Removal instructions for the PracticalEntry adware
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is PracticalEntry?
PracticalEntry is a rogue application discovered by our research team during a routine inspection of file submissions to VirusTotal. This app is advertising-supported software (adware), which is part of the AdLoad malware family. Adware is designed to generate revenue for its developers/publishers through advertising.
PracticalEntry adware overview
Typically, adware displays third-party graphical content (e.g., overlays, coupons, banners, pop-ups, etc.) on visited websites, desktops, or other interfaces. However, this is more than a mere annoyance, as these advertisements can promote deceptive and malicious content.
Adware-delivered ads commonly endorse online scams, untrustworthy/harmful software, and even malware. Once clicked on, some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent.
Keep in mind that any genuine content encountered via these advertisements is most likely promoted by scammers who abuse its affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software may require certain conditions to operate as intended (e.g., compatible browser/system specs, visits to particular sites, etc.). Regardless of whether PracticalEntry displays ads – the app remains a threat to device/user safety.
We have found many instances of AdLoad applications functioning as browser hijackers – however, PracticalEntry did not exhibit such traits during testing.
Furthermore, adware usually collects sensitive user information, and PracticalEntry might have such a data-tracking functionality. Targeted information include: visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, finance-related data, and so on. This vulnerable information can be monetized through sale to third-parties.
In summary, software like PracticalEntry is associated with system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by PracticalEntry |
| 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
AppRecognition, SectionDesign, AppSection, and InitialInfo are merely some examples of adware we have investigated recently. Software within this category rarely appears suspicious – it tends to look ordinary and innocuous.
Adware typically offers various handy features as well. However, these functionalities seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they are completely nonoperational. Remember that even if a piece of software works exactly as indicated by its promotional material – that is not a guarantee of legitimacy or safety.
How did PracticalEntry install on my computer?
Adware is proliferated using the bundling marketing method, which involves packing regular program installation setups with unwanted/malicious additions.
These setups can be downloaded from freeware and free file-hosting sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, and other dubious channels. The risk of unintentionally allowing this content into the system is furthered by rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, skipping steps, using "Easy/Express" settings, etc.).
Adware can also have "official" promotional webpages, and it is endorsed on scam websites. Users mainly access these pages via redirects caused by intrusive ads, sites utilizing rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, mistyped URLs, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
Additionally, advertising-supported software is spread by intrusive advertisements. Some of the adverts can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to carry out sneaky downloads/installations.
How to avoid installation of adware?
Exercising caution is crucial to device safety. Therefore, research software before downloading/purchasing. Download only from official and trustworthy sources. When installing, read terms, explore available options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all additional apps, extensions, features, etc.
Furthermore, be careful while browsing since fake and dangerous online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, despite their innocuous appearance – intrusive ads redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with such adverts/redirects, check the device and immediately remove all suspect applications on browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with PracticalEntry, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once PracticalEntry adware's installation is over:
PracticalEntry 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 PracticalEntry?
- STEP 1. Remove PracticalEntry related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove PracticalEntry ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove PracticalEntry adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove PracticalEntry ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove PracticalEntry adware using Combo Cleaner:
PracticalEntry adware removal:
Remove PracticalEntry-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?
Having adware installed on a device can decrease browsing quality and system performance. Advertising-supported software displays advertisements promoting content that may cause severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Adware typically has data-tracking functionalities – hence, it is considered to be a threat to user privacy.
What does adware do?
Adware operates by placing third-party graphical content (advertisements) on various interfaces. Additionally, it may be capable of force-opening sites and gathering private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers generate revenue by promoting various websites, apps, extensions, products, services, and other content. Most of the profit comes from affiliate programs.
Will Combo Cleaner remove PracticalEntry adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan systems and eliminate detected adware-type applications. It must be mentioned that manual removal (performed without security programs) might not be an ideal solution. In some cases, after the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – various remnants (files) stay hidden within the system. What is more, the remaining components might continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate adware and other unwanted software thoroughly.
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