Removal instructions for the BasicDisplay adware-type app
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is BasicDisplay?
Our researchers discovered the BasicDisplay adware while browsing file submissions to the VirusTotal website. After examining this application, we determined that it is part of the AdLoad malware family. Advertising-supported software (adware) is designed to generate revenue for its developers through advertising.
BasicDisplay adware overview
Adware typically operates by placing third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, banners, overlays, surveys, etc.) on various interfaces, such as visited websites, desktops, and others.
However, this software may need certain conditions to display advertisements (e.g., compatible browser/system specs, visits to particular sites, etc.). Yet even if BasicDisplay does not deliver ads – it remains a threat to system safety and user privacy.
Adverts displayed by adware often promote online scams, unreliable/hazardous software, and malware. Some can even be triggered (by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform downloads/installations without user permission.
It is pertinent to mention that while legitimate products or services may be encountered through these advertisements – they are unlikely to be endorsed by their actual developers or other official parties. This endorsement is most likely undertaken by scammers motivated to obtain illegitimate commissions by abusing the promoted content's affiliate programs.
AdLoad apps commonly possess browser-hijacking capabilities – however, BasicDisplay did not exhibit these traits while we were testing it.
Additionally, adware tends to have data-tracking functionalities, and this might apply to the BasicDisplay app. Targeted information may include: URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so forth. The collected data can be monetized via sale to third-parties.
To summarize, the presence of advertising-supported software like BasicDisplay on devices may lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by BasicDisplay |
| 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 examined numerous adware-type apps; SchedulerProtocol, ExtendedGuide, CommonParameter, and AssistRadio are just a few of our latest articles on this software.
Usually, adware looks legitimate and offers useful features. However, these functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all. Keep in mind that operational features alone do not prove a software's legitimacy or safety.
How did BasicDisplay install on my computer?
"Bundling" – the marketing tactic that involves packing regular program installers with unwanted/malicious additions – is used to proliferate adware.
Downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and treating installations with negligence (e.g., using "Easy/Express" settings, etc.) – increase the threat of bundled content infiltrating the system.
Additionally, intrusive ads spread advertising-supported software. When clicked on, some of these advertisements can execute scripts to perform sneaky downloads/installations.
Adware is also promoted on legitimate-looking download pages and scam websites. Most visitors access them via redirects caused by spam browser notifications, sites using rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, intrusive adverts, and installed adware (with the ability to force-open webpages).
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is important to research software and download it only from official/verified sources. We recommend approaching installation processes with caution, e.g., by reading terms, exploring available options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all additional apps, tools, extensions, features, etc.
We also advise vigilance while browsing since fake and malicious online content typically appears legitimate and innocuous. For example, intrusive ads may look harmless – yet redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, scam-promoting, adult dating, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such adverts/redirects, inspect the device and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with BasicDisplay, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once BasicDisplay adware's installation is over:
BasicDisplay 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 BasicDisplay?
- STEP 1. Remove BasicDisplay related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove BasicDisplay ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove BasicDisplay adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove BasicDisplay ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove BasicDisplay adware using Combo Cleaner:
BasicDisplay adware removal:
Remove BasicDisplay-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 can diminish the browsing experience and system performance. This software delivers advertisements that may promote content capable of causing system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, and other serious problems. Furthermore, adware is deemed to be a threat to user privacy since it typically possesses data-tracking abilities.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. In most cases, it operates by displaying ads on various interfaces. However, some adware types are also capable of generating redirects and gathering private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers profit primarily through affiliate programs by promoting various sites, products, services, and other content.
Will Combo Cleaner remove BasicDisplay adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your computer and eliminate detected adware-type applications. It is noteworthy that manual removal (performed without security programs) might not be a perfect solution. After the adware has been manually removed – various file remnants can stay hidden within the system. What is more, the remaining components may continue running and causing issues. Hence, it is paramount to eliminate advertising-supported software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
▼ Show Discussion