FacebookTwitterLinkedIn

How to remove CompellingEntry adware and the advertisements it displays

Also Known As: Ads CompellingEntry
Type: Mac Virus
Damage level: Medium

What is CompellingEntry?

Our research team found the CompellingEntry application during a routine inspection of new submissions to VirusTotal. After analyzing this piece of software, we determined that CompellingEntry is adware that belongs to the AdLoad malware family.

CompellingEntry adware

CompellingEntry adware overview

Adware may require certain conditions to run intrusive advertisement campaigns. For example, this software might not display ads if the browser/system or user geolocation is incompatible, specific websites are not visited, or similar. However, regardless of whether CompellingEntry delivers adverts or not - its presence on a system endangers device and user safety.

Adware-displayed advertisements endorse online scams, unreliable/hazardous websites and software, and even malware. Additionally, some intrusive ads can execute scripts to make stealthy downloads/installations upon being clicked.

Note that any legitimate products encountered via these adverts are unlikely to be endorsed by their actual developers. Instead, this promotion is undertaken by scammers abusing the products' affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.

Furthermore, CompellingEntry might have browser hijacker functionalities as they are common for AdLoad adware - however, we did not observe any during testing.

What is more, CompellingEntry is likely capable of collecting private data. Advertising-supported software usually gathers browsing-related information, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, financial/banking data, etc. The collected information can then be shared with and/or sold to third-parties.

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

Threat Summary:
Name Ads CompellingEntry
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names Avast (MacOS:Adload-AG [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.AdLoad.13), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.G), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.j), 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 examples

We have analyzed thousands of adware-type apps; ElementForceBasicTransaction, and DynamicLush are merely a couple of examples. Advertising-supported software typically appears legitimate and offers "handy" functions. However, these features rarely work as promised, and in most cases - they are utterly nonfunctional.

How did CompellingEntry install on my computer?

Adware is spread using "bundling" - packing ordinary program installers with unwanted/malicious supplements. Download from dubious channels (e.g., unofficial and free file-hosting sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and rushed installations increase the risk of allowing bundled content into the device.

Additionally, fake Adobe Flash Player updaters/installers are used in distribution. Intrusive advertisements are used to proliferate advertising-supported software as well. When clicked on, some of these ads can execute scripts to make downloads/installations without user consent.

Adware is also endorsed through "official" download webpages and scam sites. Users typically enter websites of this kind via redirects caused by spam browser notifications, mistyped URLs, sites using rogue advertising networks, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with webpage force-opening capabilities).

How to avoid installation of adware?

We highly recommend researching software and downloading only from official and verified channels. Additionally, installation processes must be approached with caution. Hence, it is essential to read terms, study possible options, use the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opt-out of all additional apps, tools, etc.

We advise being vigilant when browsing since illegitimate and malicious content usually appears innocuous. For example, intrusive advertisements look harmless yet redirect to unreliable/questionable websites (e.g., adult-dating, pornography, gambling, etc.).

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

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

Pop-up displayed once CompellingEntry installation is complete

CompellingEntry adware's installation folder:

CompellingEntry 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 CompellingEntry adware using Combo Cleaner:

CompellingEntry adware removal:

Remove CompellingEntry-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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What harm can adware cause?

Adware endangers device integrity and user safety. This software can decrease browsing quality and system performance. Additionally, it usually has data tracking functionalities, which make it a threat to user privacy. Adware-delivered advertisements can be deceptive/malicious and cause severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.).

What does adware do?

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It is designed to display adverts on visited websites and/or other interfaces. Some types can also force-open sites and gather private information.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers profit primarily through affiliate programs by promoting content, e.g., sites, apps, products, services, etc.

Will Combo Cleaner remove CompellingEntry adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate detected adware-type applications. It must be mentioned that manual removal (unaided by security software) might not be an ideal solution. Since in some cases, even after the adware itself has been (manually) removed - various remnants (files) are left behind in the system. What is more, these components may continue running and causing problems. Therefore, it is crucial to eliminate advertising-supported software thoroughly.

▼ 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.

Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

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

QR Code
Ads CompellingEntry QR code
Scan this QR code to have an easy access removal guide of Ads CompellingEntry 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.