Removing the ExplorerRecord adware-type application from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is ExplorerRecord?
Our researchers discovered ExplorerRecord while investigating submissions to the VirusTotal platform. This application is adware from the AdLoad malware family. ExplorerRecord runs intrusive advertisement campaigns and may have other harmful capabilities.
ExplorerRecord adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It displays advertisements on visited websites and/or other interfaces. These ads can endorse various scams, untrustworthy/hazardous software, and even malware. When clicked on, some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
Keep in mind that any genuine content encountered through these advertisements is most likely endorsed by scammers abusing its affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Software within this classification may require specific conditions to deliver intrusive advert campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system, visits to particular sites, etc.). However, even if ExplorerRecord does not display ads – it remains a threat to device and user safety.
AdLoad applications commonly have browser-hijacking traits, but we did not observe these features while analyzing ExplorerRecord adware.
Furthermore, this rogue application might have data-tracking functionalities. Advertising-supported software primarily targets browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. The gathered information can be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
In summary, the presence of software like ExplorerRecord on devices can lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by ExplorerRecord |
| 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. |
Adware examples
We have examined thousands of adware samples; ExtendedModule, MatrixObsession, GlobalAppSearch, and LocalAdmin are just some of our latest finds.
Advertising-supported software usually appears harmless and offers various 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 irrefutable proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did ExplorerRecord install on my computer?
Adware is promoted on legitimate-looking download webpages and scam sites. They are primarily accessed via redirects caused by misspelled URLs, intrusive ads, websites employing rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, and installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Advertising-supported software can also be bundled with regular programs. The threat of unintentionally allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and by treating installations with negligence (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Quick/Easy" settings, etc.).
Adware is proliferated by intrusive advertisements as well. Once clicked on, some of these adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We recommend researching software and downloading only from official/trustworthy sources. When installing, it is important to read terms, explore available options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all supplements (e.g., apps, tools, extensions, features, etc.).
We also advise vigilance when browsing, as fraudulent and dangerous online content typically appears legitimate and harmless. For example, while intrusive ads may look innocuous – they redirect to unreliable and questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, adult dating, pornography, gambling, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such advertisements/redirects, check the device and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with ExplorerRecord, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once ExplorerRecord adware's installation is over:
ExplorerRecord 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 ExplorerRecord?
- STEP 1. Remove ExplorerRecord related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove ExplorerRecord ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove ExplorerRecord adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove ExplorerRecord ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove ExplorerRecord adware using Combo Cleaner:
ExplorerRecord adware removal:
Remove ExplorerRecord-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-delivered advertisements endorse content that may cause severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). This software can decrease browsing quality and system performance. Additionally, advertising-supported software usually has data-tracking abilities – therefore, it is considered to be a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware is designed to run intrusive advert campaigns. Its primary functions can include displaying ads on various interfaces, generating redirects, and gathering private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers profit mainly through affiliate programs by promoting various websites, applications, browser extensions, products, services, and other content.
Will Combo Cleaner remove ExplorerRecord adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your computer and eliminate all adware-type applications that are installed. Remember that manual removal (performed without security tools) might not be a perfect solution. In some cases, after the software has been manually removed – various file leftovers remain hidden within the system. What is more, the remaining components might continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is crucial to eliminate advertising-supported software thoroughly.
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