How to eliminate ValueIndexer adware from the operating system
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is ValueIndexer?
ValueIndexer is a rogue application discovered by our researchers during a routine inspection of new file submissions to the VirusTotal website.
We have determined that this app is adware (advertising-supported software) belonging to the AdLoad malware family. ValueIndexer is designed to feed users with undesirable and potentially malicious advertisements.
ValueIndexer adware overview
Typically, adware displays third-party graphical content (ads) on visited websites, desktops, or other interfaces. In addition to interfering with the browsing experience (e.g., overlaying webpage content), these advertisements can promote deceptive/malicious sites and software. Stealthy downloads/installations are another concern, as some of the adverts can carry them out upon being clicked.
It is worth mentioning that while legitimate products/services may be encountered via these advertisements – they are unlikely to be endorsed in this manner by any official parties. It is most probable that this endorsement is undertaken by scammers motivated to acquire illegitimate commissions by abusing the promoted content's affiliate programs.
Specific conditions may be necessary for advertising-supported software to operate as intended (e.g., compatible browser/system or user geolocation, visits to particular sites, etc.). However, even if ValueIndexer does not deliver ads – it remains a threat to device/user safety.
AdLoad apps commonly possess browser-hijacking abilities, although we did not observe these qualities during our analysis of the ValueIndexer application.
What is more, adware usually has data-tracking functionalities, and this might apply to ValueIndexer. Targeted information may include: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so forth. This vulnerable data can then be shared with or sold to third-parties.
In summary, the presence of software like ValueIndexer on devices may lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.
| Name | Ads by ValueIndexer |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Rload.4), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.C), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h), 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 numerous adware samples; ToolboxKey, ExplorePartition, and EssentialProject are merely a few of our newest finds.
Software within this classification usually appears legitimate and offers various functionalities. However, it rarely operates as promised since its features tend to serve the purpose of bait that tricks users into downloading/installing the adware.
Remember that even if an application or a browser extension works as indicated by its promotional material – that alone does not prove legitimacy or safety.
How did ValueIndexer install on my computer?
Adware can have "official" promotional webpages, and it is pushed through scam sites. Users primarily access these pages via redirects generated by mistyped URLs, websites that employ rogue advertising networks, intrusive ads, spam browser notifications, and installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Advertising-supported software can also be bundled with (packed alongside) ordinary programs. Downloading from untrustworthy channels (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and rushing through installation processes (e.g., skipping steps, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.) – increase the threat of bundled content infiltrating the system.
Additionally, adware is proliferated by intrusive adverts. Once clicked on, some of the advertisements can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is essential to research software prior to downloading/purchasing. We recommend downloading only from official and verified sources. When installing, we advise reading terms, studying available options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplements (e.g., apps, tools, extensions, etc.).
Another recommendation is to be vigilant while browsing, as fraudulent and dangerous online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, despite their innocuous appearance – intrusive advertisements redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, scam-promoting, pornography, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such ads/redirects, inspect the device and immediately remove all dubious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with ValueIndexer, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once ValueIndexer adware's installation is over:
ValueIndexer 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 ValueIndexer?
- STEP 1. Remove ValueIndexer related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove ValueIndexer ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove ValueIndexer adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove ValueIndexer ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove ValueIndexer adware using Combo Cleaner:
ValueIndexer adware removal:
Remove ValueIndexer-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 can decrease browsing quality and system performance. This software displays advertisements endorsing content that may cause severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Adware usually collects sensitive information – therefore, it is considered to be a threat to user privacy.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It is designed to run intrusive advert campaigns. The software's primary functions can include displaying ads on various interfaces, force-opening webpages, and collecting private data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue by promoting various websites, software, products, services, and other content. The majority of the profit comes from affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove ValueIndexer adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate all adware-type applications that are present. Note that manual removal (unaided by security tools) might not be ideal. In some instances, file remnants stay hidden within the system after the adware has been manually removed. What is more, these components might continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate adware and other unwanted software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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