OverallVariety Adware

Adware has been a persistent threat to computer users for years, and OverallVariety is the latest addition to the infamous AdLoad malware family. This ad-supported software infiltrates macOS devices, displaying intrusive advertisements, promoting shady online services, and potentially exposing users to cybersecurity risks.

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What is OverallVariety Adware?

OverallVariety is an adware-type application identified by cybersecurity researchers while analyzing new malware submissions to VirusTotal. It belongs to the AdLoad malware family, a group of Mac threats that specialize in injecting unwanted ads, redirecting users to dubious websites, and tracking browsing activity.

While adware may seem like a mere nuisance, its presence on your system can lead to serious privacy risks, financial losses, and even identity theft.

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Threat Summary Table

Attribute	Details
Name	OverallVariety
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.G), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h)
Malware Family	AdLoad
Symptoms	Slow system performance, unwanted pop-ups, redirects to dubious websites
Distribution Methods	Deceptive pop-up ads, free software bundling, torrent file downloads
Potential Damage	Privacy breaches, unauthorized data collection, unwanted ads, exposure to scams and malicious websites

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How Does OverallVariety Adware Work?

Once installed, OverallVariety functions as advertising-supported software, running intrusive ad campaigns on the infected Mac. The primary methods by which this adware operates include:

Displaying Intrusive Advertisements

• OverallVariety injects unwanted pop-ups, banners, and in-text ads into web pages, disrupting your browsing experience.
• Some of these ads may contain malicious scripts, which execute downloads or redirect users to fraudulent sites when clicked.

Promoting Untrustworthy Software and Online Scams

• Many of the advertisements pushed by OverallVariety promote fake software updates, tech support scams, or phishing sites.
• Users may unknowingly install more malware or hand over personal data to cybercriminals.

Potential Browser Hijacking

• While not observed in this specific variant, many AdLoad adware applications modify browser settings, forcing users to visit suspicious search engines.
• These hijacked search engines may collect user data, inject ads into search results, and redirect users to affiliate websites for monetization.

Data Collection and Privacy Risks

• OverallVariety may have data-tracking capabilities, monitoring browsing history, search queries, login credentials, and even sensitive financial information.
• This collected data can be sold to third parties, putting victims at risk of targeted scams and identity theft.

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How Did OverallVariety Get on My Mac?

Adware like OverallVariety usually infiltrates macOS systems through deceptive distribution techniques, including:

Software Bundling

• Many users unknowingly install adware when downloading free applications from unofficial websites.
• Some installers bundle malware with legitimate software, hiding the adware under “Advanced” or “Custom” installation options.

Fake Software Updates

• Malicious websites may trick users into downloading fake Flash Player or macOS updates, which contain adware or other threats.

Torrent Files and Cracked Software

• Downloading software from pirate sites and torrents increases the risk of installing adware, malware, and trojans.

Malicious Advertisements

• Clicking on suspicious pop-ups or banner ads can trigger adware downloads.

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How to Remove OverallVariety from Your Mac (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Remove OverallVariety from Applications

1. Click on Finder and go to Applications.
2. Look for any suspicious apps (such as OverallVariety or unknown software you don’t remember installing).
3. Drag the suspicious apps to the Trash and empty it.

Step 2: Remove Suspicious Login Items

1. Open System Settings and go to Users & Groups.
2. Click on your user profile and navigate to Login Items.
3. Identify and remove any suspicious startup entries.

Step 3: Delete Malicious Profiles (if present)

1. Open System Settings and go to Privacy & Security > Profiles.
2. If you see any unknown profiles, select them and click “-” to remove.

Step 4: Reset Browsers to Default Settings

Safari:

1. Open Safari and go to Settings > Extensions.
2. Look for any suspicious extensions and uninstall them.
3. Reset Safari by going to Advanced > Show Develop menu and selecting Empty Caches.
4. Clear browser history and cookies.

Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome and go to Settings > Extensions.
2. Remove unknown or suspicious extensions.
3. Reset Chrome by navigating to Settings > Reset and clean up.

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Firefox and go to Add-ons > Extensions.
2. Remove any unwanted extensions.
3. Reset Firefox by navigating to Help > Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox.

Step 5: Scan Your Mac with Anti-Malware Software

Using a reputable anti-malware program like SpyHunter can help detect and remove remaining threats.

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How to Prevent Adware Infections on Mac

To avoid future adware infections like OverallVariety, follow these cybersecurity best practices:

Avoid Downloading Software from Unofficial Sources

• Only install apps from the Mac App Store or trusted developers.
• Be cautious of free software download sites, as they often bundle adware.

Use a Reliable Antivirus Program

• Regularly scan your Mac for adware, spyware, and malware.
• Enable real-time protection to prevent new threats.

Do Not Click on Suspicious Ads or Pop-Ups

• Avoid clicking on fake update messages or “Your Mac is infected!” alerts.
• Use ad-blockers to reduce exposure to malicious advertisements.

Always Choose “Custom” or “Advanced” Installation

• When installing software, select Custom installation to spot and disable unwanted bundled programs.

Keep macOS and Applications Updated

• Regular updates fix security vulnerabilities, reducing the chances of malware infections.

Enable Mac’s Built-in Security Features

• Use Gatekeeper and XProtect to block unverified apps from running.

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Conclusion

OverallVariety adware is a serious threat to Mac users, causing unwanted ads, privacy risks, and possible exposure to scams. If your Mac is infected, follow the removal guide above to eliminate the adware and take preventive measures to avoid future infections.

By practicing safe browsing habits, avoiding suspicious downloads, and using security tools, you can protect your Mac from adware like OverallVariety and other malware threats.