In the realm of cyber threats targeting Mac systems, OriginalProcess stands out as a particularly insidious adversary. Disguised as a harmless application, this adware from the AdLoad malware family wreaks havoc on unsuspecting users’ devices by bombarding them with unwanted advertisements and compromising their privacy. In this article, we’ll delve into the workings of OriginalProcess adware, its detection names, potential consequences, and most importantly, how to effectively remove it from your Mac system.
Understanding OriginalProcess Adware
OriginalProcess operates under the guise of legitimate software, often luring users into downloading it unknowingly. Once installed, it begins its nefarious activities by inundating users with intrusive ads, pop-ups, and redirects to dubious websites. These advertisements not only degrade the user experience but also pose significant security risks to the affected system.
The consequences of an OriginalProcess infection can be dire. Apart from inundating users with unwanted advertisements, this adware may also track sensitive user data, including browsing history, login credentials, and even financial information. Moreover, it can lead to system slowdowns, browser hijacking, and increased vulnerability to further malware infections.
Detection Names and Similar Threats
Various antivirus programs detect OriginalProcess under different names, including MacOS:Adload-AG [Adw] by Avast, Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.AdLoad.13 by Combo Cleaner, and Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h by Kaspersky, among others. Similar threats in the AdLoad malware family include DominantSoftware, CompressModem, and ControlDivision, all of which exhibit similar adware behavior and pose comparable risks to users’ systems.
Removal Guide
Removing OriginalProcess adware from your Mac system requires thorough and systematic steps to ensure complete eradication. Follow these steps diligently:
- Manual Removal:
- Navigate to the Applications folder and locate the OriginalProcess application.
- Drag the application to the Trash.
- Empty the Trash to permanently delete the adware.
- Delete Browser Extensions:
- Launch your web browser.
- Go to the Extensions or Add-ons menu.
- Locate any suspicious extensions related to OriginalProcess or AdLoad.
- Remove these extensions from your browser.
- Clear Browser Data:
- In your browser settings, find the option to clear browsing data.
- Select cookies, cache, and browsing history.
- Clear this data to remove any traces of OriginalProcess activity.
- Reset Browser Settings: If necessary, reset your browser settings to default. This will undo any changes made by the adware to your browser configuration.
- Run System Scan: Use a reputable antivirus program to perform a full system scan. Ensure that the antivirus software is up-to-date with the latest virus definitions. Quarantine or delete any remaining traces of OriginalProcess detected by the scan.
Preventing Future Infections
To safeguard your Mac against similar threats in the future, consider implementing the following best practices:
- Exercise caution when downloading software from the internet. Only download from official and verified sources.
- Read user reviews and research software before installation to identify potential threats.
- Opt for custom installation settings to avoid bundled software and decline any additional offers.
- Keep your operating system and applications updated with the latest security patches.
- Install reputable antivirus software and regularly scan your system for malware.
- Be vigilant while browsing the web and avoid clicking on suspicious ads or links.
By adhering to these guidelines and staying proactive in your approach to cybersecurity, you can effectively mitigate the risks posed by adware like OriginalProcess and ensure the safety of your Mac system.
