Removing PartitionControl adware and the adverts it delivers
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is PartitionControl?
PartitionControl is a rogue application discovered by our researchers during a routine inspection of new submissions to VirusTotal. After investigating this software, we determined that it is adware. PartitionControl is part of the AdLoad malware family. Advertising-supported software (adware) is designed to generate revenue for its developers through advertising.
PartitionControl adware overview
Typically, adware operates by enabling the placement of ads (e.g., pop-ups, surveys, banners, overlays, etc.) on visited websites, desktops, or other interfaces.
Advertising-supported software might not work as designed if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, specific sites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. However, even if PartitionControl does not display adverts – the app's presence on a device threatens system safety and user privacy.
Adware-delivered advertisements can endorse online scams, unreliable/hazardous software, and malware. Some can even be triggered (by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform sneaky downloads/installations.
Keep in mind that any genuine products or services encountered through these ads are most likely promoted by scammers who abuse their affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
While AdLoad applications often exhibit browser-hijacking capabilities – we did not observe these qualities while testing PartitionControl.
Additionally, this rogue app might have data-tracking functionalities, as they are standard for adware. Software within this classification usually collects browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. This vulnerable data can be monetized via sale to third-parties.
In summary, the presence of advertising-supported software like PartitionControl on devices may result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by PartitionControl |
| 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
UpgradeConnection, ParameterNetwork, FilterSkill, FunctionGuide, and InterfaceSignal are just some examples of adware that we have analyzed recently.
Usually, advertising-supported software looks legitimate and innocuous. It can also offer a wide variety of "useful" features. However, these functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all.
It must be stressed that even if a piece of software operates exactly as indicated by its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did PartitionControl install on my computer?
Adware is proliferated using the bundling marketing technique, which involves packing regular program installers with unwanted/malicious additions.
Downloading from freeware and free file-hosting websites, P2P sharing networks, and other suspect sources – poses a threat of bundled content infiltrating the device. The risk is further compounded when users rush through installation processes (e.g., ignore terms, skip sections, use "Easy/Express" settings, etc.).
Adware can also have "official" promotional webpages, and it is pushed through scam sites. They are primarily accessed via redirects generated by intrusive ads, websites employing rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, mistyped URLs, and installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Advertising-supported software is spread by intrusive adverts as well. Once clicked on, some of these advertisements can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We recommend researching software prior to downloading or purchasing it. Additionally, all downloads must be performed from official and verified channels. When installing, it is essential to study terms and options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all supplementary apps, extensions, features, and so on.
We also advise being careful while browsing, as fraudulent and malicious online contact usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, intrusive ads may look innocuous – however, they redirect users to unreliable and questionable sites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such advertisements/redirects, check the device and immediately remove all dubious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with PartitionControl, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once PartitionControl adware's installation is over:
PartitionControl 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 PartitionControl?
- STEP 1. Remove PartitionControl related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove PartitionControl ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove PartitionControl adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove PartitionControl ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove PartitionControl adware using Combo Cleaner:
PartitionControl adware removal:
Remove PartitionControl-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?
The presence of adware on a device may decrease browsing quality and system performance. This software delivers advertisements promoting content potentially capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Adware typically has data-tracking functionalities – hence, it is deemed to be a threat to user privacy.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. Its purpose is to generate revenue for its developers/publishers through advertising. The software's primary functions can include displaying ads on various interfaces, force-opening websites, and collecting private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers profit primarily via affiliate programs by promoting various websites, software, products, services, and other content.
Will Combo Cleaner remove PartitionControl adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate all adware-type applications that have been installed. It is pertinent to mention that manual removal (unaided by security tools) might not be a perfect solution. In some instances, after the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – various remnants (files) stay hidden within the system. The remaining components may continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate adware and other unwanted software thoroughly.
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