Removing the FormatProduct adware-type app from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is FormatProduct?
While inspecting new submissions to the VirusTotal platform, our researchers discovered FormatProduct. This app is advertising-supported software (adware) from the AdLoad malware family. FormatProduct operates by running intrusive advert campaigns.
FormatProduct adware overview
Adware typically displays third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, surveys, overlays, coupons, etc.) on various interfaces. These advertisements often promote online scams, unreliable/hazardous software, and even malware. Some intrusive ads can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform stealthy downloads/installations.
It is pertinent to mention that any genuine products or services encountered via these adverts are most likely endorsed by scammers seeking to acquire illegitimate commissions by abusing this content's affiliate programs.
Advertising-supported software might not deliver intrusive advertisement campaigns if certain conditions are unsuitable, such as an incompatible browser/system or user geolocation, specific websites not visited, etc. However, regardless of whether FormatProduct displays ads – its presence on a system threatens device integrity and user privacy.
AdLoad applications commonly possess browser-hijacking functionalities, but we did not observe these qualities while testing FormatProduct.
Additionally, this rogue app likely has data-tracking abilities, as they are standard for adware. Targeted information may include: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, log-in credentials (usernames/passwords), personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. This vulnerable data can be monetized through sale to third-parties.
In summary, advertising-supported software like FormatProduct may cause system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by FormatProduct |
| 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 thousands of adware samples; Unbragging.app, BounceTopics, AnalysisStyle – are merely a couple of our newest finds.
This software typically appears ordinary/harmless and offers "useful" functionalities. However, these functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they are completely nonoperational. It must be mentioned that functional features do not prove a software's legitimacy or safety.
How did FormatProduct install on my computer?
Adware is distributed using the bundling marketing technique, which entails packing regular program installers with unwanted/malicious supplements.
Downloading from freeware and free file-hosting websites, P2P sharing networks, and other suspicious sources – poses a risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system. The threat is compounded by treating installation processes with negligence (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Some intrusive advertisements can execute scripts to perform sneaky downloads/installations upon being clicked. These ads are also used to proliferate advertising-supported software.
Additionally, adware is endorsed on legitimate-looking download webpages and scam sites. They are primarily accessed via redirects generated by misspelled URLs, websites using rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
Researching software and downloading it only from official/trustworthy channels is essential. We also recommend treating installation processes with care by reading terms, exploring possible options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all additional apps, extensions, tools, etc.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant while browsing, as fraudulent and malicious online content typically appears legitimate and innocuous. For example, while intrusive ads may look harmless – they redirect users to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, scam-promoting, pornography, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with advertisements and/or redirects of this kind, inspect the device and immediately remove all dubious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with FormatProduct, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once FormatProduct adware's installation is over:
FormatProduct 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 FormatProduct?
- STEP 1. Remove FormatProduct related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove FormatProduct ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove FormatProduct adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove FormatProduct ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove FormatProduct adware using Combo Cleaner:
FormatProduct adware removal:
Remove FormatProduct-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?
The ads delivered by adware can promote content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). This software can also diminish the browsing experience and system performance. Furthermore, adware usually has data-tracking functionalities – hence, it is classed as a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It displays advertisements on various interfaces, and some types can also generate redirects and gather sensitive data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue by endorsing various websites, apps, extensions, tools, products, services, etc. Most of the profit comes from affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove FormatProduct adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan systems and eliminate installed adware-type applications. It is noteworthy that manual removal (performed without the aid of security programs) might not be a perfect solution. In some cases, file leftovers remain hidden within the system after the adware has been manually removed. The remaining components might continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, advertising-supported software must be eliminated thoroughly.
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