How to remove UpgradeFormat adware from the operating system

What kind of application is UpgradeFormat?

While investigating new submissions to the VirusTotal site, our research team found the UpgradeFormat application. After checking out this piece of software, we determined that it is adware from the AdLoad malware family. UpgradeFormat is designed to generate revenue for its developers through advertising.

UpgradeFormat adware overview

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It usually operates by placing third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, overlays, coupons, surveys, etc.) on visited sites and/or other interfaces.

Adware might not work as designed if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, specific websites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. However, even if UpgradeFormat does not deliver ads – it threatens system integrity and user privacy.

Adware-displayed advertisements can endorse various scams, unreliable/hazardous software, and even malware. What is more, some of these adverts can be triggered (by being clicked) to perform stealthy downloads/installations.

It is pertinent to mention that while legitimate products or services may be encountered through these ads – they are unlikely to be promoted by their actual developers. This endorsement is most likely undertaken by scammers who are motivated to obtain illegitimate commissions by abusing the endorsed content's affiliate programs.

We have found many AdLoad adware-type apps with browser-hijacking functionalities – however, UpgradeFormat did not exhibit these traits during testing.

Advertising-supported software typically collects private information, and data-tracking abilities might be among UpgradeFormat's arsenal. Information of interest may include: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. This vulnerable data can be monetized via sale to third-parties.

To summarize, software like UpgradeFormat may cause infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.

Threat Summary:

Name	Ads by UpgradeFormat
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. ▼ 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-type applications; BitService, DataDesk, and CommonScheduler are just a couple of examples.

Advertising-supported software rarely appears suspicious – it tends to look ordinary and harmless. Users may be lured into downloading/installing this software by promises of "handy" functionalities. However, these functions are usually fake and nonoperational.

Keep in mind that even if an app or a browser extension works exactly as indicated by its promotional material – that does not prove its legitimacy or safety.

How did UpgradeFormat install on my computer?

The bundling marketing tactic, which entails packing regular program installation setups with unwanted/malicious additions – is used to proliferate adware.

Downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and rushing through installations (e.g., using "Easy/Express" settings, etc.) – pose a threat of unintentionally permitting access for bundled content into the device.

Additionally, adware is promoted on legitimate-looking download pages and scam sites. These webpages can be accessed via redirects caused by misspelled URLs, intrusive ads, websites using rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).

Advertising-supported software is also spread by intrusive advertisements. Once clicked on, some of these adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.

How to avoid installation of adware?

It is important to always research software before downloading or purchasing. All downloads must be made from official and trustworthy sources. When installing, we recommend reading terms, studying possible options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplements (e.g., apps, extensions, tools, etc.).

We also advise vigilance when browsing, as fake and dangerous online content usually appears genuine and harmless. For example, while intrusive ads may look innocuous – they redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, adult dating, gambling, pornography, etc.).

In case of continuous encounters with such adverts/redirects, check the device and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with UpgradeFormat, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.

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

UpgradeFormat 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 UpgradeFormat?
• STEP 1. Remove UpgradeFormat related files and folders from OSX.
• STEP 2. Remove UpgradeFormat ads from Safari.
• STEP 3. Remove UpgradeFormat adware from Google Chrome.
• STEP 4. Remove UpgradeFormat ads from Mozilla Firefox.

Video showing how to remove UpgradeFormat adware using Combo Cleaner:

UpgradeFormat adware removal:

Remove UpgradeFormat-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 adverts displayed by adware can promote content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Advertising-supported software can also decrease browsing quality and system performance. Furthermore, adware is classified as a privacy threat since it typically has data-tracking functionalities.

What does adware do?

Adware is designed to run intrusive advertisement campaigns. Its primary functions can include displaying ads on various interfaces, generating redirects, and collecting private information.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers profit primarily through affiliate programs by endorsing content (e.g., sites, software, products, services, etc.).

Will Combo Cleaner remove UpgradeFormat adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan computers and eliminate detected adware-type applications. It is noteworthy that manual removal (performed without security tools) might not be an ideal solution. After the adware has been manually removed – various leftovers (files) can remain hidden within the system. The remaining components might continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, advertising-supported software must be eliminated thoroughly.

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