How to remove SectionDesign adware and the advertisements it displays
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is SectionDesign?
Our research team found SectionDesign while reviewing new file submissions to the VirusTotal site. After investigating this application, we determined that it is advertising-supported software (adware). SectionDesign is part of the AdLoad malware family.
SectionDesign adware overview
Adware is designed to run intrusive advertisement campaigns. Typically, it displays third-party graphical content (ads) on visited websites or different interfaces.
Advertising-supported software might not operate as intended if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, specific sites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. However, whether SectionDesign display adverts is irrelevant, as it threatens device/user safety regardless.
Adware-delivered advertisements can promote various scams, untrustworthy/hazardous software, and malware. Some intrusive ads can even execute scripts to perform sneaky downloads/installations upon being clicked.
It is noteworthy that any genuine content encountered via these adverts is most likely endorsed by scammers abusing its affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
While AdLoad applications often have browser-hijacking abilities, SectionDesign did not exhibit these traits during our analysis.
Advertising-supported software usually possesses data-tracking functionalities, and this might be true of the SectionDesign app. Adware can seek browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. This sensitive information can be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
To summarize, the presence of software like SectionDesign on devices may result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by SectionDesign |
| 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 the 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
AppSection, InitialInfo, and OriginalAssist are just a few of our latest articles on adware-type applications. Software within this category appears legitimate and offers useful functionalities. However, these functions seldom work as advertised, and in most cases – they do not work at all.
It must be stressed that even if an app or browser extension operates as promised – that is not irrefutable proof of legitimacy or safety.
How did SectionDesign install on my computer?
Adware is endorsed on legitimate-looking promotional webpages and scam sites. Most visitors access these pages through redirects caused by intrusive ads, websites employing rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, misspelled URLs, and installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
Advertising-supported software can also be bundled with (packed alongside) ordinary programs. Bundled installation setups can be downloaded from freeware and free file-hosting sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, and other dubious channels. The risk of inadvertently allowing this content into the system is furthered by being inattentive when installing programs (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Quick/Easy" settings, etc.).
Intrusive advertisements spread adware as well. When clicked on, some of these adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We recommend researching software before downloading or purchasing. It is important to always download from official and verified sources. When installing, we advise reading terms, exploring possible options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, tools, and so forth.
It is essential to be vigilant while browsing, as the Internet is rife with fraudulent and malicious content. This deceptive and dangerous material is typically disguised as legitimate and innocuous. For example, despite their harmless appearance – intrusive ads redirect to questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, pornography, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such adverts/redirects, check the system and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with SectionDesign, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once SectionDesign adware's installation is over:
SectionDesign 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 SectionDesign?
- STEP 1. Remove SectionDesign related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove SectionDesign ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove SectionDesign adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove SectionDesign ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove SectionDesign adware using Combo Cleaner:
SectionDesign adware removal:
Remove SectionDesign-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-displayed advertisements promote content that may cause serious problems (e.g., system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, etc.). The software's presence on a device can decrease browsing quality and system performance. Advertising-supported software usually has data-tracking abilities – therefore, it is considered a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware displays advertisements on visited websites, desktops, or other interfaces. Some types can also force-open webpages and collect sensitive information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers generate revenue primarily through affiliate programs by promoting content. They may earn commissions from ad clicks, website visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove SectionDesign adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan systems and eliminate all adware-type apps that are installed. Keep in mind that manual removal (performed without security programs) might be ineffective. After the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – various leftovers (files) can stay hidden within the system. What is more, these components might continue to run and cause issues. Hence, it is paramount to eliminate adware and other unwanted software thoroughly.
Outstanding!
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