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How to remove OptionSatellite from your computer

Also Known As: Ads by OptionSatellite
Type: Mac Virus
Damage level: Medium

What kind of application is OptionSatellite?

Upon examining the OptionSatellite app, it became clear that it is an adware-type application that can infiltrate devices and inundate users with unwanted advertisements. This intrusive software may compromise the online experience by displaying incessant ads, leading to potential security risks and a slowdown in the device's performance.

OptionSatellite adware

OptionSatellite adware in detail

OptionSatellite, functioning as adware, can display a wide range of advertisements, creating a disruptive and frustrating online experience for users. These ads often come in various forms, including pop-ups, banners, and interstitial ads. They can appear when browsing websites and (or) using applications.

OptionSatellite's ads can lead users to various web pages. Some ads may direct users to legitimate websites, such as e-commerce platforms or news outlets. However, the concerning aspect is that adware like OptionSatellite can also redirect users to malicious or deceptive sites.

These can include phishing websites attempting to steal sensitive information, fraudulent pages encouraging users to make fake purchases, or websites hosting malware that can infect devices. Furthermore, adware can expose users to deceptive schemes, such as fake tech support pages claiming computer issues that don't exist or misleading lottery pages promising unrealistic prizes.

OptionSatellite may also collect various data from users without their consent. This can include browsing history, search queries, and the websites users visit. Additionally, it might gather passwords, usernames, credit card details, telephone numbers, and other information.

It raises significant privacy concerns, as users may not be aware of this data harvesting and the potential for their personal information to be shared with third parties.

Additionally, OptionSatellite may be functioning as a browser hijacker. Browser hijacking involves unauthorized modifications to a user's web browser settings, potentially leading to a compromised browsing experience. Such software can alter critical settings, including the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page, redirecting users to specific websites or search engines.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by OptionSatellite
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-DH [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Adload.23), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.H), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Searchproxy.f), 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.
▼ Download Combo Cleaner for Mac
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.

Conclusion

In conclusion, OptionSatellite embodies the characteristics of adware that can significantly disrupt a user's online experience. It inundates users with intrusive and unwanted advertisements, potentially compromises their privacy through data collection, and even performs browser hijacking, redirecting users to unfamiliar and potentially harmful websites.

Adware like OptionSatellite not only hampers the user's browsing experience but also raises security concerns. Thus, it should be removed from affected computer as soon as possible.

Examples of similar programs are ProgressFunction, RenewingImprove, and CyberSpaceLogin.

How did OptionSatellite install on my computer?

Unwanted software often manages to infiltrate users' computer systems through a variety of channels. A common method involves software bundling, where individuals who download and install software from the internet might not always be aware of the presence of additional applications bundled within the installation package.

Another pathway through which undesired applications make their way onto users' computers entails misleading advertisements or fake download links on websites. Moreover, deceptive emails and manipulative social engineering techniques can convince users to download and install these unwanted and potentially malicious applications.

How to avoid installation of unwanted applications?

Obtain software and applications exclusively from reputable sources like the Apple App Store or the official website of the software in question. Before downloading any software, consider conducting online research to check for user reviews and feedback.

During the software installation process, opt for custom or advanced installation settings instead of the default ones whenever possible, as this can offer more control and help prevent unwanted installations. Avoid interacting with pop-up advertisements or windows that claim your computer is compromised or infected.

In addition, maintain the up-to-date status of your operating system and all applications. Alongside this, regularly perform comprehensive system scans using trustworthy antivirus or anti-malware software to detect and eliminate suspicious apps. If your computer is already infected with OptionSatellite, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.

The window that appears after the installation of OptionSatellite:

OptionSatellite adware pop-up displayed once installation is done

OptionSatellite's installation folder:

OptionSatellite adware 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:

Video showing how to remove OptionSatellite adware using Combo Cleaner:

OptionSatellite adware removal:

Remove OptionSatellite-related potentially unwanted applications from your "Applications" folder:

Manual removal of malicious Mac applications

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

Mac Go To Folder step

Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...

Mac removing related files and folders - step 1Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/LaunchAgents - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents/

Mac go to /Library/LaunchAgents - step 2

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.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 2Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/Application Support/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/Application Support - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/Application Support/

Mac go to /Library/Application Support - step 2

In the "Application Support" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, "MplayerX" or "NicePlayer", and move these folders to the Trash.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 3Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:

Mac go to ~/Library/LaunchAgents - step 1

In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents/

Mac go to ~/Library/LaunchAgents - step 2

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.

Mac removing related files and folders - step 4Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons/ folder:

Mac go to /Library/LaunchDaemons - step 1

In the "Go to Folder..." bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons/

Mac go to /Library/LaunchDaemons - step 2

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.

Mac removing malware related files and folders - step 5Scan 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.

Mac remove malware with Combo Cleaner - step 1

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.

Mac remove malware with Combo Cleaner - step 2

After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.

Remove malicious extensions from Internet browsers

Safari iconRemove malicious Safari extensions:

Removal of malicious extensions in Safari - step 1

Open the Safari browser, from the menu bar, select "Safari" and click "Preferences...".

Removal of malicious extensions in Safari - step 2

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.

Google Chrome logoRemove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Removal of malicious extensions in Google Chrome - step 1

Click the Chrome menu icon Google 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".

Removal of malicious extensions in Google Chrome - step 2

  • If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.

Mozilla Firefox logoRemove malicious extensions from Mozilla Firefox:

Removal of malicious extensions in Mozilla Firefox - step 1

Click the Firefox menu firefox menu icon (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".

Removal of malicious extensions in Mozilla Firefox - step 2

  • 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 disrupts the user's online experience by bombarding them with intrusive advertisements, intruding on their privacy through data collection, causing a decline in computer performance, and exposing users to security risks, including potentially harmful websites and fraudulent activities.

What does adware do?

The core purpose of adware is to showcase advertisements to users. Furthermore, it may collect data regarding users' online behaviors and manipulate web browser settings (hijack browsers).

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers typically generate revenue by promoting various products, websites or services. Most of money is generated via affiliate programs.

Will Combo Cleaner remove OptionSatellite adware?

Developers of adware generally generate income by promoting various products, websites, services, and the like. A substantial share of their profits is derived from involvement in affiliate programs, through which they earn commissions when users make payments for specific products or services or engage in other actions, such as creating online accounts.

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About the author:

Tomas Meskauskas

Tomas Meskauskas - expert security researcher, professional malware analyst.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of over 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an author and editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest online security threats. Contact Tomas Meskauskas.

PCrisk security portal is brought by a company RCS LT. Joined forces of security researchers help educate computer users about the latest online security threats. More information about the company RCS LT.

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Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

QR Code
Ads by OptionSatellite QR code
Scan this QR code to have an easy access removal guide of Ads by OptionSatellite on your mobile device.
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