How to remove SearchWebSvc

SearchWebSvc – a malicious application that disturbs macOS users with ads and installs other apps without asking

SearchWebSvc is an adware^[1] application that is actively being spread via fake Flash update prompts and targets Mac systems exclusively. Nevertheless, some users may install the PUP via software bundle packages that they downloaded from unofficial sources. The app also belongs to the AdLoad virus family, which is capable of install adware and PUPs on users' systems without permission – this makes SearchWebSvc particularly dangerous.

Once inside, SearchWebSvc might perform several changes to users' web browsers. For example, the homepage and the new tab of Google Chrome, Safari, and Mozilla Firefox can get switched to search.searchpulse.net or home.searchpulse.net, and users may start seeing redirects to sites like akamaihd.net, which is typically filled with intrusive pop-ups, deals, offers, banners, coupons, and other commercial content. Besides, the SearchWebSvc virus can track information that relates to users' web browsing habits, all while installing multiple unwanted apps on Macs in the background, each of which could pose even more security risks.

Most of the modern browsers ask users whether they want to apply changes that are being implemented by a newly-installed application. While these changes might be stopped, the installed browser extensions and homepage settings may not be terminated in a usual way – SearchWebSvc uses various permissions to prevent users from reverting these changes.

As a result, users may be stuck with the web browser that is using an unsafe search engine – which is typically search.searchpulse.net or home.searchpulse.net. While the search engine directs all results to a legitimate source (Yahoo.com), it does not mean that they are genuine.

SearchWebSvc will populate top search results with sponsored links and ads, increasing the traffic to the affiliated sites. Each click made by users provides monetary benefit for the app developers, so it is in their best interest to have as many users to click on these links as possible. Unfortunately, some people do not understand that they are being deceived and that their browsing routine is a different experience from what it is supposed to be.

On the other hand, many will notice these changes that there entirely unasked for, as intrusive ads will flood each visited page. However, because many were tricked into installing the SearchWebSvc virus via fake update prompts, most will not know that they have the app installed in the first place.

Another reason to remove SearchWebSvc as soon as possible is due to data tracking practices. Typically, adware gathers the following information:

• IP address
• Geolocation
• Links clicked
• Ads clicked
• Timestamp
• Technical details of the device
• List of installed apps
• Search queries, etc.

Besides making changes to the web browsers, the PUP may also insert multiple files into the system and also established unsolicited Profiles. By doing so, the app prevents easy SearchWebSvc removal and continues to operate in the background. Luckily, there are multiple anti-malware that could help users with the process.

Because SearchWebSvc modifies browser settings, we highly recommend to reset all the installed web browsers – we provide instructions on how to do that below. Additionally, if your macOS is slow even after you delete unwanted apps, it may be struggling with space due to junk files. To fix this issue, employ optimization software FortectIntego.

Avoid being infected with adware and all the problems that come with it 

Adware is generally not considered malicious, although many such apps cross the line of simply being “potentially unwanted.” Installing software behind users' back is malicious activity, and should never be tolerated. It is worth noting that adware on Macs become a much more prevalent phenomenon in recent years, so users should employ precautionary measures to avoid it. 

There are two main methods how macOS users get infected with adware:

• Software bundle packages downloaded from third-party sites;
• Fake Flash Player update prompts encountered on malicious websites.

When it comes to the former, it is plain and simple – you should avoid third-party websites and not use them as sources for new apps. Currently, Apple's App store holds more than 1.8 million apps,^[2], so there is plenty to choose from. If, despite this, you still want to download apps from third-parties, ensure that you never rush the installation process, read the instructions carefully, watch our for pre-ticked boxes, and always opt for Advanced/Custom settings if prompted to remain in control of optional components that are deceptively offered to you.

There is also one thing you should know about the Flash Player as a regular user – you do not need this plugin on your macOS computer. Most modern web browsers already have the functionality implemented, and Flash is simply an outdated and flawed piece of software that is not needed anyways.^[3] Thus, DO NOT ever “update” Flash when prompted on a random site – it is a scam, and you may infect your computer with malware.

Get rid of SearchWebSvc virus

To remove SearchWebSvc virus from your Mac, dragging it to the Trash will not suffice. To get rid of the threat manually, you will have to perform several different steps in order to ensure that all the components of the unwanted app are eliminated. Because SearchWebSvc app establishes an unwanted profile, you should eliminate it:

• Go to System Preferences…
• Select Profiles
• Get rid of the unwanted profile by clicking on “–” at the bottom-left

Now you should navigate to the Library folder and eliminate the following entries:

~/Library/Application Support/com.SearchWebSvc
~/Library/Application Support/com.SearchWebSvcDaemon

You should also check the LaunchAgents and LaunchDaemons for unwanted .plish entries related to the infection. Nevertheless, you can also perform automatic SearchWebSvc removal with the help of anti-malware software.