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Removal instructions for CoordinatorOptimization adware

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

What is CoordinatorOptimization?

Our researchers found the CoordinatorOptimization application during a routine investigation of new submissions to VirusTotal. After analyzing this piece of software, we determined that it operates as adware.

In other words, CoordinatorOptimization runs intrusive advertisement campaigns and may have additional abilities as well. It is pertinent to mention that this rogue app is part of the AdLoad malware family.

CoordinatorOptimization adware

CoordinatorOptimization adware overview

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It displays ads on visited websites and/or other interfaces. The advertisements endorse unreliable/harmful webpages and software, online scams, and malware. Some intrusive adverts can perform stealthy downloads/installations - when clicked on.

It has to be mentioned that any legitimate products encountered via these advertisements are highly unlikely to be endorsed in this fashion by their developers. Instead, this endorsement is undertaken by scammers abusing the products' affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.

Note that if the browser/system specs or user geolocation are incompatible, visits to particular sites are not made, or other conditions are unsuitable - adware might not display ads. However, regardless of whether CoordinatorOptimization works as intended - its presence endangers device and user safety.

Advertising-supported software that belongs to the AdLoad group - often has browser hijacker and data tracking functionalities. When we tested CoordinatorOptimization, it did not display any browser-hijacking qualities. However, it likely does collect private information.

Adware typically gathers browsing and search engine histories, personally identifiable details, usernames/passwords, credit card numbers, and so forth. The collected data can then be shared with and/or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).

To summarize, the presence of software like CoordinatorOptimization on devices can result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by CoordinatorOptimization
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names Avast (MacOS:Agent-TX [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Adware.MAC.AdloadTR.1012), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.G), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Search), 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

SurplusStatusSmartRecordOutlookWade, and VictorSurge are merely some examples of apps within the adware classification. This software typically looks legitimate and offers various functions. However, these features rarely work as promised, and in most cases - they are utterly nonoperational.

How did CoordinatorOptimization install on my computer?

Bundling - packing ordinary program installers with unwanted/malicious supplements - is used to distribute adware. Download from untrustworthy channels (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushed installations increase the risk of allowing bundled content into the system.

Fake Adobe Flash Player updaters/installers are used in adware distribution as well. Additionally, some intrusive advertisements can make stealthy downloads/installations upon being clicked.

Advertising-supported software is also promoted on dubious download webpages and scam sites. Users typically access such webpages via redirects caused by mistyped URLs, websites using rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).

How to avoid installation of adware?

We strongly recommend researching and downloading it from official/verified sources. Furthermore, when installing, it is important to read terms, explore available options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt-out of all additional apps, tools, features, etc.

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

In case of encounters with such advertisements/redirects, check the device and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with CoordinatorOptimization, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.

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

Pop-up displayed once CoordinatorOptimization installation is complete

CoordinatorOptimization adware's installation folder:

CoordinatorOptimization 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 CoordinatorOptimization adware using Combo Cleaner:

CoordinatorOptimization adware removal:

Remove CoordinatorOptimization-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. This software is also considered to be a privacy threat, as it usually has data tracking functionalities. Furthermore, adware-delivered ads can be harmful and cause severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.).

What does adware do?

Adware is designed to enable the placement of various advertisements on visited websites and/or other interfaces. Additionally, some types can force-open sites and gather private data.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers generate profit primarily through affiliate programs by endorsing various websites, apps, products, services, etc.

Will Combo Cleaner remove CoordinatorOptimization adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner is capable of scanning computers and eliminating the adware-type applications present. It is pertinent to mention that manual removal (unaided by security software) might not be a perfect solution. In some instances, even after the adware has been (manually) removed - various components (files) can stay within the system. What is more, such remnants may continue running and causing problems. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate advertising-supported software 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.

QR Code
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