Removal instructions for the ArchiveOperation adware
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What is ArchiveOperation?
ArchiveOperation is an application that we discovered while reviewing new submissions to VirusTotal. After analyzing this app, we learned that it is adware belonging to the AdLoad malware family.
ArchiveOperation adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It displays ads (e.g., pop-ups, banners, coupons, surveys, etc.) on various interfaces, such as visited websites, desktops, and others.
These advertisements endorse online scams, unreliable/harmful software, and even malware. Some intrusive adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent. Note that any genuine content encountered via these ads is most likely endorsed by scammers abusing its affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
It is pertinent to mention that adware might not deliver advertisements if certain conditions are unsuitable (e.g., incompatible browser/system specs, particular sites not visited, etc.). However, even if ArchiveOperation does not display adverts – its presence endangers device and user safety.
AdLoad apps often have browser-hijacking traits, and this might apply to ArchiveOperation, although we did not observe such qualities during testing.
Furthermore, this rogue application likely has data-tracking abilities. Information of interest may include: browsing and search engine histories, personally identifiable details, account log-in credentials, finance-related data, and so forth. The collected information can be shared with and/or sold to third-parties.
To summarize, the presence of advertising-supported software like ArchiveOperation on devices can result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by ArchiveOperation |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.AdLoad.8), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.C), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h), 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. |
Adware examples
We have analyzed thousands of adware-type apps; ExpandedList, GlossGlamor, AdvancedProduct – are merely a few examples.
Advertising-supported software typically appears harmless and offers handy functions. However, it seldom works as promised, and in most cases – the features are utterly nonoperational. Even if adware operates as indicated by its promotional material – that is not proof of its legitimacy or safety.
How did ArchiveOperation install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled (packed together) with ordinary programs. Downloading from dubious sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushing through installation processes – increase the risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the device.
Intrusive advertisements distribute adware as well. Once clicked on, some of these ads can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent. Fake Adobe Flash Player updaters/installers are also used in proliferation.
Furthermore, advertising-supported software can have "official" promotional webpages, and it is pushed by scam sites. Most users enter these pages via redirects caused by misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, websites using rogue advertising networks, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly recommend researching software and downloading it only from official/verified channels. Installation processes must be approached with caution, e.g., by reading terms, exploring available options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of supplementary apps, tools, extensions, etc.
We advise being careful while browsing since fake and malicious content typically appears harmless. For example, intrusive ads may look legitimate yet redirect to highly questionable sites (e.g., pornography, adult-dating, gambling, etc.).
In case of encounters with such advertisements/redirects, check the device and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with ArchiveOperation, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once ArchiveOperation adware's installation is over:
ArchiveOperation adware's installation 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:
- What is ArchiveOperation?
- STEP 1. Remove ArchiveOperation related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove ArchiveOperation ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove ArchiveOperation adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove ArchiveOperation ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove ArchiveOperation adware using Combo Cleaner:
ArchiveOperation adware removal:
Remove ArchiveOperation-related potentially unwanted applications from your "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
Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...
Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents/
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.
Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/Application Support/ folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/Application Support/
In the "Application Support" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, "MplayerX" or "NicePlayer", and move these folders to the Trash.
Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents/
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.
Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons/ folder:
In the "Go to Folder..." bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons/
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.
Scan 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.
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.
After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.
Remove malicious extensions from Internet browsers
Remove malicious Safari extensions:
Open the Safari browser, from the menu bar, select "Safari" and click "Preferences...".
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.
Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
Click the 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".
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.
Remove malicious extensions from Mozilla Firefox:
Click the Firefox menu 
(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".
- 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. It typically has data-tracking functionalities – hence, this software is categorized as a privacy threat. Additionally, it delivers advertisements promoting dangerous content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.).
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It operates by running intrusive ad campaigns, i.e., enabling the placement of advertisements on various interfaces. This software might also be capable of force-opening webpages and collecting private data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers generate revenue mainly via affiliate programs by endorsing various websites, apps, products, services, and other content.
Will Combo Cleaner remove ArchiveOperation adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate detected adware-type applications. It is noteworthy that manual removal (unaided by security software) might not be ideal. In some instances, even after the adware has been manually removed – file leftovers remain hidden within the system. Furthermore, the remnants can continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, advertising-supported software must be eliminated thoroughly.
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