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How to remove InitialPlatform adware-type app from your operating system

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

What kind of application is InitialPlatform?

We found the InitialPlatform adware-type application during a routine inspection of new submissions to the VirusTotal website. This piece of software is part of the AdLoad malware family. It is designed to display ads on various interfaces. InitialPlatform may also have other harmful capabilities.

InitialPlatform adware

InitialPlatform adware overview

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It operates by enabling the placement of adverts on visited websites and/or other interfaces.

This third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, banners, coupons, overlays, etc.) primarily promotes online scams, unreliable/hazardous software, and even malware. Once clicked on, some of the ads can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user consent.

It is noteworthy that any genuine content encountered via these advertisements is most likely endorsed by scammers who abuse its affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.

Software within this classification may need certain conditions to run intrusive ad campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system, visits to specific sites, etc.). However, even if InitialPlatform does not display adverts – this app remains a threat to device/user safety.

While AdLoad applications tend to have browser-hijacking functionalities, InitialPlatform did not exhibit them during our analysis.

Adware usually has data-tracking abilities, and this might be true of the InitialPlatform app. Information of interest can include: visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. The gathered data can then be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.

In summary, the presence of software like InitialPlatform on devices can lead to system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by InitialPlatform
Threat Type Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names Avast (MacOS:Adload-AG [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.AdLoad.13), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.H), 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), 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 investigated countless adware samples; GoldenLookerInterfaceBrowserHardwareRelevancy, and GeneralAccess are merely some of our newest finds.

Advertising-supported software usually appears legitimate and promises useful functions. However, these functionalities are typically fake and nonoperational. It must be emphasized that even if a piece of software works as detailed by its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.

How did InitialPlatform install on my computer?

Adware can be bundled (packed together) with ordinary programs. The risk of permitting bundled content access into devices is increased by downloading from dubious channels, e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, P2P sharing networks, and other third-party sources. The threat is also increased by rushing through installation processes, e.g., ignoring terms, skipping steps or sections, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.

Additionally, adware can have "official" promotional pages, and it is pushed through scam websites. Most visitors access these webpages via redirects caused by sites using rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening abilities).

Advertising-supported software is spread by intrusive adverts as well. When clicked on, some of the advertisements can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.

How to avoid installation of adware?

We highly recommend researching software before downloading or purchasing it. Furthermore, all downloads must be performed from official and verified sources.

We advise exercising caution when installing, e.g., by reading terms, studying available options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, features, etc.

Another recommendation is to be careful while browsing since fake and malicious online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. For example, despite their innocuous appearance – intrusive ads redirect to highly questionable sites (e.g., gambling, adult dating, pornography, etc.).

If you keep encountering such adverts and/or redirects, check the system and immediately remove all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with InitialPlatform, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.

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

Pop-up displayed once InitialPlatform installation is complete

InitialPlatform adware's installation folder:

InitialPlatform 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 InitialPlatform adware using Combo Cleaner:

InitialPlatform adware removal:

Remove InitialPlatform-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 decrease browsing quality and system performance. It delivers adverts that primarily promote content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Furthermore, this software usually has data-tracking functionalities – therefore, it is classed as a threat to user privacy.

What does adware do?

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It displays ads on various interfaces. Additionally, some adware types can force-open sites and collect vulnerable information.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers generate revenue predominantly via affiliate programs by endorsing various websites, apps, extensions, products, services, and other content.

Will Combo Cleaner remove InitialPlatform adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your system and eliminate all adware-type apps installed. Note that manual removal (unaided by security programs) might not be ideal. In some cases, even after the adware has been manually removed – file leftovers stay hidden within the system. Furthermore, the remaining components can continue to run and cause issues. 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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Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

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