How to remove the StandartServer adware-type application
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is StandartServer?
Our research team discovered the StandartServer app while reviewing new file submissions to the VirusTotal website. Upon inspection, we learned that this application is adware from the AdLoad malware family. StandartServer operates by delivering intrusive advert campaigns.
StandartServer adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It is designed to display ads on various interfaces, such as visited sites, desktops, or others. This third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, banners, overlays, etc.) predominantly promotes online scams, unreliable/dangerous software, and even malware.
Upon being clicked, some intrusive adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent. It is pertinent to mention that any genuine content encountered via these advertisements is most likely endorsed by scammers who abuse its affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Software within this classification may require certain conditions to run intrusive advertisement campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system specs or user geolocation, visits to particular websites, etc.). Regardless of whether StandartServer displays ads – its presence endangers device/user safety.
AdLoad apps commonly have browser-hijacking functionalities – however, we did not observe these capabilities while testing StandartServer.
This adware-type application might have data-tracking abilities, as they are standard for adware. Information of interest may include: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. The gathered data can be monetized via sale to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).
To summarize, the presence of software like StandartServer on devices may result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
Name | Ads by StandartServer |
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.G), 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. |
Adware examples
We have investigated countless adware-type applications; EnumeratorProgress, ProcessorSelect, and OpenInput are just a few of our newest finds.
Advertising-supported software usually appears ordinary and innocuous. It can also offer a wide variety of functionalities, which are rarely operational. Note that even if an app or a browser extension works as promised – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did StandartServer install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled with regular programs. The risk of allowing bundled content into the device is increased by downloading from untrustworthy sources (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and by rushing through installations (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Some intrusive adverts are capable of executing scripts to perform sneaky downloads/installations upon being clicked. These advertisements are used to proliferate advertising-supported software as well.
Adware can also have "official" promotional pages, and it is endorsed on scam websites. Most visitors access these webpages via redirects caused by sites using rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is important to research software and download it only from official/verified channels. Installation processes must be treated with caution, e.g., by reading terms, exploring possible options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all additional apps, extensions, etc.
We advise being careful while browsing, as fraudulent and malicious online content typically appears legitimate and innocuous. For example, intrusive adverts may look harmless – yet redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
In case of encounters with such ads/redirects, inspect the device and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with StandartServer, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once StandartServer adware's installation is over:
StandartServer 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 StandartServer?
- STEP 1. Remove StandartServer related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove StandartServer ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove StandartServer adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove StandartServer ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove StandartServer adware using Combo Cleaner:
StandartServer adware removal:
Remove StandartServer-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. It displays advertisements that endorse harmful content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Adware usually has data-tracking functionalities – hence, it is also classed as a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It typically operates by enabling the placement of third-party graphical content (ads) on various interfaces. Some types can also force-open websites and gather private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue through content promotion. Its developers may earn commissions from ad clicks, site visits, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar. Most of the profit is made through affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove StandartServer adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate detected adware-type apps. It must be mentioned that manual removal (unaided by security programs) might not be an ideal solution. In some instances, after the software has been manually removed – file remnants stay hidden within the system. What is more, the remaining components might continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate advertising-supported software thoroughly.
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