Removal instructions for MicroProcess adware and the ads it displays
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is MicroProcess?
Our researchers found the MicroProcess adware while reviewing new file submissions to the VirusTotal platform. This software is part of the AdLoad malware family. MicroProcess is designed to run intrusive advertisement campaigns, and it may have additional harmful abilities.
MicroProcess adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It operates by generating revenue through advertising. Typically, this is achieved by enabling the placement of third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, overlays, coupons, etc.) on visited websites and/or other interfaces.
However, certain conditions may be required for adware to deliver intrusive ad campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system, visits to specific sites, etc.). Even if MicroProcess does not display advertisements – its presence on a device is a threat to system/user safety.
The adverts displayed by this software primarily promote online scams, unreliable/hazardous programs, and even malware. Once clicked on, some intrusive ads can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.
Keep in mind that while genuine products or services may be encountered through these advertisements – they are 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.
While AdLoad adware may have browser-hijacking functionalities, the MicroProcess application did not exhibit these qualities during our analysis.
Furthermore, this adware-type app might have data-tracking abilities. Advertising-supported software usually collects browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, finance-related data, etc. The gathered information can be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
To summarize, software like MicroProcess may cause system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by MicroProcess |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names (.system) | Avast (MacOS:Adload-CL [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Trojan.MAC.Generic.116706), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/TrojanDownloader.Adloa), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Downloader.OSX.Agent.ad), 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 investigated thousands of adware samples; PlatformExplorer, DataControl, MethodOnline, PixelMegabyte, VisionCoordinator – are just some of our newest finds.
Advertising-supported software typically appears ordinary and harmless. It can also offer a broad range of useful and advantageous features. However, these functionalities are rarely operational. It must be stressed that even if a piece of software works as indicated by its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did MicroProcess install on my computer?
Adware is distributed using the bundling marketing technique – packing regular program installers with unwanted/malicious supplements.
Download from untrustworthy sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushed installations (e.g., ignored terms, skipped steps/sections, used "Easy/Express" settings, etc.) – increase the threat of unintentionally permitting access for bundled content into the device.
Furthermore, adware may have "official" promotional webpages, and it is endorsed on deceptive/scam sites. Most users enter these pages through redirects generated by websites employing rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, misspelled URLs, or installed adware (with the ability to force-open webpages).
Advertising-supported software is also proliferated by intrusive adverts. Once clicked on, some of the advertisements can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly advise researching software prior to downloading or purchasing it. Another recommendation is to download only from official and verified channels. When installing, it is essential to read terms, explore possible options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all additional apps, extensions, features, tools, etc.
Fake and dangerous online content usually appears legitimate and innocuous – therefore, we advise being careful while browsing. For example, while intrusive advertisements may look harmless – they redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, scam-promoting, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such adverts/redirects, check the system and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with MicroProcess, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Files related to the MicroProcess adware that need to be removed:
- ~/Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/Services/com.MicroProcess.service.app
- ~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.MicroProcess.service.plist
- /Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/System/com.MicroProcess.system
- /Library/LaunchDaemons/com.MicroProcess.system.plist
Pop-up window displayed when MicroProcess adware is present on the system:
Text presented in this pop-up:
"MicroProcessd" will damage your computer.
This file was downloaded on a unknown date.
OK
Show in Finder
IMPORTANT NOTE! In some cases malicious applications like MicroProcess alter system proxy settings, thereby causing unwanted redirects to a variety of questionable websites.
The redirects are likely to remain even after removing the application itself. Thus, you'll have to restore them manually.
Step 1: Click on the gear icon in the Dock to navigate to the system settings. If the icon is not present in the Dock, you can find it in the Launchpad.
Step 2: Navigate to the Network settings.
Step 3: Select the connected network and click "Advanced...".
Step 4: Click on the "Proxies" tab and untick all the protocols. You should also set the settings of each protocol to default - "*.local, 169.254/16".
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 MicroProcess?
- STEP 1. Remove MicroProcess related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove MicroProcess ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove MicroProcess adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove MicroProcess ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove MicroProcess adware using Combo Cleaner:
MicroProcess adware removal:
Remove MicroProcess-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 adverts that endorse content capable of causing severe issues, such as system infections, financial losses, etc. Advertising-supported software can also decrease browsing quality and system performance. Due to the fact that it usually has data-tracking functionalities – adware is classified as a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware is designed to deliver intrusive advertisement campaigns. This software can display ads on various interfaces, and some types are also capable of generating redirects and collecting sensitive data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers profit primarily through affiliate programs by promoting content. They may earn commissions from ad clicks, webpage visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove MicroProcess adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate all adware-type applications present. Note that manual removal (performed without security tools) might not be an ideal solution. In some instances, after the software has been manually removed – file leftovers remain hidden within the system. Furthermore, these remnants may continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, adware must be eliminated thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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