How to remove ExplorerMainFrame adware from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is ExplorerMainFrame?
ExplorerMainFrame is an adware-type application that our research team found while inspecting new submissions to the VirusTotal site. This piece of advertising-supported software is part of the AdLoad malware family. ExplorerMainFrame is designed to run intrusive ad campaigns.
ExplorerMainFrame adware overview
Adware operates by enabling the placement of third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, coupons, overlays, surveys, etc.) on various interfaces. Notably, this software might not deliver intrusive advert campaigns if the system/browser is incompatible, specific sites are not visited, or other conditions are unusable. However, even if ExplorerMainFrame does not displays ads – it remains a threat.
Adware-displayed advertisements promote online scams, unreliable/harmful software, and even malware. Once clicked on, some of these adverts can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
Keep in mind that any legitimate content encountered through these ads is unlikely to be endorsed in this manner by its developers or other official parties. It is most probable that this promotion is undertaken by scammers who abuse the products' affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.
In many cases, AdLoad apps have browser hijacker capabilities. However, we did not observe these functionalities while investigating the ExplorerMainFrame application.
Furthermore, this adware-type app likely has data-tracking abilities. Targeted information may include: visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, finance-related data, and so forth. The collected information can then be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
In summary, advertising-supported software like ExplorerMainFrame can cause system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by ExplorerMainFrame |
| 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.Searchpr), 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; EssentialEntry, FrequencyField, and ElementSync are merely a couple of examples.
Advertising-supported software usually appears legitimate and innocuous. Users are enticed into downloading/installing this software by promises of various useful functionalities. Typically, these features are fake and nonoperational.
It must be stressed that even if an application or a browser extension works as indicated in its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did ExplorerMainFrame install on my computer?
Adware is spread using the bundling tactic – packing regular program installers with unwanted/malicious additions. The risk of allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from untrustworthy sources (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Quick/Easy" settings, etc.).
Intrusive advertisements proliferate adware as well. Some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations upon being clicked.
Advertising-supposed software can also have "official" promotional webpages, and it is endorsed on scam sites. Most visitors access these pages via redirects caused by websites using rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly recommend researching software and downloading only from official/verified channels. It is crucial to treat installation with caution, e.g., by reading terms, studying possible options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, tools, etc.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant when browsing since fake and malicious online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, intrusive advertisements may look innocuous yet redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, adult dating, pornography, 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 ExplorerMainFrame, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once ExplorerMainFrame adware's installation is over:
ExplorerMainFrame 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 ExplorerMainFrame?
- STEP 1. Remove ExplorerMainFrame related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove ExplorerMainFrame ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove ExplorerMainFrame adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove ExplorerMainFrame ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove ExplorerMainFrame adware using Combo Cleaner:
ExplorerMainFrame adware removal:
Remove ExplorerMainFrame-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-delivered adverts endorse websites/software capable of causing serious issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). This software can decrease browsing quality and system performance. Additionally, adware usually has data-tracking functionalities – hence, it is classed as a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It operates by running intrusive advert campaigns by displaying ads on various interfaces. Furthermore, some adware-types can force-open webpages and gather private data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers generate revenue primarily through affiliate programs by endorsing various websites, apps, extensions, services, products, etc.
Will Combo Cleaner remove ExplorerMainFrame adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate all adware-type applications installed. Keep in mind that manual removal (unaided by security programs) might not be ideal. In some cases, even after the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – various file leftovers remain hidden within the system. What is more, the remaining components can continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, it is crucial to eliminate adware thoroughly.
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