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Removal instructions for the Pipidae adware-type application

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

What kind of application is Pipidae?

Pipidae is a rogue application that our research team discovered during a routine inspection of new submissions to the VirusTotal website. Upon investigation, we determined that it is adware belonging to the Pirrit adware family. This piece of software is designed to run intrusive advertisement campaigns. Pipidae may display ads and have other harmful capabilities.

Pipidae adware

Pipidae adware overview

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It enables the placement of third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, overlays, coupons, banners, etc.) on visited websites and/or other interfaces.

It is noteworthy that software within this classification might not deliver intrusive ad campaigns if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, specific sites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. Yet even if Pipidae does not display adverts – its presence on a system endangers device/user safety.

Advertising-supported software delivers advertisements promoting online scams, untrustworthy/harmful software, and even malware. When clicked on, some of the ads can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.

Note that while legitimate content may be encountered via these adverts – it is unlikely to be endorsed by any official parties. It is most probable that this promotion is undertaken by scammers abusing the products' affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.

We have found apps from the Pirrit family with browser-hijacking capabilities. However, we did not observe these functionalities while testing Pipidae.

Furthermore, adware usually has data-tracking abilities, and this might apply to the Pipidae application. Targeted information may include: URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. The gathered data can then be shared with and/or sold to third-parties.

To summarize, the presence of software like Pipidae on devices can lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by Pipidae
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names Avast (MacOS:Pirrit-CB [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Adware.MAC.Generic.27866), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Pirrit.BM), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Pirrit.ac), Full List (VirusTotal)
Additional Information This application belongs to the Pirrit adware 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.

Adware examples

WouldLatestPlatformProductProduceSelect, and DefaultProgram are merely some examples of adware we have investigated recently.

Advertising-supported software typically looks legitimate and innocuous. It can also offer a broad range of "useful" functionalities, which are rarely operational. Keep in mind that even if a piece of software operates as indicated by its promotional material – that is not a guarantee of either legitimacy or safety.

How did Pipidae install on my computer?

Adware can be bundled with regular programs. The risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).

Intrusive advertisements proliferate adware as well. Some of the ads can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform downloads/installations without user consent.

Furthermore, advertising-supported software can be promoted on legitimate-looking download and deceptive/scam sites. Most users access these pages via redirects caused by websites utilizing rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, mistyped URLs, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).

How to avoid installation of adware?

It is important to always research software prior to downloading or purchasing it. Additionally, all downloads must be performed from official and verified sources. Installation processes must be treated with caution, e.g., by reading terms, inspecting possible options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, tools, etc.

We also advise being vigilant when browsing since fraudulent and dangerous online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, intrusive advertisements may look innocuous – however, they redirect to highly questionable sites (e.g., gambling, scam-promoting, pornography, adult dating, etc.).

If you keep encountering ads and/or redirects of this kind, inspect the system and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with Pipidae, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.

Screenshot of the pop-up window displayed when Pipidae adware is present on the system:

Pop-up alerting of Pipidae adware's presence on the system

Text presented in this pop-up:

"Pipidae" will damage your computer. You should move it to the Trash.


This file was downloaded on an unknown date.


[Move to Trash]
[Cancel]

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 adware and browser hijackers from a Mac computer:

Pipidae adware removal:

Remove Pipidae-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 can diminish the browsing experience and system performance. It displays adverts that promote content capable of causing system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, and other serious problems. What is more, advertising-supported software is deemed to be a privacy threat, as it usually has data-tracking functionalities.

What does adware do?

Adware runs intrusive advertisement campaigns. Primary functions can include displaying ads on visited webpages and/or other interfaces, generating redirects, and gathering sensitive information.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers profit mainly through affiliate programs by promoting various websites, software, products, services, and other content.

Will Combo Cleaner remove Pipidae adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan computers and eliminate installed adware-type applications. Keep in mind that manual removal (performed without security software) might not be a perfect solution. In some instances, even after the software has been manually removed – various file leftovers stay hidden within the system. Additionally, the remnants can continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate adware thoroughly.

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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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Removal Instructions in other languages
Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

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

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