CommonBoost is an adware application that poses a significant risk to Mac users. This intrusive program floods users with deceptive advertisements that lead to phishing websites, scams, and potentially harmful software downloads. Additionally, CommonBoost can track user activities, collecting sensitive data that can be misused for identity theft and other malicious activities. Security researchers have identified CommonBoost as part of the Adload malware family, and it has been flagged by multiple antivirus vendors.
Threat Summary
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Name | Ads by CommonBoost |
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) |
Symptoms | System slowdown, intrusive pop-up ads, browser redirections to dubious sites |
Damage | Privacy invasion through browser tracking, personal data theft, exposure to scams, installation of additional malware |
Distribution Methods | Deceptive pop-up ads, software bundling, torrent downloads |
Danger Level | High |
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CommonBoost Adware in Detail
Once installed, CommonBoost bombards users with a high volume of intrusive and misleading advertisements. These include pop-ups, banners, coupons, and in-text ads, which can redirect users to scam websites, phishing pages, and other harmful online platforms.
Risks Associated with CommonBoost
- Exposure to Phishing Sites: Users may be tricked into entering sensitive data, such as login credentials and financial details, on fraudulent websites that mimic legitimate platforms.
- Technical Support and Giveaway Scams: The ads may claim that the user’s system is infected and prompt them to call fake tech support or participate in fraudulent giveaways.
- Forced Software Downloads: Clicking on these ads may lead to automatic downloads of other malicious programs, potentially compromising the system further.
- Data Harvesting: CommonBoost can collect personal information, including browsing history, search queries, and login credentials, which can then be sold to third parties.
- System Performance Issues: The adware consumes system resources, causing a noticeable slowdown in performance.
- Browser Hijacking: CommonBoost may alter browser settings, redirecting searches to unfamiliar search engines and preventing users from restoring their preferred configurations.
How to Remove CommonBoost Adware from Mac
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Step 1: Remove Suspicious Applications Manually
- Click on the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
- Go to Users & Groups and choose your user profile.
- Click on the Login Items tab and look for unknown or suspicious applications.
- Select the unwanted application and click on the minus (-) button to remove it.
- Open Finder and navigate to the Applications folder.
- Locate CommonBoost or any unfamiliar apps, then drag them to Trash.
Step 2: Delete Malicious Browser Extensions
Safari
- Open Safari and go to Preferences.
- Select the Extensions tab and look for any suspicious extensions.
- Click Uninstall next to any unwanted extension.
Google Chrome
- Open Chrome and type
chrome://extensions/
in the address bar. - Look for unfamiliar extensions and click Remove.
Mozilla Firefox
- Open Firefox and go to Add-ons.
- Click on Extensions and remove any suspicious ones.
Step 3: Scan and Remove Adware Using SpyHunter
- Download SpyHunter.
- Install the software and launch it.
- Click on Start Scan Now to begin scanning your system.
- Once the scan is complete, click on Remove Selected Items.
- Restart your Mac to complete the removal process.
Preventing Future Infections
To prevent future infections by adware and other malware threats, follow these best practices:
- Avoid Downloading Software from Unverified Sources: Always download programs from the developer’s official website or the Mac App Store.
- Be Cautious with Free Software Installers: Many free programs come bundled with adware. Always select Custom Installation and deselect any additional software.
- Enable Mac’s Security Features: Use Gatekeeper and XProtect to block unauthorized apps.
- Use a Reliable Anti-Malware Tool: Regularly scan your system with SpyHunter or another reputable security program.
- Update Software Regularly: Keeping your macOS and applications updated ensures that security vulnerabilities are patched.
- Beware of Pop-Ups and Fake Alerts: Never trust pop-up warnings claiming your system is infected. Instead, close the browser and clear your cache.
- Use a Strong Firewall and Ad Blocker: Enable macOS’s built-in firewall and install a reputable ad blocker to minimize the risk of encountering malicious ads.
Conclusion
CommonBoost adware is a serious threat to Mac users, causing intrusive advertisements, redirecting users to harmful websites, and compromising privacy through data harvesting. By following the removal guide provided above, you can effectively eliminate this malware from your system. Additionally, implementing the recommended preventive measures will help protect your Mac from future infections. If you suspect your system is compromised, take immediate action and run a thorough scan using SpyHunter to ensure complete removal.
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Remove this and any other malicious threats to your system by scanning your computer with SpyHunter now! It’s FREE!