Removal instructions for the Pipidae adware-type application
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is Pipidae?
Pipidae is a rogue application that our research team discovered during a routine inspection of new submissions to the VirusTotal website. Upon investigation, we determined that it is adware belonging to the Pirrit adware family. This piece of software is designed to run intrusive advertisement campaigns. Pipidae may display ads and have other harmful capabilities.
Pipidae adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It enables the placement of third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, overlays, coupons, banners, etc.) on visited websites and/or other interfaces.
It is noteworthy that software within this classification might not deliver intrusive ad campaigns if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, specific sites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. Yet even if Pipidae does not display adverts – its presence on a system endangers device/user safety.
Advertising-supported software delivers advertisements promoting online scams, untrustworthy/harmful software, and even malware. When clicked on, some of the ads can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
Note that while legitimate content may be encountered via these adverts – it is unlikely to be endorsed by any official parties. It is most probable that this promotion is undertaken by scammers abusing the products' affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.
We have found apps from the Pirrit family with browser-hijacking capabilities. However, we did not observe these functionalities while testing Pipidae.
Furthermore, adware usually has data-tracking abilities, and this might apply to the Pipidae application. Targeted information may include: URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. The gathered data can then be shared with and/or sold to third-parties.
To summarize, the presence of software like Pipidae on devices can lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.
| Name | Ads by Pipidae |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:Pirrit-CB [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Adware.MAC.Generic.27866), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Pirrit.BM), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Pirrit.ac), Full List (VirusTotal) |
| Additional Information | This application belongs to the Pirrit adware 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
WouldLatest, PlatformProduct, ProduceSelect, and DefaultProgram are merely some examples of adware we have investigated recently.
Advertising-supported software typically looks legitimate and innocuous. It can also offer a broad range of "useful" functionalities, which are rarely operational. 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 Pipidae install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled with regular programs. The risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Intrusive advertisements proliferate adware as well. Some of the ads can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform downloads/installations without user consent.
Furthermore, advertising-supported software can be promoted on legitimate-looking download and deceptive/scam sites. Most users access these pages via redirects caused by websites utilizing rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, mistyped URLs, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is important to always research software prior to downloading or purchasing it. Additionally, all downloads must be performed from official and verified sources. Installation processes must be treated with caution, e.g., by reading terms, inspecting possible options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, tools, etc.
We also advise being vigilant when browsing since fraudulent and dangerous online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, intrusive advertisements may look innocuous – however, they redirect to highly questionable sites (e.g., gambling, scam-promoting, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
If you keep encountering ads and/or redirects of this kind, inspect the system and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with Pipidae, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Screenshot of the pop-up window displayed when Pipidae adware is present on the system:
Text presented in this pop-up:
"Pipidae" will damage your computer. You should move it to the Trash.
This file was downloaded on an unknown date.
[Move to Trash]
[Cancel]
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 Pipidae?
- STEP 1. Remove Pipidae related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove Pipidae ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove Pipidae adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove Pipidae ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove adware and browser hijackers from a Mac computer:
Pipidae adware removal:
Remove Pipidae-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 can diminish the browsing experience and system performance. It displays adverts that promote content capable of causing system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, and other serious problems. What is more, advertising-supported software is deemed to be a privacy threat, as it usually has data-tracking functionalities.
What does adware do?
Adware runs intrusive advertisement campaigns. Primary functions can include displaying ads on visited webpages and/or other interfaces, generating redirects, and gathering sensitive information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers profit mainly through affiliate programs by promoting various websites, software, products, services, and other content.
Will Combo Cleaner remove Pipidae adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan computers and eliminate installed adware-type applications. Keep in mind that manual removal (performed without security software) might not be a perfect solution. In some instances, even after the software has been manually removed – various file leftovers stay hidden within the system. Additionally, the remnants can continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate adware thoroughly.
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