads by NativeSeason |
| 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
ClearIndexer, LoginPrinterLocator, and BrowseFrequency are just a couple examples of adware we have analyzed recently.
Advertising-supported software typically appears ordinary/harmless and offers various useful features. However, these functionalities seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all. Keep in mind that functional features do not definitely prove software's legitimacy or safety.
How did NativeSeason install on my computer?
The bundling marketing tactic – packing regular program installation setups with unwanted/malicious supplements – is used to proliferate adware.
Download from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and rushed installation processes (e.g., ignored terms, used "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.) – increase the risk of allowing bundled content into the device.
Additionally, advertising-supported software can have "official" download webpages, and it is promoted on scam sites. These pages are mainly accessed via redirects generated by websites that utilize rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Intrusive advertisements spread this software as well. Some of these ads can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform downloads/installations without user permission.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly advise researching software and downloading only from official/verified sources. We recommend treating installation processes with care, e.g., by reading terms, inspecting possible options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all additional apps, extensions, features, etc.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant while browsing since fraudulent and dangerous online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, despite their often innocuous appearance – intrusive adverts redirect to unreliable and questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, adult dating, pornography, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such ads/redirects, check the system and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with NativeSeason, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once NativeSeason adware's installation is over:
NativeSeason 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 NativeSeason?
- STEP 1. Remove NativeSeason related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove NativeSeason ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove NativeSeason adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove NativeSeason ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove NativeSeason adware using Combo Cleaner:
NativeSeason adware removal:
Remove NativeSeason-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 displays advertisements that promote deceptive/harmful content capable of causing serious issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). It can also diminish the browsing experience and system performance. Furthermore, adware usually has data-tracking abilities – hence, it is considered to be a threat to user privacy.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It operates by enabling the placement of ads on various interfaces. Additionally, some types can force-open sites and collect private data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Most of the profit comes from affiliate programs. Adware developers may earn commissions from ad clicks, website visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove NativeSeason adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your system and eliminate all the adware-type apps installed. It must be mentioned that manual removal (unaided by security software) might not be a perfect solution. Since various remnants (files) can stay hidden within the system even after the adware has been manually removed. What is more, the remaining components might continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, advertising-supported software must be eliminated thoroughly.
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