How to eliminate the MotionOptimizer adware-type application from your Mac
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is MotionOptimizer?
We discovered the MotionOptimizer application during a routine investigation of new submissions to the VirusTotal site. Our analysis revealed that this app is advertising-supported software (adware) and that it belongs to the AdLoad malware family.
MotionOptimizer adware overview
Adware is designed to generate revenue for its developers by feeding users with undesirable and deceptive advertisements. This third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, overlays, coupons, surveys, banners, etc.) is displayed on visited sites and/or different interfaces.
It must be mentioned that advertising-supported software might not deliver adverts if the browser/system is incompatible, specific websites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable. However, regardless of whether MotionOptimizer displays ads – its presence on a system remains a threat.
Adware-delivered advertisements mainly promote online scams, unreliable/harmful software, and even malware. Some of these adverts can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform stealthy downloads/installations.
Note that while legitimate products and services may be encountered via these ads – they are highly unlikely to be endorsed in this manner by any official parties. It is most probable that this endorsement is undertaken by scammers who abuse the continent's affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.
AdLoad family applications commonly have browser-hijacking qualities; however, MotionOptimizer did not exhibit these traits during testing.
Additionally, MotionOptimizer likely has data-tracking functionalities. Adware typically targets the following information: browsing and search engine histories, IP addresses, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc. The collected data can then be monetized through sale to third-parties.
In summary, the presence of advertising-supported software like MotionOptimizer on devices may lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by MotionOptimizer |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-DH [Adw]), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.H), Fortinet (Adware/Synataeb!OSX), 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), 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 examined numerous adware-type applications; VantageGains, ZestyPeak, LookupLauncher – are just a couple of examples.
Advertising-supported software usually appears legitimate and offers a wide variety of functionalities. However, these functions are rarely operational. It is worth noting that even if a piece of software operates as promised – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did MotionOptimizer install on my computer?
Adware is proliferated using the bundling marketing tactic – packing ordinary program installation setups with unwanted/malicious additions.
The risk of unintentionally allowing bundled content into the device is increased by downloading from untrustworthy sources (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and by treating installation processes with negligence (e.g., skipping steps, using "Quick/Easy" settings, etc.).
Additionally, adware is promoted on seemingly "official" download webpages and scam sites. Most visitors to these pages access them via redirects caused by websites utilizing rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
Intrusive advertisements also spread advertising-supported software. Once clicked on, some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly recommend researching software prior to downloading or purchasing it. Furthermore, all downloads must be performed from official and verified channels. When installing, it is important to read terms, explore possible options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all supplements (e.g., apps, extensions, features, tools, etc.).
Another recommendation is to be vigilant when browsing since fake and dangerous online content usually appears genuine and harmless. For example, intrusive ads may look innocuous – yet they redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, adult dating, pornography, etc.).
Should you keep encountering such adverts/redirects, inspect the device and immediately remove all dubious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with MotionOptimizer, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once MotionOptimizer adware's installation is over:
MotionOptimizer 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
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Quick menu:
- What is MotionOptimizer?
- STEP 1. Remove MotionOptimizer related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove MotionOptimizer ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove MotionOptimizer adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove MotionOptimizer ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove MotionOptimizer adware using Combo Cleaner:
MotionOptimizer adware removal:
Remove MotionOptimizer-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-delivered advertisements endorse content capable of causing system infections, financial losses, and other severe issues. The presence of this software on a device may decrease browsing quality and system performance. Advertising-supported software is also considered to be a threat to user privacy, as it usually has data-tracking abilities.
What does adware do?
Adware is designed to run intrusive ad campaigns. Primary functions can include displaying adverts on various interfaces, force-opening websites, and collecting private information.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Most of the profit comes from affiliate programs. Adware developers may earn commission from ad clicks, site visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove MotionOptimizer adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner is capable of scanning computers and eliminating all the adware-type applications present. It must be mentioned that manual removal (performed without the aid of security programs) might not be a perfect solution. Since even after the adware has been manually removed – various remnants (files) can stay hidden within the system. What is more, the remaining components might continue to run and cause problems. Therefore, advertising-supported software must be eliminated thoroughly.
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