Removal instructions for the OptimalValue adware-type application
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is OptimalValue?
Our researchers discovered the OptimalValue rogue app while inspecting new file submissions to the VirusTotal site. Upon examination, we determined that this application is advertising-supported software (adware). OptimalValue is part of the AdLoad malware family.
OptimalValue adware overview
Adware is designed to feed users with undesirable and potentially malicious ads. This third-party graphical content (e.g., overlays, pop-ups, banners, coupons, etc.) is displayed on visited sites or other interfaces.
The advertisements can endorse online scams, unreliable/hazardous software, and even malware. When clicked on, some of these adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent. Keep in mind that any genuine products/services encountered via these ads are most likely promoted by scammers who abuse their affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software might not run intrusive advert campaigns if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, particular sites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. However, even if OptimalValue does not display advertisements – its presence on a system threatens device and user safety.
AdLoad applications often possess browser-hijacking abilities, but the OptimalValue app did not exhibit these qualities during testing.
What is more, OptimalValue likely has data-tracking functionalities. Adware tends to target browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. The gathered information can be shared with and/or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).
In summary, the presence of advertising-supported software like OptimalValue on devices can lead to system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by OptimalValue |
| 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.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 investigated countless adware-type applications; ProgramSource, Cyclostomatous, and Lobelia are merely a couple of examples.
Adware typically appears harmless and offers various functionalities. However, these features rarely work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all. It must be emphasized that even if a piece of software operates as indicated by its promotional material – that is not irrefutable proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did OptimalValue install on my computer?
Adware is promoted on legitimate-looking promotional webpages and scam sites. Most users enter these pages via redirects caused by websites employing rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, intrusive ads, spam browser notifications, or installed adware (with browser force-opening functionalities).
Advertising-supported software can also be bundled with (packed alongside) regular programs. The risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious sources (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and treating installations with negligence (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Additionally, intrusive advertisements spread this software. Once clicked on, some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We highly recommend researching software and downloading only from official/verified channels. When installing, we advise reading terms, studying possible options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, features, etc.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant when browsing since fake and malicious online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, while intrusive advertisements may look innocuous – they redirect to dubious websites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
If you keep encountering ads/redirects of this kind, check the device and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with OptimalValue, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once OptimalValue adware's installation is over:
OptimalValue 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 OptimalValue?
- STEP 1. Remove OptimalValue related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove OptimalValue ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove OptimalValue adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove OptimalValue ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove OptimalValue adware using Combo Cleaner:
OptimalValue adware removal:
Remove OptimalValue-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 ads can endorse content capable of causing system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, and other severe problems. Advertising-supported software can also diminish the browsing experience and system performance. It is considered a privacy threat as well because it usually possesses data-tracking functionalities.
What does adware do?
Adware runs intrusive advertisement campaigns. It can display third-party graphical content (ads) on various interfaces. Additionally, some adware types can force-open sites and collect private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue by promoting various websites, apps, browser extensions, products, services, and other content. Most of the profit is made through affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove OptimalValue adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate installed adware-type applications. Manual removal (unaided by security programs) might not be an ideal solution. In some cases, after the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – file leftovers stay hidden within the system. The remaining components may continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, advertising-supported software must be eliminated thoroughly.
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