How to uninstall PlatformExplorer from your computer
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is PlatformExplorer?
While examining the PlatformExplorer app, we noticed characteristics indicative of an advertising-supported application. The app exhibits intrusive advertisements that may lead to undesirable outcomes. Consequently, users are cautioned against placing trust in PlatformExplorer and are urged to refrain from its installation.
PlatformExplorer adware in detail
PlatformExplorer has been observed to display a variety of advertisements that may raise concerns among users. These ads often include pop-ups, banners, and other content. Users should exercise caution as these advertisements may promote potentially unreliable products, services, or websites.
One significant reason why these ads should not be trusted is the potential for malicious intent. Some advertisements within PlatformExplorer may lead users to phishing websites or prompt them to download suspicious software. These deceptive tactics could result in privacy breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, or the inadvertent installation of malware.
Moreover, PlatformExplorer's ads may promise unrealistic benefits or exaggerated claims to lure users into engaging with them. Falling for these misleading advertisements could lead to financial losses or disappointment for users who may end up with subpar products or services.
Additionally, PlatformExplorer may collect various types of user data. This can include but is not limited to device information, such as the device model, operating system, and unique identifiers. The app may also access and analyze user behavior, tracking the websites visited, search queries, and app usage patterns.
Users should be wary of the potential privacy implications associated with the collection of such data and consider the implications of sharing sensitive information with this app.
| Name | Ads by PlatformExplorer |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Rload.4), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.C), 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. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, PlatformExplorer raises concerns as an advertising-supported application, displaying intrusive ads that may compromise user security and privacy. The observed variety of advertisements, coupled with the potential for misleading content, underscores the importance of exercising caution.
Given these issues, users are strongly advised to refrain from trusting PlatformExplorer and avoid its installation to mitigate potential risks. More examples of similar apps that should be avoided are DataControl, MethodOnline, and PixelMegabyte.
How did PlatformExplorer install on my computer?
Adware developers commonly employ a distribution technique known as bundling, wherein undesired applications are added to the installation packages of other programs as supplementary offerings. Users unwittingly agree to install adware or other questionable apps when they neglect to modify the default settings, leaving options such as "Advanced" or "Custom" untapped or checkboxes selected.
Additionally, unwanted installations can occur through notifications from untrustworthy websites, downloads from peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, unofficial app stores, third-party downloaders, and analogous sources. Deceptive advertisements can also be used to trick users into causing unintended installations.
How to avoid installation of unwanted applications?
Opt for well-established app marketplaces like Google Play for Android, the App Store for iOS, and official websites when downloading apps. Prior to downloading any application, take the time to review user feedback and ratings to gauge its reliability. When going through installations, exercise diligence by adjusting settings or unchecking boxes to prevent the inclusion of unwanted apps.
Steer clear of clicking on advertisements or promotional links, particularly those asserting to provide free or exclusive content, especially when navigating potentially dubious websites. Keep your device's operating system and applications up to date and install reputable antivirus or anti-malware software.
If your computer is already infected with PlatformExplorer, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
A window that shows up after the installation of PlatformExplorer:
Website promoting PlatformExplorer:
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 PlatformExplorer?
- STEP 1. Remove PlatformExplorer related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove PlatformExplorer ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove PlatformExplorer adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove PlatformExplorer ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove PlatformExplorer adware using Combo Cleaner:
PlatformExplorer adware removal:
Remove PlatformExplorer-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?
Users of adware often face disruptive and intrusive advertisements, significantly compromising their online browsing experience. The incessant appearance of these ads not only hampers the user interface but also diminishes computer performance. Additionally, the use of adware raises concerns about potential privacy issues.
What does adware do?
Adware exhibits intrusive advertisements and can also be designed to take control of browsers, leading to a disruptive user experience. Furthermore, adware is notorious for its data-gathering capabilities.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers commonly earn income by promoting diverse products, websites, or services, deriving a substantial portion of their revenue through active engagement in affiliate programs. In these programs, developers receive commissions for undertaking specific actions, such as steering traffic or aiding in the sales process for affiliated entities.
Will Combo Cleaner remove PlatformExplorer?
Combo Cleaner guarantees the thorough removal of all identified adware-type applications from your computer. Relying solely on manual removal may prove inadequate, as certain files could remain hidden within the operating system. Using Combo Cleaner ensures a more comprehensive and effective approach.
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