Removing OfficerValue adware-type app and the adverts it displays
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is OfficerValue?
Our researchers discovered the OfficerValue app while reviewing new submissions to the VirusTotal website. After investigating this piece of software, we learned that it is adware belonging to the AdLoad malware family. OfficerValue operates by displaying intrusive advertisements and may have other harmful capabilities.
OfficerValue adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. As its name implies, this software generates revenue through advertising. Typically, adware does so by enabling the placement of third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, coupons, surveys, overlays, and other ads) on various interfaces.
It is noteworthy that specific conditions may be required for this software to operate as designed (e.g., compatible browser/system, visit to particular websites, etc.). However, regardless of whether OfficerValue displays advertisements – its presence on a system endangers device integrity and user safety.
Adware-delivered adverts mainly promote online scams, untrustworthy/hazardous software, and even malware. When clicked on, some intrusive advertisements can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations. Keep in mind that any genuine content encountered through these ads is most likely endorsed by scammers who abuse its affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Furthermore, AdLoad apps commonly have browser-hijacking functionalities. However, we did not observe these qualities while testing OfficerValue.
What is more, advertising-supported software usually collects vulnerable information, and this might be true of the OfficerValue app. Targeted data can include: visited URLs, viewed webpages, searched queries, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. The gathered information can be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
In summary, the presence of software like OfficerValue on devices can lead to system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by OfficerValue |
| 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
Unharmonious.app, StandartSkill, and EngageInput are just a couple examples of adware we have examined recently. Software within this classification typically appears legitimate and ordinary. It can also offer a broad range of useful features. However, these functionalities rarely work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all.
It must be mentioned that even if an application or a browser extension operates as indicated by its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did OfficerValue install on my computer?
Adware can have "official" promotional pages, and it is endorsed on scam websites. Users primarily enter these webpages via redirects generated by sites employing rogue advertising networks, intrusive adverts, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Advertising-supported software can also be bundled with regular programs. Downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and treating installations with negligence (e.g., using "Quick/Easy" settings, etc.) – increase the risk of unintentionally allowing bundled content into the device.
Some intrusive advertisements can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform downloads/installations without user permission. These adverts are used to distribute adware as well.
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 trustworthy sources. When installing, we advise reading terms, inspecting available options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, tools, and so forth.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant while browsing since fake and dangerous online content usually appears genuine and harmless. For example, intrusive ads may look innocuous yet redirect to highly questionable sites (e.g., gambling, adult dating, pornography, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with advertisements and/or redirects of this kind, inspect the device and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with OfficerValue, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once OfficerValue adware's installation is over:
OfficerValue 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 OfficerValue?
- STEP 1. Remove OfficerValue related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove OfficerValue ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove OfficerValue adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove OfficerValue ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove OfficerValue adware using Combo Cleaner:
OfficerValue adware removal:
Remove OfficerValue-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 delivers advertisements that endorse harmful content capable of causing serious problems (e.g., system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, etc.). The presence of this software on a device can decrease browsing quality and system performance. Furthermore, adware is deemed to be a privacy threat since it typically has data-tracking functionalities.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. Its purpose is to generate revenue through advertising. Primary functions can include displaying ads on various interfaces (e.g., visited websites, desktops, etc.), generating redirects, and collecting private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue by promoting content. The developers may earn commissions from ad clicks, site visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar. Most of the profit is made through affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove OfficerValue adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate all adware-type applications installed. It must be mentioned that manual removal (performed without the aid of security software) 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 may continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, it is essential to remove advertising-supported software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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