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How to eliminate the ProgramSource adware-type app from your Mac

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

What kind of application is ProgramSource?

Our research team discovered an app named ProgramSource during a routine investigation of new submissions to VirusTotal. After analyzing this application, we determined that it is adware from the AdLoad malware family. ProgramSource operates by running intrusive advertisement campaigns.

ProgramSource adware

ProgramSource adware overview

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It typically displays third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, banners, coupons, overlays, etc.) on visited websites and/or other interfaces.

These advertisements can promote various scams, untrustworthy/harmful software, and malware. Some intrusive ads can even be triggered (by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform stealthy downloads/installations.

Note that while legitimate products or services may be encountered through these adverts – they are unlikely to be endorsed in this manner by any official parties. This endorsement is most likely undertaken by scammers motivated to obtain illegitimate commissions by abusing the promoted content's affiliate programs.

Certain conditions may be necessary for adware to deliver intrusive advert campaigns (e.g., compatible browser/system or user geolocation, visits to specific websites, etc.). However, regardless of whether ProgramSource displays ads – its presence on a system threatens device and user safety.

We have found many AdLoad adware-type apps with browser-hijacking capabilities in the past – but we did not observe these qualities during our analysis of ProgramSource.

Advertising-supported software usually collects private information, and ProgramSource might have such data-tracking functionalities as well. Targeted information may include: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, finance-related data, etc. This vulnerable information can be monetized via sale to third-parties.

To summarize, software like ProgramSource may cause system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by ProgramSource
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.
▼ 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

Cyclostomatous, LobeliaJirin.appBc20App_updater, and IntegerDrivePrivacy are just some of our newest articles on adware.

Applications and browser extensions within this classification usually appear legitimate and innocuous. They can also offer a broad range of useful and advantageous functions. However, these features seldom work as promised, and in most cases – they do not work at all.

Keep in mind that even if a piece of software operates exactly as indicated by its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.

How did ProgramSource install on my computer?

Adware can be bundled (packed together) with ordinary programs. Download from untrustworthy channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and rushed installations (e.g., skipped steps, used "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.) – increase the risk of unintentionally allowing bundled content into the device.

Some intrusive advertisements can execute scripts to perform sneaky downloads/installations upon being clicked. These ads are also used to proliferate advertising-supported software.

Additionally, adware is promoted on legitimate-looking download webpages and scam sites. These pages are most commonly accessed via redirects generated by misspelled URLs, websites utilizing rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, intrusive adverts, and installed adware (with the ability to force-open webpages).

How to avoid installation of adware?

It is essential to research software and download it only from official/verified sources. We recommend treating installation processes with caution, e.g., by reading terms, studying available options, using the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opting out of all additional apps, extensions, tools, etc.

We also advise being careful while browsing since fake and malicious online content typically appears genuine and innocuous. For example, intrusive advertisements may look harmless – yet redirect users to unreliable and dubious websites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, pornography, adult dating, etc.).

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

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

Pop-up displayed once ProgramSource installation is complete

ProgramSource adware's installation folder:

ProgramSource 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 ProgramSource adware using Combo Cleaner:

ProgramSource adware removal:

Remove ProgramSource-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 diminish the browsing experience and system performance. Significant threats can be posed by the content endorsed via adware-delivered advertisements (e.g., system infections, privacy issues, financial losses, etc.). Additionally, this software is considered a privacy threat since it typically has data-tracking abilities.

What does adware do?

Adware is designed to generate revenue through advertising. The software's primary functions can include displaying ads on various interfaces, force-opening sites, and gathering private data.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers profit primarily through affiliate programs by promoting content (e.g., websites, products, services, etc.).

Will Combo Cleaner remove ProgramSource adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate all adware-type apps present. It must be mentioned that manual removal (performed without security tools) might not be a perfect solution. After the adware has been manually removed – file leftovers can remain hidden within the system. Furthermore, these remnants might continue to run and cause problems. Hence, 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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