FacebookTwitterLinkedIn

Removing AllocateType adware from the operating system

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

What is AllocateType?

While inspecting new submissions to VirusTotal, our research team came upon an application named AllocateType. After analyzing it, we learned that it is an adware-type app belonging to the AdLoad malware family.

AllocateType adware

AllocateType adware overview

Adware operates by displaying advertisements on visited websites and/or different interfaces. These ads diminish the browsing experience and promote untrustworthy/dangerous content. They can push various online scams (phishing, tech support, lottery, etc.), dubious/harmful software (adware, browser hijackers, PUAs, etc.), and even malware. Some intrusive adverts can be triggered (by being clicked) to perform downloads/installations without user consent.

It is pertinent to mention that any genuine products/services encountered through these ads are most likely promoted by scammers who abuse their affiliate programs in order to acquire illegitimate commissions.

Advertising-supported software may need specific conditions to run intrusive advertisement campaigns, e.g., compatible browser/system specs or user geolocation, visits to particular sites, etc. However, even if AllocateType does not display advertisements - its presence on a system threatens device and user safety regardless.

AdLoad adware often has browser hijacker traits; although AllocateType did not exhibit any during testing - it might on other systems.

Furthermore, this piece of rogue software likely collects private data. Advertising-supported software typically targets browsing and search engine histories, personally identifiable details, account credentials (usernames/passwords), credit card numbers, etc. The gathered information can be shared with and/or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).

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

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by AllocateType
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names Avast (MacOS:Adload-AG [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Adware.MAC.AdloadTR.1138), 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 inspected thousands of adware samples; WiredBlankNetSearchPanel, and InformationLeader are but a few of our newest finds. Advertising-supported software seldom appears suspicious, it tends to look ordinary and useful. It also offers a wide variety of features, which are usually nonoperational.

How did AllocateType install on my computer?

Bundling - packing ordinary program installers with unwanted/malicious additions - is used to spread adware. By downloading from untrustworthy sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushing installation processes (e.g., using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.) - users risk allowing bundled content into their devices.

Furthermore, intrusive advertisements proliferate adware. When clicked on, some of the ads can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations. Fake Adobe Flash Player updaters/installers are used in distribution as well.

Advertising-supported software can also have "official" promotional sites, and it is pushed through online scams. Most users enter webpages of this kind via redirects caused by mistyped URLs, websites that use rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with the ability to force-open pages).

How to avoid installation of adware?

We highly recommend researching software prior to download/installation and/or purchase. Additionally, all downloads must be done from official and verified channels. When installing, it is essential to read terms, study available options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt-out of all supplements.

Another recommendation is to exercise caution when browsing since fraudulent and malicious material typically appears harmless. For example, intrusive adverts may look legitimate yet redirect to unreliable/questionable websites (e.g., gambling, adult-dating, pornography, etc.).

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

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

Pop-up displayed once AllocateType installation is complete

AllocateType adware's installation folder:

AllocateType 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 AllocateType adware using Combo Cleaner:

AllocateType adware removal:

Remove AllocateType-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 delivers ads that promote deceptive/malicious content, which can cause system infections, financial losses, and other severe issues. This software is also considered to be a threat to user privacy, as it usually has data tracking abilities.

What does adware do?

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. Its primary function is to display ads on various interfaces. Additionally, this software may be capable of force-opening webpages and collecting private data.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Most of the profit comes from affiliate programs in the form of commissions for promoting various websites, applications, products, services, and so on.

Will Combo Cleaner remove AllocateType adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan systems and eliminate detected adware-type applications. Note that manual removal (performed without the aid of security software) might not be a perfect solution. Since even after the adware has been manually removed - various components (files) can remain hidden within the system. Furthermore, these remnants may continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, it is essential 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.

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 AllocateType QR code
Scan this QR code to have an easy access removal guide of Ads by AllocateType 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.