How to remove DeviceOptimizer adware-type app from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is DeviceOptimizer?
DeviceOptimizer is an adware-type app that our research team discovered during a routine inspection of new file submissions to the VirusTotal website. This application is a part of the AdLoad malware family. DeviceOptimizer generates revenue for its developers by feeding users with undesirable and potentially malicious ads.
DeviceOptimizer adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It enables the placement of third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, coupons, surveys, overlays, etc.) on visited webpages and/or other interfaces.
It is pertinent to mention that this software might not deliver intrusive advert campaigns if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, specific websites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. However, even if DeviceOptimizer does not display advertisements – its presence on a system endangers device/user safety.
Adware-displayed ads predominantly promote online scams, unreliable/harmful software, and even malware. When clicked on, some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.
It is noteworthy that any genuine content encountered through these advertisements is most likely endorsed in this manner by scammers who abuse its affiliate programs to acquire illegitimate commissions.
AdLoad applications tend to have browser-hijacking traits – however, we did not observe these qualities while analyzing DeviceOptimizer.
Advertising-supported software usually has data-tracking functionalities, and this might apply to the DeviceOptimizer app. Targeted information can include: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so forth. The collected data can then be monetized through sale to third-parties.
To summarize, the presence of software like DeviceOptimizer on devices may lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by DeviceOptimizer |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:Adload-AG [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.AdLoad.13), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.G), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h), 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
ValueStandard, WillowAmaze, and MapperGrid are merely a few examples of adware we have analyzed recently. Advertising-supported software usually appears ordinary and harmless. It offers a wide variety of handy features. However, these functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all.
Keep in mind that even if a piece of software operates as indicated by its promotional material – that is not a guarantee of either legitimacy or safety.
How did DeviceOptimizer install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled with (packed alongside) regular programs. Downloading from untrustworthy sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, skipping steps, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.) – increase the risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system.
Advertising-supported software can also have "official" promotional webpages, and it is pushed through scam sites. Most visitors to these pages enter them via redirects generated by websites using rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, intrusive ads, spam browser notifications, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
Intrusive advertisements spread this software as well. Some of the adverts can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform stealthy downloads/installations.
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is crucial to research software before downloading or purchasing it. We recommend downloading only from official and verified channels. When installing, it is essential to read terms, inspect possible options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all additional apps, extensions, tools, etc.
We advise being vigilant while browsing since fraudulent and malicious online content usually appears genuine and harmless. For example, intrusive adverts may look innocuous – however, they redirect to unreliable and questionable websites (e.g., gambling, scam-promoting, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such ads/redirects, check the system and immediately remove all dubious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with DeviceOptimizer, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once DeviceOptimizer adware's installation is over:
DeviceOptimizer 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 DeviceOptimizer?
- STEP 1. Remove DeviceOptimizer related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove DeviceOptimizer ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove DeviceOptimizer adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove DeviceOptimizer ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove DeviceOptimizer adware using Combo Cleaner:
DeviceOptimizer adware removal:
Remove DeviceOptimizer-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 endorse content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). This software may decrease browsing quality and system performance. Additionally, advertising-supported software is classified as a privacy threat since it usually collects private data.
What does adware do?
Adware is designed to display advertisements on various interfaces. Furthermore, some types can generate redirects and gather sensitive information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Most of the profit is made through affiliate programs by promoting content. Adware developers may earn commission from ad clicks, website visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove DeviceOptimizer adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your computer and eliminate installed adware-type apps. It is worth mentioning that manual removal (performed without the aid of security programs) might be ineffective. Since various file leftovers can stay hidden within the system following the software's manual removal. What is more, the remnants might continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, advertising-supported software must be removed thoroughly.
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