Unharmonious.app Adware: Threat Analysis and Removal Guide

Unharmonious.app, discovered in recent submissions to the VirusTotal platform, has been identified as advertising-supported software (adware) affiliated with the Pirrit malware family. This adware is designed to conduct intrusive advertisement campaigns, posing potential risks to affected users.

Unharmonious.app Adware Overview

Adware functions by displaying ads on various interfaces, including visited websites and desktops. The ads typically promote online scams, untrustworthy software, and even malware. Clicking on these ads may trigger scripts that lead to stealthy downloads and installations.

While genuine products/services may occasionally be advertised, they are unlikely to be endorsed by official parties in this manner. More often, scammers utilize adware to exploit affiliate programs and gain illegitimate commissions.

Even if Unharmonious.app doesn’t deliver ads, it remains a threat to device and user safety. While some instances of Pirrit adware exhibit browser-hijacking abilities, this feature was not observed during the analysis of Unharmonious.app.

This adware likely engages in data tracking, a common practice in this category of software. Information collected may include browsing history, search engine queries, cookies, usernames, passwords, and credit card details. This data can be shared or sold to third parties.

In summary, the presence of Unharmonious.app on devices may lead to system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.

Removal Guide

Step 1: Identify and Uninstall Suspicious Applications

1. Go to “Applications” in Finder.
2. Identify any suspicious applications, especially those recently installed or unfamiliar.
3. Right-click and choose “Move to Trash.”

Step 2: Remove Unharmonious.app from Web Browsers

Safari:

1. Open Safari.
2. Go to “Safari” > “Preferences.”
3. Click on the “Extensions” tab.
4. Find and uninstall any Unharmonious.app related extensions.

Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome.
2. Type “chrome://extensions/” in the address bar.
3. Locate and delete Unharmonious.app-related extensions.

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Firefox.
2. Type “about:addons” in the address bar.
3. Remove Unharmonious.app related extensions.

Step 3: Clear Browser Data

1. In each browser, navigate to settings and find the option to clear browsing data.
2. Select “Cookies,” “Cached Images,” and other site data.
3. Click “Clear” or “Delete.”

Step 4: Check System Preferences

1. Open “System Preferences” on your Mac.
2. Navigate to “Profiles” and remove any suspicious profiles.

Step 5: Run a Security Software Scan

Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware tool to perform a full system scan and remove any remaining traces of Unharmonious.app.

Best Practices for Prevention

1. Be cautious with downloads: Only download software from official websites.
2. Keep software updated: Regularly update your operating system and applications.
3. Use reliable security software: Install and update reputable antivirus or anti-malware software.
4. Exercise caution online: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or ads.
5. Stay informed: Keep abreast of the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices.

By following these steps, users can effectively remove Unharmonious.app and reduce the risk of encountering similar threats in the future.