How to remove AgentLocator adware and the advertisements it displays
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is AgentLocator?
While reviewing file submissions to the VirusTotal website, our research team discovered the AgentLocator application. Upon examination, we determined that it is adware. This app is part of the AdLoad malware family.
Advertising-supported software generates revenue for its developers through advertising. It typically operates by feeding users with unwanted and potentially malicious ads.
AgentLocator adware overview
Adware can display third-party graphical content (e.g., overlays, coupons, pop-ups, banners, etc.) on visited websites, desktops, or other interfaces. The delivered advertisements may endorse various scams, unreliable/harmful software, and even malware.
Some of the adverts can be triggered (by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform sneaky downloads/installations. Keep in mind that any genuine content encountered via these ads is most likely promoted by scammers who abuse its affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software might not operate as intended if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, specific sites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. However, even if AgentLocator does not display adverts – it threatens system safety and user privacy.
AdLoad applications often have browser-hijacking functionalities, although we did not observe these traits while investigating AgentLocator.
Most apps/extensions within the adware classification collect sensitive user information, and AgentLocator might have such data-tracking abilities as well.
Targeted information may include: visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, Internet cookies, log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. This vulnerable data can be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
In summary, advertising-supported software like AgentLocator may cause system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by AgentLocator |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:Adload-AB [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Adload.5), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.C), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.g), 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 analyzed numerous adware samples; IndexerUpgrade, DigitalSystem, and SystemLocator are merely a couple of our newest articles on applications within this classification.
Advertising-supported software typically appears harmless and offers useful features. However, it seldom operates as promised, and even if it does – that does not prove legitimacy or safety.
How did AgentLocator install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled with (packed alongside) ordinary programs. The threat of unintentionally permitting access for 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 being negligent when installing software (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Quick/Easy" settings, etc.).
Some intrusive advertisements can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations upon being clicked. These ads are also utilized in adware distribution.
Additionally, advertising-supported software is promoted on legitimate-looking download webpages and scam sites. They are primarily accessed via redirects generated by websites using rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive adverts, and installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is important to always research software prior to downloading or purchasing. Furthermore, all downloads must be performed from official and trustworthy sources. When installing, we recommend studying terms and options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplements (e.g., apps, extensions, etc.).
We also advise vigilance while browsing, as fraudulent and malicious online content usually appears genuine and innocuous. For example, while intrusive ads may look harmless – they redirect users to unreliable and questionable sites (e.g., adult dating, pornography, scam-promoting, gambling, etc.).
If you keep encountering such adverts/redirects, check the system and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with AgentLocator, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once AgentLocator adware's installation is over:
AgentLocator 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 AgentLocator?
- STEP 1. Remove AgentLocator related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove AgentLocator ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove AgentLocator adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove AgentLocator ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove AgentLocator adware using Combo Cleaner:
AgentLocator adware removal:
Remove AgentLocator-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?
Ads displayed by adware can promote content capable of causing system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, and other serious problems. The presence of advertising-supported software on a device can decrease browsing quality and system performance. Additionally, adware is considered a privacy threat since it usually collects vulnerable data.
What does adware do?
Adware is designed to generate revenue through advertising. Its primary functions can include placing ads on various interfaces, force-opening websites, and gathering private data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers profit predominantly via affiliate programs by endorsing content. They may earn commissions from ad clicks, site visits, file downloads, product purchases, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove AgentLocator adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your computer and eliminate detected adware-type apps. It must be mentioned that manual removal (performed without security programs) might be ineffective. After the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – various remnants (files) can stay hidden within the system. Furthermore, these components might continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate adware and other undesirable software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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