FacebookTwitterLinkedIn

How to remove the SectionAssist adware from your operating system?

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

What is SectionAssist?

SectionAssist is a rogue application categorized as adware, and it also has browser hijacker qualities. It operates by running intrusive advertisement campaigns and promotes fake search engines through modifications to browser settings.

Additionally, adware and browser hijackers typically have data tracking abilities. Since most users download/install SectionAssist inadvertently, it is classified as a PUA (Potentially Unwanted Application). It has been observed being proliferated via fake Adobe Flash Player updates.

SectionAssist adware detections on VirusTotal

SectionAssist adware in detail

Adware can deliver pop-ups, surveys, coupons, banners, and other intrusive advertisements. This third-graphical content can be displayed on any visited website and/or different interfaces. The ads seriously diminish the browsing experience by overlaying webpage content and slowing down the browsing speed.

Intrusive advertisements are misleading, untrustworthy, and may even be malicious. They endorse various sale-oriented, unreliable, rogue, deceptive/scam, and even dangerous sites. What is more, some of these adverts can be triggered (by being clicked) to stealthily download/install software (e.g., PUAs).

Browser hijackers assign fake web searcher addresses as browsers' default search engine, new tab/window, and homepage URLs. Therefore, new browser tabs/windows opened and search queries typed into the URL bar - redirect to the promoted search engine's address.

Fraudulent web searchers are seldom able to generate search results, so they tend to redirect to (or cause redirection chains ending with) Google, Bing, Yahoo, and other legitimate search engines. Recovering a browser is impossible without removing the software affecting it, since browser hijackers can undo user-made changes and/or deny access to the browser settings outright.

Most PUAs (adware and browser hijackers included) can track data. They record browsing activity (URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, etc.) and collect vulnerable data extracted from it (IP addresses/ geolocations, personally identifiable details, etc.). The gathered data is then shared with and/or sold to third-parties.

In summary, the presence of unwanted apps on devices can lead to system infections, financial losses, severe privacy issues, and even identity theft. To ensure device and user safety, it is crucial to eliminate all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins immediately upon detection.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by SectionAssist
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names (.system) ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/TrojanDownloader.Adloa), Ikarus (Trojan-Downloader.OSX.Adload), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Cimpli.m), Sophos (OSX/Dwnldr-AASO), Full List (VirusTotal)
Detection Names (.service) Avast (MacOS:Adload-AM [Trj]), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/TrojanDownloader.Adload.), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Cimpli.m), Sophos (OSX/Dwnldr-AASO), 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), fake Flash Player installers, 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 in general

AccessibleEngineSearchSwitcherGuardMultiplySearchAccessDefault, and FlexibleSearch are some examples of adware. This software typically appears legitimate and harmless, and offers a wide variety of "handy" functionalities. However, the promised features are seldom operational.

In fact, most PUAs lure users into download/installation with fake functions. The sole purpose of unwanted apps is to generate profit for the developers; hence, functionality and user safety are irrelevant. PUAs are designed to run intrusive advert campaigns, cause redirects, hijack browsers, and gather private and sensitive information.

How did SectionAssist install on my computer?

PUAs can be downloaded/installed together with other software. This false marketing method of packing regular products with unwanted or malicious additions - is named "bundling". Rushed downloads/installations (e.g., skipped steps, used "Easy/Express" settings, etc.) increase the risk of allowing bundled content into the device.

Intrusive ads are also used to proliferate PUAs. Once clicked on, the advertisements can execute scripts to download/install these applications without user consent. Some PUAs may have "official" promotional sites from which they can be downloaded and/or purchased.

How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?

It is recommended to research software prior to download/installation. Additionally, all downloads must be performed from official and verified sources. Untrustworthy download channels, e.g., unofficial and freeware sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, and other third-party downloaders - commonly offer harmful and bundled content.

When downloading/installing, it is advised to read terms, explore possible options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt-out from additional apps, tools, features, etc. Intrusive adverts appear legitimate; however, they redirect to highly dubious websites (e.g., gambling, pornography, adult-dating, and so forth).

In case of encounters with such advertisements and/or redirects, the system must be checked and all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins - removed without delay. If your computer is already infected with SectionAssist, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.

Pop-up window displayed when SectionAssist adware is present on the system:

Pop-up displayed when SectionAssist adware is installed onto the device

Text presented in this pop-up:

"SectionAssistd" will damage your computer.


This file was downloaded on an unknown date.

 

OK
Show in Finder

Delusive installer (fake Flash Player updater) promoting SectionAssist adware;

First installation step:

Delusive installer used to promote SectionAssist adware (step 1)

Second installation step:

Delusive installer used to promote SectionAssist adware (step 2)

Files related to the SectionAssist adware that need to be removed:

  • ~/Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/Services/com.SectionAssist.service.app
  • ~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.SectionAssist.service.plist
  • /Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/System/com.SectionAssist.system
  • /Library/LaunchDaemons/com.SectionAssist.system.plist

IMPORTANT NOTE! In some cases malicious applications like SectionAssist alter system proxy settings, thereby causing unwanted redirects to a variety of questionable websites.

The redirects are likely to remain even after removing the application itself. Thus, you'll have to restore them manually.

Step 1: Click on the gear icon in the Dock to navigate to the system settings. If the icon is not present in the Dock, you can find it in the Launchpad.

Changing proxy settings - navigate to the system settings

Step 2: Navigate to the Network settings.

Changing proxy settings - navigate to the network settings

Step 3: Select the connected network and click "Advanced...".

Changing proxy settings - select the connected network and click Advanced...

Step 4: Click on the "Proxies" tab and untick all the protocols. You should also set the settings of each protocol to default - "*.local, 169.254/16".

Changing proxy settings - untick all the options and set their settings to default

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 SectionAssist adware using Combo Cleaner:

SectionAssist adware removal:

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

mac browser hijacker removal from 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

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.

▼ Show Discussion

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.

Our malware removal guides are free. However, if you want to support us you can send us a donation.

About PCrisk

PCrisk is a cyber security portal, informing Internet users about the latest digital threats. Our content is provided by security experts and professional malware researchers. Read more about us.

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.

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

Get rid of Mac malware infections today:

▼ REMOVE IT NOW
Download Combo Cleaner for Mac

Platform: macOS

Editors' Rating for Combo Cleaner:
Editors ratingOutstanding!

[Back to Top]

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.