Removing the UniversalSync adware-type application from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is UniversalSync?
Our researchers discovered the UniversalSync app while investigating new submissions to the VirusTotal site. After analyzing this application, we learned that it is advertising-supported software (adware) belonging to the AdLoad malware family. UniversalSync runs intrusive advertisement campaigns.
UniversalSync adware overview
Adware is designed to generate revenue for its developers by feeding users with unwanted and potentially malicious ads. This is the third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, banners, overlays, coupons, surveys, etc.) is displayed on visited websites and/or other interfaces.
It must be mentioned that advertising-supported software might not deliver intrusive advert campaigns if the browser/system is incompatible, specific sites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. However, even if UniversalSync does not display advertisements – it remains a threat to device/user safety.
Adware-delivered adverts mainly promote online scams, unreliable/dangerous software, and even malware. Some intrusive ads can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform stealthy downloads/installations.
It is noteworthy that while genuine products or services may be encountered via these advertisements – they are highly unlikely to be endorsed in this manner by any official parties. It is most probable that this promotion is undertaken by scammers who abuse the content's affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
In many cases, AdLoad apps exhibit browser-hijacking functionalities – however, we did not observe these traits while testing UniversalSync.
Advertising-supported software usually has data-tracking abilities, and this might apply to UniversalSync. Targeted information may include: URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, finance-related data, and so on. The collected information can then be shared with and/or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).
To summarize, the presence of software like UniversalSync on devices can result in system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by UniversalSync |
| 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
VirtualBalance, UpperTheory, and LogFormula are merely a couple examples of adware we have analyzed recently. Advertising-supported software typically appears legitimate and innocuous. It also offers a broad range of "useful" and "advantageous" functionalities. However, these functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all. It must be stressed that operational features do not guarantee a software's legitimacy or safety.
How did UniversalSync install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled with (packed alongside) ordinary programs. The risk of allowing bundled content into the device is increased by downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and by rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Adware can also have "official" download pages, and it is promoted on deceptive/scam sites. Users primarily enter webpages of this kind via redirects generated by misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, websites using rogue advertising networks, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Additionally, intrusive adverts proliferate advertising-supported software. Once clicked on, some of these advertisements can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is important to always research software prior to downloading or purchasing it. Furthermore, all downloads must be performed from official and trustworthy sources. When installing, it is crucial to read the terms, inspect available options, use the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opt out of all additions (e.g., apps, extensions, features, etc.).
Another recommendation is to be careful while browsing since fake and dangerous online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, despite their innocuous appearance – intrusive ads redirect to unreliable and questionable websites (e.g., gambling, scam-promoting, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with advertisements and/or redirects of this kind, check the device and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with UniversalSync, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once UniversalSync adware's installation is over:
UniversalSync 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 UniversalSync?
- STEP 1. Remove UniversalSync related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove UniversalSync ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove UniversalSync adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove UniversalSync ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove UniversalSync adware using Combo Cleaner:
UniversalSync adware removal:
Remove UniversalSync-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 adverts that promote content capable of causing system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, and other serious problems. This software may diminish the browsing experience and system performance. Advertising-supported software usually has data-tracking functionalities – therefore, it is considered to be a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware is designed to deliver intrusive advertisement campaigns. Primary functions can include displaying ads on various interfaces, generating redirects, and collecting vulnerable information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue primarily via affiliate programs by endorsing content. The developers may earn commissions from ad clicks, website visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove UniversalSync adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan systems and eliminate all adware-type applications present. It must be mentioned that manual removal (performed without security software) might not be an ideal solution. Since even after the adware has been manually removed – various leftover files can remain hidden within the system. Furthermore, these components might continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, advertising-supported software must be eliminated thoroughly.
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