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Removing PartitionControl adware and the adverts it delivers

Also Known As: Ads by PartitionControl
Type: Mac Virus
Damage level: Medium

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

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.

Threat Summary:
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.
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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.

Adware examples

UpgradeConnectionParameterNetworkFilterSkillFunctionGuide, 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:

Pop-up displayed once PartitionControl installation is complete

PartitionControl adware's installation folder:

PartitionControl adware install 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:

Video showing how to remove PartitionControl adware using Combo Cleaner:

PartitionControl adware removal:

Remove PartitionControl-related potentially unwanted applications from your "Applications" folder:

Manual removal of malicious Mac applications

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

Mac Go To Folder step

Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...

Mac removing related files and folders - step 1Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/LaunchAgents - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents/

Mac go to /Library/LaunchAgents - step 2

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.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 2Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/Application Support/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/Application Support - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/Application Support/

Mac go to /Library/Application Support - step 2

In the "Application Support" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, "MplayerX" or "NicePlayer", and move these folders to the Trash.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 3Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:

Mac go to ~/Library/LaunchAgents - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents/

Mac go to ~/Library/LaunchAgents - step 2

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.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 4Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/LaunchDaemons - step 1

In the "Go to Folder..." bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons/

Mac go to /Library/LaunchDaemons - step 2

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.

Mac removing malware related files and folders - step 5Scan 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.

Mac remove malware with Combo Cleaner - step 1

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.

Mac remove malware with Combo Cleaner - step 2

After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.

Remove malicious extensions from Internet browsers

Safari iconRemove malicious Safari extensions:

Removal of malicious extensions in Safari - step 1

Open the Safari browser, from the menu bar, select "Safari" and click "Preferences...".

Removal of malicious extensions in Safari - step 2

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.

Google Chrome logoRemove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Removal of malicious extensions in Google Chrome - step 1

Click the Chrome menu icon Google 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".

Removal of malicious extensions in Google Chrome - step 2

  • If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.

Mozilla Firefox logoRemove malicious extensions from Mozilla Firefox:

Removal of malicious extensions in Mozilla Firefox - step 1

Click the Firefox menu firefox menu icon (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".

Removal of malicious extensions in Mozilla Firefox - step 2

  • 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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About the author:

Tomas Meskauskas

Tomas Meskauskas - expert security researcher, professional malware analyst.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of over 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an author and editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest online security threats. Contact Tomas Meskauskas.

PCrisk security portal is brought by a company RCS LT. Joined forces of security researchers help educate computer users about the latest online security threats. More information about the company RCS LT.

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Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

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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.