Removal instructions for PrimaryBuffer adware and the adverts it displays
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What kind of application is PrimaryBuffer?
PrimaryBuffer is a rogue application that our research team discovered while investigating new submissions to VirusTotal. After examining this piece of software, we determined that it is adware belonging to be AdLoad malware family.
PrimaryBuffer adware overview
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. Its purpose is to feed users with advertisements. The software achieves this by displaying ads on visited webpages and/or other interfaces.
These adverts predominantly promote online scams, untrustworthy/harmful software, and potential malware. Some of the ads can even execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations upon being clicked.
It must be mentioned that any genuine products or services encountered via these adverts – are most likely endorsed by scammers who abuse their affiliate programs in order to acquire illegitimate commissions.
Advertising-supported software might require specific conditions to run intrusive ad campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system or user geolocation, visits to particular websites, etc.). However, even if PrimaryBuffer does not deliver advertisements – its presence on a system remains a threat.
AdLoad adware often includes browser hijacker functionalities, but we did not observe any while investigating this application. PrimaryBuffer likely gathers private information.
Advertising-supported software usually collects the following data: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. This sensitive information can then be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
In summary, the presence of software like PrimaryBuffer on devices may result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by PrimaryBuffer |
| 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), 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
DefaultWindow, LauncherIndex, ExpandedBrowser, and InterfaceHelper are just some examples of adware-type apps that we have analyzed recently.
Software within this classification typically appears legitimate and offers a broad range of features. However, the functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all. Keep in mind that even if an application operates as indicated by its promotional material – that is not a guarantee of either legitimacy or safety.
How did PrimaryBuffer install on my computer?
The bundling marketing tactic – packing ordinary program installation setups with unwanted/malicious additions – is commonly used to distribute adware.
The risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from untrustworthy sources (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and by treating installation processes with the negligence (e.g., ignoring terms, skipping sections, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Additionally, adware can have "official" promotional pages, and it is endorsed on scam websites. Most visitors access such webpages via redirects caused by sites employing rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with the ability to force-open browsers).
Intrusive adverts also proliferate advertising-supported software. When clicked on, some of these advertisements are capable of executing scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent.
How to avoid installation of adware?
It is essential to research software and download it from official/verified channels. We recommend treating installation processes with caution, e.g., by reading terms, inspecting possible options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of additional apps, extensions, tools, etc.
We also advise being vigilant while browsing since fraudulent and malicious online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, despite their innocuous appearance – intrusive ads redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, adult dating, pornography, scam-promoting, etc.).
Should you keep experiencing adverts and/or redirects of this kind, check the device and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with PrimaryBuffer, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once PrimaryBuffer adware's installation is over:
PrimaryBuffer 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 PrimaryBuffer?
- STEP 1. Remove PrimaryBuffer related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove PrimaryBuffer ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove PrimaryBuffer adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove PrimaryBuffer ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove PrimaryBuffer adware using Combo Cleaner:
PrimaryBuffer adware removal:
Remove PrimaryBuffer-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 may decrease browsing quality and system performance. It displays ads that endorse content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Furthermore, the software usually has data-tracking functionalities – therefore, it is classed as a privacy threat.
What does adware do?
Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It enables the placement of various ads on visited sites and/or other interfaces. Some types can also generate redirects and collect vulnerable data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers profit mainly through affiliate programs by promoting websites, apps, browser extensions, products, services, etc.
Will Combo Cleaner remove PrimaryBuffer adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your computer and eliminate detected adware-type applications. It is noteworthy that manual removal (unaided by security software) might not be a perfect solution. In some instances, even after the advertising-supported software has been manually removed – file leftovers stay hidden within the system. What is more, the remnants may continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, it is crucial to eliminate adware thoroughly.
Outstanding!
▼ Show Discussion