Removing the LauncherSync adware-type app from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What kind of application is LauncherSync?
Our researchers discovered LauncherSync while investigating new file submissions to the VirusTotal website. After examining this app, we learned that it is adware from the AdLoad malware family. Advertising-supported software is designed to run intrusive ad campaigns.
LauncherSync adware overview
Adware typically operates by displaying third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, coupons, banners, overlays, etc.) on visited websites or other interfaces. The ads can endorse online scams, untrustworthy/hazardous software, and even malware. When clicked on, some intrusive adverts can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
Note that while legitimate products or services may be encountered via these advertisements – they are unlikely to be promoted by their actual developers. It is most likely that this promotion is undertaken by scammers who abuse the endorsed content's affiliate programs to acquire illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software might need specific conditions to deliver intrusive advert campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system specs, visits to particular websites, etc.). Regardless of whether LauncherSync displays ads – its presence endangers device and user safety.
AdLoad applications commonly have browser-hijacking capabilities, although we did not observe these traits while testing LauncherSync.
Additionally, LauncherSync likely has data-tracking functionalities, as they are standard for adware. Targeted information may include: visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, finance-related data, and so on. The gathered information can be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
To summarize, the presence of software like LauncherSync on devices can lead to system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by LauncherSync |
| 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 analyzed countless adware samples; ProgressExplorer, ListScheduler, ClearInitiator, ProcessDisplay, and LogicalBrowser are just some of our latest articles.
Software within this category appears legitimate and harmless. Users may be lured into downloading/installing this software by promises of "handy" functionalities. However, these features are usually fake and nonfunctional, as their sole purpose is to serve as bait.
Yet even if a piece of software works exactly as indicated by its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did LauncherSync install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled (packed together) with ordinary programs. Downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and treating installations with negligence (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.) – increase the risk of unintentionally allowing bundled content into the device.
Some intrusive ads can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission. These advertisements proliferate advertising-supported software as well.
Additionally, adware is promoted on legitimate-looking webpages and scam sites. Most visitors enter these pages via redirects caused by websites utilizing rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
We highly recommend researching software and downloading it only from official/verified sources. Installation processes must be approached with care, e.g., by reading terms, exploring available options, using the "Custom/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, intrusive ads may look innocuous yet redirect to unreliable/questionable sites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with adverts and/or 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 LauncherSync, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once LauncherSync adware's installation is over:
LauncherSync 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 LauncherSync?
- STEP 1. Remove LauncherSync related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove LauncherSync ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove LauncherSync adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove LauncherSync ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove LauncherSync adware using Combo Cleaner:
LauncherSync adware removal:
Remove LauncherSync-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-displayed advertisements may endorse content that can cause system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, and other serious problems. This software can decrease browsing quality and system performance. Additionally, adware is classed as a privacy threat since it usually has data-tracking abilities.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It displays third-party graphical content (ads) on various interfaces, and this software may be capable of generating redirects and collecting private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers generate revenue by endorsing various websites, software, products, services, and other content. Most of the profit is made via affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove LauncherSync adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan computers and eliminate installed adware-type applications. It is pertinent to mention that manual removal (performed without security programs) might not be an ideal solution. In some instances, various leftovers (files) stay hidden within the system after the adware has been manually removed. What is more, the remnants can continue to run and cause issues. Hence, it is essential to eliminate advertising-supported software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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