Removing the LogarithmicProcess adware and the ads it displays
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is LogarithmicProcess?
LogarithmicProcess is the name of a rogue application that we discovered while inspecting new submissions to the VirusTotal website.
Our analysis revealed that this app is advertising-supported software (adware). LogarithmicProcess is part of the AdLoad malware family. It operates by running intrusive advertisement campaigns and may have other harmful capabilities.
LogarithmicProcess adware overview
Adware is designed to deliver intrusive advert campaigns. This software enables the placement of third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, overlays, coupons, surveys, etc.) on visited webpages and/or different interfaces.
The displayed advertisements can promote online scams, untrustworthy/hazardous software, and potential malware. Some can even be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform downloads/installations without user consent.
It is pertinent to mention that while legitimate products or services may be encountered through these ads – they are highly unlikely to be endorsed in this manner by any official parties. It is most probable that this endorsement is undertaken by scammers who abuse the content's affiliate programs to acquire illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software might not run intrusive ad campaigns if certain conditions are unsuitable, e.g., incompatible browser/system specs or user geolocation, specific websites not visited, etc. Yet even if LogarithmicProcess does not deliver adverts – its presence on a device remains a threat.
AdLoad applications often have browser-hijacking abilities – however, we did not observe these features while investigating LogarithmicProcess.
In most cases, adware possesses data-tracking functionalities, and this might apply to the LogarithmicProcess app. Targeted data may include: visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, finance-related information, and so forth. The gathered data can then be monetized via sale to third-parties.
To summarize, software like LogarithmicProcess may cause system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
Name | Ads by LogarithmicProcess |
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.H), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.j), 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 analyzed numerous adware samples; ProductLauncher, Ryder, SoftwareAssist, and ActiveEnviroment are merely a few of our newest finds.
Advertising-supported software tends to look legitimate and innocuous. It can also offer a wide variety of "useful" and "advantageous" functionalities. However, these functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all.
Keep in mind that even if an app or a browser extension operates as indicated by its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did LogarithmicProcess install on my computer?
Advertising-supported software can be bundled with (packed alongside) ordinary programs. The threat of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and by rushing through installation processes (e.g., skipping steps, using "Easy/Express" settings, etc.).
Additionally, adware is endorsed on legitimate-looking download pages and scam websites. Most users enter these webpages by redirects caused by sites employing rogue advertising networks, intrusive ads, mistyped URLs, spam browser notifications, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Some intrusive advertisements are capable of performing stealthy downloads/installations. These adverts are also utilized in adware distribution.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly advise researching software before downloading or purchasing it. Furthermore, all downloads must be performed from official and verified sources. When installing, we recommend reading terms, exploring possible options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all additional apps, extensions, features, and so on.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant while browsing since fraudulent and dangerous online content usually appears legitimate and innocuous. For example, while intrusive ads may look harmless – they redirect to unreliable and questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, adult dating, pornography, gambling, etc.).
If you keep encountering adverts/redirects of this kind, inspect the device and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with LogarithmicProcess, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once LogarithmicProcess adware's installation is over:
LogarithmicProcess 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 LogarithmicProcess?
- STEP 1. Remove LogarithmicProcess related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove LogarithmicProcess ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove LogarithmicProcess adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove LogarithmicProcess ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove LogarithmicProcess adware using Combo Cleaner:
LogarithmicProcess adware removal:
Remove LogarithmicProcess-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 decrease browsing quality and system performance. This software delivers advertisements that endorse content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). It typically has data-tracking abilities – hence, adware is classified as a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It is designed to display ads on visited websites and/or other interfaces. Additionally, some adware types are capable of force-opening sites and collecting vulnerable information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue predominantly via affiliate programs by promoting content. The developers may earn commissions from ad clicks, website visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove LogarithmicProcess adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate all adware-type apps installed. Note that manual removal (performed without the aid of security software) might be ineffective. In some cases, after the adware has been manually removed – various leftovers (files) stay hidden within the system. What is more, the remaining components might continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate software thoroughly.
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