How to remove the OptimizationFlex adware and the adverts it displays
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is OptimizationFlex?
While checking out new file submissions to the VirusTotal platform, our research team discovered the OptimizationFlex adware-type application. It is part of the AdLoad malware family. Advertising-supported software is designed to feed users with unwanted and potentially malicious ads.
OptimizationFlex adware overview
Adware enables the placement of third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, coupons, overlays, banners, etc.) on visited websites and/or other interfaces. Specific conditions may be required for this software to operate in this manner, such as a compatible browser/system or user geolocation, visits to particular sites, and so on. However, regardless of whether OptimizationFlex displays ads – it remains a threat.
While AdLoad applications commonly have browser-hijacking capabilities, we did not observe these qualities while analyzing OptimizationFlex.
Adware-delivered adverts primarily promote online scams, unreliable/dangerous software, and even malware. Some of these advertisements can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform downloads/installations without user consent.
Keep in mind that any genuine products/services encountered through these ads are most likely endorsed in this manner by scammers who abuse their affiliate programs to acquire illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software usually collects private information, and OptimizationFlex might have such data-tracking functionalities as well.
Targeted information typically includes: URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. This sensitive data can then be monetized via sale to third-parties.
In summary, the presence of software like OptimizationFlex on devices may lead to system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by OptimizationFlex |
| 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
We have examined thousands of adware-type applications; NanoSet, CapacityHour, VectorGallery, and OperationNetwork are but a few examples.
Advertising-supported software usually appears legitimate and harmless. Users are enticed into downloading/installing it by promises of various "useful" functionalities. These features seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all.
It must be stressed that even if a piece of software operates as indicated by its promotional material – that does not prove its legitimacy or safety.
How did OptimizationFlex install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled with ordinary programs. The risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and by treating installation processes with negligence (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Quick/Easy" settings, etc.).
Advertising-supported software can also have "official" promotional webpages, and it is endorsed on deceptive/scam sites. Most visitors enter these pages via redirects caused by websites utilizing rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Software within this classification is proliferated by intrusive advertisements as well. When clicked on, some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is essential to research software and download only from official/trustworthy sources. When installing, we advise reading terms, studying possible options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all additional apps, extensions, tools, features, etc.
Another recommendation is to be careful while browsing since fake and malicious online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, despite their innocuous appearance – intrusive ads redirect to highly questionable sites (e.g., gambling, scam-promoting, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
If you keep encountering 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 OptimizationFlex, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once OptimizationFlex adware's installation is over:
OptimizationFlex 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 OptimizationFlex?
- STEP 1. Remove OptimizationFlex related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove OptimizationFlex ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove OptimizationFlex adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove OptimizationFlex ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove OptimizationFlex adware using Combo Cleaner:
OptimizationFlex adware removal:
Remove OptimizationFlex-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 advertisements can promote content capable of causing serious problems (e.g., system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, etc.). The presence of this software on a device may result in a decreased browsing experience or 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. Its primary functions can include displaying advertisements on various interfaces, generating redirects, and gathering sensitive data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue by endorsing various sites, applications, browser extensions, products, services, and so forth. Most of the profit is made through affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove OptimizationFlex adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate installed adware-type apps. It is pertinent to mention that manual removal (performed without security programs) might not be an ideal solution. In some cases, file leftovers remain hidden within the system after the adware has been manually removed. The remaining components might continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate advertising-supported software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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