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How to remove the ExploreDesktop adware-type from your Mac

Also Known As: Ads by ExploreDesktop
Type: Mac Virus
Damage level: Medium

What kind of application is ExploreDesktop?

We found the ExploreDesktop application during a routine inspection of new submissions to the VirusTotal platform. ExploreDesktop is adware from the AdLoad malware family. This app is designed to generate revenue for its developers by feeding users with unwanted and potentially dangerous advertisements.

ExploreDesktop adware

ExploreDesktop adware overview

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It typically operates by enabling the placement of third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, banners, overlays, service, etc.) on visited websites and/or different interfaces.

Note that specific conditions may be necessary for adware to run intrusive advertisement campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system specs, visits to particular sites, etc.). However, regardless of whether ExploreDesktop displays adverts – it remains a threat to device/user safety.

Adware-displayed advertisements primarily promote online scams, untrustworthy/hazardous software, and malware. Some can even be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform downloads/installations without user permission.

Keep in mind that any genuine content encountered via these ads is most likely endorsed by scammers abusing its affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.

AdLoad applications may have browser-hijacking functionalities – however, we did not observe these qualities while testing the ExploreDesktop adware.

This rogue app likely has data-tracking abilities, as they are standard for advertising-supported software. Information of interest may include: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so forth. The gathered data can be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.

To summarize, the presence of software like ExploreDesktop on devices may result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by ExploreDesktop
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Adload.17), 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.
▼ Download Combo Cleaner for Mac
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.

Adware examples

We have analyzed thousands of adware samples; ParameterBufferSimpleCacheProfessionalView, and ExpandedControl are merely a few of our latest finds. This software rarely appears illegitimate or otherwise suspicious – it tends to look ordinary and harmless.

Users may be lured into downloading/installing adware by promises of various useful and advantageous functionalities. However, these features are rarely operational. It must be stressed that even if an application or a browser extension works as indicated by its promotional material – that is not a guarantee of legitimacy or safety.

How did ExploreDesktop install on my computer?

Adware can have "official" promotional webpages, and it is endorsed on deceptive/scam sites. Users primarily access these pages via redirects generated by websites employing rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).

Advertising-supported software can also be bundled (packed together) with regular programs. The risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the device is increased by downloading from dubious sources (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and by treating installations with negligence (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Quick/Easy" settings, etc.).

Some intrusive adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission – upon being clicked. These advertisements proliferate adware as well.

How to avoid installation of adware?

We recommend researching software and downloading it only from official/trustworthy channels. Installation processes must be treated with care, e.g., by reading terms, exploring possible options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, etc.

We also advise exercising caution while browsing, as fraudulent and malicious online content typically appears legitimate and innocuous. For example, intrusive ads may look harmless – yet redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., pornography, adult dating, scam-promoting, gambling, etc.).

If you keep encountering adverts/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 ExploreDesktop, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.

Pop-up window displayed once ExploreDesktop adware's installation is over:

Pop-up displayed once ExploreDesktop installation is complete

ExploreDesktop adware's installation folder:

ExploreDesktop adware install 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:

Video showing how to remove ExploreDesktop adware using Combo Cleaner:

ExploreDesktop adware removal:

Remove ExploreDesktop-related potentially unwanted applications from your "Applications" folder:

Manual removal of malicious Mac applications

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

Mac Go To Folder step

Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...

Mac removing related files and folders - step 1Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/LaunchAgents - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents/

Mac go to /Library/LaunchAgents - step 2

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.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 2Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/Application Support/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/Application Support - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/Application Support/

Mac go to /Library/Application Support - step 2

In the "Application Support" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, "MplayerX" or "NicePlayer", and move these folders to the Trash.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 3Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:

Mac go to ~/Library/LaunchAgents - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents/

Mac go to ~/Library/LaunchAgents - step 2

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.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 4Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/LaunchDaemons - step 1

In the "Go to Folder..." bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons/

Mac go to /Library/LaunchDaemons - step 2

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.

Mac removing malware related files and folders - step 5Scan 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.

Mac remove malware with Combo Cleaner - step 1

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.

Mac remove malware with Combo Cleaner - step 2

After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.

Remove malicious extensions from Internet browsers

Safari iconRemove malicious Safari extensions:

Removal of malicious extensions in Safari - step 1

Open the Safari browser, from the menu bar, select "Safari" and click "Preferences...".

Removal of malicious extensions in Safari - step 2

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.

Google Chrome logoRemove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Removal of malicious extensions in Google Chrome - step 1

Click the Chrome menu icon Google 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".

Removal of malicious extensions in Google Chrome - step 2

  • If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.

Mozilla Firefox logoRemove malicious extensions from Mozilla Firefox:

Removal of malicious extensions in Mozilla Firefox - step 1

Click the Firefox menu firefox menu icon (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".

Removal of malicious extensions in Mozilla Firefox - step 2

  • 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-delivered ads can endorse content capable of causing system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, and other serious problems. This software can diminish the browsing experience and system performance. It usually has data-tracking functionalities – therefore, adware is deemed to be a privacy threat.

What does adware do?

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It operates by displaying advertisements on visited websites and/or other interfaces. Some adware types are also capable of force-opening websites and gathering vulnerable information.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware generates revenue by promoting various websites, applications, browser extensions, products, services, etc. 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 ExploreDesktop adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate installed adware-type apps. It is noteworthy that manual removal (performed without the aid of security software) might not be an ideal solution. In some instances, after the adware has been manually removed – file leftovers remain hidden within the system. Additionally, these components might continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, adware and other unwanted software must be removed thoroughly.

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About the author:

Tomas Meskauskas

Tomas Meskauskas - expert security researcher, professional malware analyst.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of over 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an author and editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest online security threats. Contact Tomas Meskauskas.

PCrisk security portal is brought by a company RCS LT. Joined forces of security researchers help educate computer users about the latest online security threats. More information about the company RCS LT.

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Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

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