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Removing WebCoordinator adware-type app and the ads it displays

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

What kind of application is WebCoordinator?

Our research team discovered the WebCoordinator application during a routine investigation of new submissions to the VirusTotal site. Upon examination, it became evident that WebCoordinator is adware from the AdLoad malware family. Advertising-supported software is designed to generate revenue through advertising.

WebCoordinator adware

WebCoordinator adware overview

Adware typically operates by displaying third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, overlays, banners, and other ads) on various interfaces, such as visited websites, desktops, etc.

These advertisements can endorse online scams, untrustworthy/hazardous software, and malware. Some can even execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations upon being clicked.

Keep in mind that any genuine products/services encountered through these adverts are most likely promoted by scammers who are seeking to acquire illegitimate commissions by abusing the endorsed content's affiliate programs.

Advertising-supported software might not work as intended if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, specific sites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. Regardless of whether WebCoordinator displays ads – it endangers device integrity and user privacy.

We have found many AdLoad applications with browser-hijacking capabilities in the past; however, WebCoordinator did not exhibit these qualities during our analysis.

Adware usually gathers sensitive information, and WebCoordinator may possess such data-tracking functionalities. Targeted information can include: visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, browser cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. This sensitive data can be monetized via sale to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).

To summarize, the presence of software like WebCoordinator on devices may result in system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by WebCoordinator
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names Avast (MacOS:Adload-AB [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Adload.17), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.H), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.g), 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.

Adware examples

AgentUpdaterSyncProgress, and DetailMatch are just a few examples of adware-type apps we have investigated recently. Advertising-supported software rarely appears illegitimate or otherwise suspicious; it tends to look ordinary and harmless.

Adware can also offer a broad range of useful and advantageous functionalities. However, these functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they are utterly nonoperational. Note that even if a piece of software works as indicated by its promotional material – that is not irrefutable proof of either legitimacy or safety.

How did WebCoordinator install on my computer?

The bundling marketing tactic, which involves packing regular program installers with unwanted/malicious supplements – is used to distribute adware. Downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.) – increase the risk of bundled content infiltrating the system.

Upon being clicked, some intrusive ads can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent. These advertisements are also used to proliferate adware.

Advertising-supported software can have "official" promotional pages, and it is pushed by scam websites. The majority of visitors to these webpages access them via redirects generated by sites employing rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).

How to avoid installation of adware?

It is important to research software prior to downloading or purchasing. All downloads must be made from official and verified sources. Installation processes have to be treated with caution by reading terms, exploring possible options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of all additions (e.g., apps, extensions, etc.).

We also advise being careful while browsing, as fake and dangerous online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, despite their innocuous appearance – intrusive adverts redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, pornography, adult dating, gambling, etc.).

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

Pop-up window displayed once WebCoordinator adware's installation is over:

Pop-up displayed once WebCoordinator installation is complete

WebCoordinator adware's installation folder:

WebCoordinator adware install 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 WebCoordinator adware using Combo Cleaner:

WebCoordinator adware removal:

Remove WebCoordinator-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 decrease browsing quality and system performance. It displays ads that may promote content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Furthermore, adware tends to have data-tracking functionalities – therefore, it is considered to be a threat to user privacy.

What does adware do?

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. Its primary functions can include displaying third-party graphical content (ads) on various interfaces, force-opening webpages, and collecting sensitive information.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware generates revenue primarily via affiliate programs by promoting various websites, applications, browser extensions, tools, products, services, and other content.

Will Combo Cleaner remove WebCoordinator adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your computer and eliminate all installed adware-type applications. It is pertinent to mention that manual removal (performed without security programs) might not be ideal. After the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – various file remnants can stay hidden within the system. These components may continue to run and cause issues. Hence, adware and other unwanted software must be eliminated 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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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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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.