How to eliminate AccessibleOptimizer adware from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is AccessibleOptimizer?
While investigating new file submissions to the VirusTotal website, our researchers discovered the AccessibleOptimizer application. After analyzing this piece of software, we learned that it is adware from the AdLoad malware family. Advertising-supported software is designed to run intrusive advertisement campaigns.
AccessibleOptimizer adware overview
Adware operates by displaying third-party graphical content (e.g., banners, coupons, pop-ups, surveys, overlays, etc.) on various interfaces. Advertisements delivered by this software can endorse online scams, untrustworthy/harmful software, and even malware. Once clicked on, some intrusive ads can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
It is noteworthy that while genuine products or services may be encountered via these adverts – they are unlikely to be endorsed in this manner by any official parties. It is most probable that this promotion is undertaken by scammers who abuse the content's affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software may need certain conditions to deliver intrusive ad campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system or user geolocation, visits to specific websites, etc.). However, regardless of whether AccessibleOptimizer displays advertisements – it endangers device and user safety.
It is worth mentioning that AdLoad applications commonly have browser-hijacking abilities, although we did not observe these traits while testing the AccessibleOptimizer adware.
Software within this classification usually possesses data-tracking functionalities, and this might apply to AccessibleOptimizer.
Information of interest may include: visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, browser cookies, log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, finance-related data, and so forth. The collected information can be shared with or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).
In summary, the presence of software like AccessibleOptimizer on devices can lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by AccessibleOptimizer |
| 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
We have analyzed thousands of adware-type apps; TrustedBrowser, ValueInterface, and ProductivePlatform are merely a few examples.
Advertising-supported software usually appears legitimate and useful. It can also offer a wide variety of "handy" features, which are rarely operational. Adware typically promises these functionalities as bait to deceive users into downloading/installing.
Remember that even if an app or a browser extension operates as indicated by its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did AccessibleOptimizer install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled (packed together) with ordinary programs. The threat of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and by rushing through installations (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Furthermore, adware is promoted on legitimate-looking download pages and scam websites. Users primarily access these webpages via redirects caused by sites using rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, intrusive ads, spam browser notifications, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Intrusive advertisements proliferate advertising-supported software as well. Once clicked on, some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly advise researching software and downloading it only from official/verified sources. When installing, it is crucial to read terms, study possible options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all supplements (e.g., apps, extensions, tools, etc.).
Another recommendation is to be careful while browsing since fraudulent and malicious online content typically appears legitimate and harmless. For example, while intrusive ads may look innocuous – they redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, pornography, scam-promoting, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with advertisements and/or redirects, inspect the system and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with AccessibleOptimizer, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once AccessibleOptimizer adware's installation is over:
AccessibleOptimizer 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 AccessibleOptimizer?
- STEP 1. Remove AccessibleOptimizer related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove AccessibleOptimizer ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove AccessibleOptimizer adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove AccessibleOptimizer ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove AccessibleOptimizer adware using Combo Cleaner:
AccessibleOptimizer adware removal:
Remove AccessibleOptimizer-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 delivers ads promoting content that can cause severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). This software can decrease browsing quality and system performance. Adware is also considered a privacy threat, as it usually has data-tracking abilities.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It is designed to display advertisements on visited webpages or other interfaces. Additionally, some adware types can force-open sites and collect vulnerable data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers generate revenue by promoting various websites, apps, browser extensions, products, services, etc. Most of the profit is made through affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove AccessibleOptimizer adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your system and remove detected adware-type applications. Note that manual removal (unaided by security programs) might not be an ideal solution. In some cases, even after the adware has been manually removed – file leftovers can stay hidden within the system. What is more, the remnants can continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate advertising-supported software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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