The Comprehensive Guide to Eliminating VersionTrust from macOS

Have you ever noticed a sudden outbreak of annoying ads on your Mac? These could be the handiwork of VersionTrust, an adware application that can interfere with your online activities. This in-depth guide will walk you through the process of identifying and eradicating VersionTrust from your macOS device effectively.

An Overview of VersionTrust: What is it?

VersionTrust is classified as a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) that primarily acts as an advertising-supported application, often termed as adware. Once installed, it floods your device with intrusive ads, often without your consent or knowledge.

The Intricacies of VersionTrust Adware

VersionTrust can display an array of ads, including banner ads, pop-up ads, video ads, in-text, and interstitial ads, appearing on web pages, in applications, or even on your desktop.

The ads shown by VersionTrust can redirect users to malicious websites, phishing scams, or sites promoting counterfeit products and services. Some ads may also contain explicit content or potentially execute scripts that trigger unwanted downloads or installations. Thus, interacting with such ads is strongly discouraged.

Moreover, VersionTrust may gather information about your browsing habits, search queries, IP addresses, geolocation information, email addresses, usernames, and in some instances, even financial data.

Threat Summary:

• Name: Ads by VersionTrust
• Threat Type: Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
• Detection Names: Avast (MacOS:Adload-CA [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Adload.31), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.H), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.j), Full List (VirusTotal)
• Symptoms: Slower Mac performance, unwanted pop-up ads, redirection 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.

The Bigger Picture: Understanding Adware

Adware like VersionTrust can modify default browser settings, including your search engine, homepage, new tab page, and more. This act, known as browser hijacking, can severely disrupt your browsing experience. Other apps similar to VersionTrust include SageFine, ClearArchive, and ElementBrowser.

The Unwanted Installation of VersionTrust

Often, users unknowingly install adware like VersionTrust while downloading software, especially free ones, where the adware is bundled with the desired application. Adware can also be distributed via deceptive websites or even disguised as legitimate software update prompts.

Preventing the Installation of Unwanted Applications

To avoid unintentional adware installation, it’s advisable to download software only from trusted websites and verified app stores. Be cautious with suspicious notifications and advertisements, and pay close attention to the installation process of any downloaded software. Opt for the “Custom” or “Advanced” installation options whenever possible. If your device is already infected with VersionTrust, consider running a scan with SpyHunter for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.

Noteworthy Reminders Post VersionTrust Installation

Once VersionTrust is installed, it displays a message, and its installation folder looks something like this:

Manual Removal of Malicious Mac Applications

You can manually remove potentially unwanted applications from your ” Applications ” folder:

Click the Finder icon. In the Finder window, select ” Applications “. In the applications folder, look for suspicious applications and drag them to the Trash. After removing the potential unwanted application(s), scan your Mac for any remaining unwanted components.

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Getting Rid of Adware-Related Files and Folders

Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go , and click Go to Folder… Then, Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents/ folder, Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/Application Support/ folder, Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents/ folder, and Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons/ folder.

Remove Malicious Extensions from Internet Browsers

Malicious extensions can be removed from Safari, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox using the respective procedures described below.

Safari

Remove malicious Safari extensions:

Open the Safari browser, from the menu bar, select ” Safari ” and click ” Preferences… “.

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.

Google Chrome

Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Click the 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 “.

Mozilla Firefox

Remove malicious extensions from Mozilla Firefox:

Click the Firefox menu  (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 “.

FAQs: Unveiling the Truth about Adware

What harm can adware cause?

Adware can compromise your browsing experience and potentially hamper your system’s performance.

What does adware do?

Adware generates and displays advertisements on the web pages you visit. Some adware may also cause redirects and collect personal data.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers primarily generate revenue through affiliate programs, promoting websites, applications, products, services, and other content.

Will SpyHunter remove VersionTrust adware?

Yes, SpyHunter can scan and effectively remove all detected adware-type applications. However, manual removal without the aid of security tools may not always be effective, as residual files may still be present in the system.