How to Get Rid of Adware on Mac? How to Completely Remove Malicious Ads from Browsers?

This guide explains how to effectively remove adware from your Mac, addressing both annoying and potentially dangerous aspects. Malicious adware can lead to intrusive ads, system slowdowns, crashes, and even data theft. This comprehensive approach covers manual removal and the use of specialized software.

What is Mac Adware?

Adware is software displaying unwanted advertisements. While some is benign, much is malicious, operating without your consent and potentially collecting your data. It can infiltrate your system through various means, including email attachments, infected links, malicious browser extensions, and bundled software. It manifests as banners, pop-ups, toolbars, and extensions within browsers and applications.

Identifying Adware on Your Mac

Pinpointing adware requires vigilance. While there's no single definitive test, several warning signs indicate a potential infection:

• Performance Issues: Slowdowns, freezes, or crashes.
• Intrusive Ads: Excessive pop-ups, banners, and notifications.
• Browser Hijacking: Unexpected redirects and homepage changes.
• Unauthorized Extensions: New browser extensions you didn't install.
• Automatic App Installations: Unexpected software appearing on your system.
• Search Engine Changes: Your default search engine altered without your knowledge.

Manual Adware Removal Steps

These steps detail manual adware removal. Note that this process requires technical understanding and may not eliminate all instances of adware.

1. Remove Suspicious Apps: Locate and delete any unfamiliar applications from your Applications folder.

   

2. Delete Malicious Profiles: Remove unwanted configuration profiles from System Settings > Privacy & Security > Profiles.

   

3. Delete .plist Files: Remove potentially malicious .plist files from these locations using Finder's "Go to Folder" function: ~/Library/LaunchAgents, /Library/LaunchAgents, ~/Library/Application Support, and /Library/LaunchDaemons.

   

4. Remove Login Items: Delete unwanted login items from System Settings > General > Login Items.

   

5. Delete Unwanted Network Proxies: Disable any unwanted network proxies in System Settings > Network.

   

6. Remove Adware Extensions from Browsers: Uninstall suspicious extensions from Safari, Chrome, Firefox, and Opera (instructions provided for each browser).

   

7. Reset Homepage and Search Engine Settings: Restore your preferred homepage and search engine settings in each browser. (Instructions provided for each browser).

   

8. Use Adware Removal Software: Consider using dedicated adware removal software for a more thorough and automated cleanup. Popular options include MacKeeper, Bitdefender, Malwarebytes, Intego Internet Security, and Avast One.

Reclaiming Your Mac's Security

While manual removal is possible, adware removal tools offer a more efficient solution. They automate the detection and removal process, ensuring comprehensive cleaning and future protection. Consider using a reputable security suite for ongoing protection against adware and other malware threats.

The above is the detailed content of How to Get Rid of Adware on Mac? How to Completely Remove Malicious Ads from Browsers?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!