SearchProvided Mac virus (Free Guide)

What is SearchProvided Mac virus?

SearchProvided is a Mac virus that can seriously compromise your device

SearchProvided virus is malicious software that belongs to the broader family of Adload malware, specifically targeting Mac computers. It is designed to infiltrate a user's system and wreak havoc by performing a variety of harmful activities.

Once installed, the SearchProvided virus alters browser settings, including changing the homepage and other preferences. This allows the virus to redirect users to suspicious websites, which may further expose the victim to additional threats or scams. Moreover, the virus inundates users with unwanted ads, creating an unpleasant browsing experience and potentially leading to more dangerous content.

One of the most concerning aspects of the SearchProvided is its ability to install additional versions of itself, thus multiplying its presence on the infected system. This makes it increasingly difficult for users to detect and remove the malware manually.

Another alarming feature of the virus is its capability to steal sensitive data from the infected Mac. The virus can access personal information such as usernames, passwords, and financial data, which may be used for identity theft, financial fraud, or other malicious activities.

Due to its persistent nature, the SearchProvided virus is particularly challenging to remove manually. Users are advised to follow a comprehensive guide that outlines the necessary steps to remove this malicious software from their system.

How the virus spreads: common infection methods

Understanding how the SearchProvided virus spreads is crucial in preventing its infiltration and the damage it can cause to Mac computers. Two primary methods are responsible for the widespread distribution of this malicious software: fake Flash Player installers and cracked software installers.

1. Fake Flash Player Installers

One of the most prevalent tactics used by cybercriminals to spread Adload is through fake Flash Player installers. Unsuspecting users may come across pop-up ads or notifications on websites, urging them to update their Flash Player to the latest version. These deceptive prompts often mimic the appearance of legitimate software updates, making it difficult for users to differentiate between genuine and malicious installers.

Once the user clicks on the fake Flash Player installer, the SearchProvided virus is downloaded and installed onto their Mac computer. The malware then initiates its harmful activities, such as altering browser settings, displaying intrusive ads, and stealing sensitive information.

To protect against this method of infection, users should avoid downloading software updates from unverified sources. Instead, they should rely on official websites or in-app update notifications to ensure the legitimacy of the updates.

2. Cracked Software Installers

Another common method of spreading the SearchProvided virus is through cracked software installers. Cybercriminals often bundle the virus with pirated or cracked versions of popular applications, which are then distributed through peer-to-peer networks, torrent websites, or other untrustworthy sources.

When users download and install these cracked applications, they inadvertently introduce the virus to their system. The malware then proceeds to infect the computer, compromising its security and performance.

The allure of free or heavily discounted software can be tempting for many users. However, the risks associated with cracked software installers far outweigh the potential benefits. Users should always obtain software from legitimate sources, such as the official websites of developers or authorized retailers. By doing so, they can minimize the risk of encountering various malware.

In conclusion, understanding the primary methods through which the SearchProvided virus spreads is essential for prevention. Users should be cautious when encountering software updates, particularly those for Flash Player, and should avoid downloading cracked software from unverified sources. By remaining vigilant and adhering to safe browsing practices, users can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to this virus and similar threats.

Malware removal explained

Due to the elevated system permissions granted to SearchProvided, removing it may not be as straightforward or efficient as uninstalling a regular application. Besides depositing numerous malicious files on the system, this malware creates new profiles and login items.

Utilizing built-in AppleScript, the virus can effectively evade detection by security features such as XProtect and Gatekeeper, allowing it to continue functioning even if the primary app and/or browser extension have been removed. Consequently, they may reappear later.

As a result, we advise using automatic removal methods with security software like Malwarebytes or SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner to effectively eliminate the infection. Regardless of the chosen removal technique, it is important to clear web browser caches to minimize future complications.

The SearchProvided virus operates by initiating background processes upon installation. To effectively remove the primary application, it is essential first to terminate these processes using the Activity Monitor. Follow these steps:

• Open Applications folder
• Select Utilities
• Double-click Activity Monitor
• Here, look for suspicious processes and use the Force Quit command to shut them down
• Go back to the Applications folder
• Find the malicious entry and place it in Trash.

Upon infiltration, the virus might establish new User profiles and Login items for persistence. This might be the reason why you can't get rid of the app or the extension.

• Go to Preferences and select Accounts
• Click Login items and delete everything suspicious
• Next, pick System Preferences > Users & Groups
• Find Profiles and remove unwanted profiles from the list.

You should get rid of Launch Daemons and other configuration data left by malware. Proceed with the following:

• Select Go > Go to Folder.
• Enter /Library/Application Support and click Go or press Enter.
• In the Application Support folder, look for any dubious entries and then delete them.
• Now enter /Library/LaunchAgents and /Library/LaunchDaemons folders the same way and delete all the related .plist files.

If you opt to clean the infection manually, the extension may still be active in your browser and continue to collect data and execute other malicious activities, so you need to make sure that this component is removed at once:

• Click Safari > Preferences…
• In the new window, pick Extensions.
• Select the unwanted extension and select Uninstall.

Once you uninstall the extension, be sure also to delete all its cached data from your local folders, or it may continue to track your activities. FortectIntego is a great tool for automating this process and can also remove other junk from your system to improve performance. If you prefer doing this manually, follow these steps:

Safari

1. Click Safari > Clear History…
2. From the drop-down menu under Clear, pick all history.
3. Confirm with Clear History.

If you were unable to remove the extension in a regular way, you should simply reset Safari. Follow these steps:

• Click Safari > Preferences…
• Go to the Advanced tab.
• Tick the Show Develop menu in the menu bar.
• From the menu bar, click Develop, and then select Empty Caches.

If you use Firefox or Chrome, check the below instructions.