SkilledNetwork Mac virus (Free Guide)

What is SkilledNetwork Mac virus?

SkilledNetwork is a malicious Mac application designed by cybercriminals

Adload is one of the most prominent malware families that attacks Mac users

SkilledNetwork is a type of malware that specifically targets Mac computers. It is a variant of the Adload malware family and is known for its persistence and ability to evade detection by security software. It is typically distributed through malicious ads, software cracks, or fake software updates, usually those of fake Flash Player.

Once installed on a Mac, SkilledNetwork can perform a variety of malicious activities, such as stealing personal information, displaying unwanted ads, and redirecting web searches. It can also install additional malware on the infected system, making it even more vulnerable.

This article will explain how SkilledNetwork works, its characteristics, and how to know that your system is infected. If it is, you need to make sure you take appropriate steps to free your device from malware as soon as possible, or you risk the personal privacy and security of your computer.

SkilledNetwork is a variant of the Adload malware family, which has been a persistent threat to Mac users since 2017. It has been responsible for infecting a large number of Mac systems with its various strains, including RecordConsole, MetroToken, and UnitinItiator. With hundreds of variants in its arsenal, Adload has become a significant concern for Mac users and security experts.

Distribution and avoidance

Adload versions are primarily spread through two main methods: fake Flash Player updates and software cracks/pirated software installers.

One of the most common methods used to spread SkilledNetwork is through fake Flash Player updates. Flash Player has been around for many years and is often associated with multimedia player capabilities. However, Adobe discontinued the software due to its unreliability and numerous vulnerabilities that had to be patched.

Users are often tricked into downloading fake versions of Flash Player from unreliable websites that use phishing messaging. For example, a user may be prompted to update their Flash Player to view a particular site. These prompts are fake and should be ignored. It can also be delivered as “Installer.app,” which is also the name used to distribute other malware, such as the Shlayer Trojan.

Another method used to distribute this malware is through software cracks and pirated software installers. These illegal methods are often used to distribute software that would otherwise require payment. SkilledNetwork can be included as a payload alongside pirated software and can be installed without the user's knowledge.

To protect against Adload versions and other malware on Macs, users should always download software from reputable sources and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. It is also important to keep anti-virus software up to date and to practice safe browsing habits.

Dangers of malware infection

SkilledNetwork and other Adload variants are dangerous malware that can cause significant harm to Mac systems. Upon infection, the malware immediately modifies the user's browser, changing the homepage and default search provider. This modification is done to monetize ads and can lead to search queries being routed through different channels, resulting in unexpected and potentially dangerous search results.

Besides the annoying browser changes, the virus and its variants can negatively impact user privacy and security. The malware installs itself with elevated permissions, allowing it to use AppleScript and bypass Mac's built-in defenses, such as XProtect.

With the help of elevated permissions, the malware can spy on the user's browser activities, collecting sensitive information such as passwords, account details, and credit card information. This can pose serious privacy risks to the user, and it is recommended that users do not disclose any important information while their device is still infected.

SkilledNetwork and other Adload versions also frequently advertise malicious websites that may hold other viruses or solicit subscriptions to fictitious services. Clicking on these links can be dangerous and may result in further harm to the user's system.

Remove malware automatically

While Adload variants may not be considered highly complex malware, they are still a significant threat to Mac users. These variants have been able to bypass Mac's defenses due to their persistent tactics, which continue to outpace Apple's updates. As a result, these malware strains can continue to operate in the background for extended periods unless removed using effective techniques.

To speed up the removal process, third-party security software like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes can be used. As the virus generates a large number of files upon infection, manual removal may require advanced computer skills, and skipping any files could result in the virus reappearing.

However, if you choose to remove the malware manually, take caution when handling browsers. Clearing cookies and other files from browser caches is important for better privacy. Alternatively, you can use an automatic solution such as FortectIntego to eliminate the malware without the need for manual intervention.

Manual removal explained

Removing the malicious extensions and cleaning browsers

The virus extension is a crucial element of the malware's operation cycle. It is responsible for modifying browser settings, such as the homepage, new tab address, and search provider, to ensure that users are constantly exposed to advertisements.

Moreover, the extension enables the malware to gather personal information from anyone who has it installed. This is made possible by the virus requesting elevated permissions during the installation process. Such actions can result in severe privacy concerns and lead to identity theft. It is, therefore, essential to remove this extension as soon as possible.

It is worth noting that security software can automatically remove the virus extension, making it unnecessary for users to perform this step manually. However, if the extension is still present, it is recommended to uninstall it immediately to avoid any potential risks.

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

If you were unable to uninstall the extension in a regular way, you can reset Safari instead. It is easy to do:

• 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.

After removing the malicious software from the device, it is important to take the additional step of eliminating all trackers. These tracking components, such as cookies, are installed by adware and spyware and can remain on the computer for an extended period of time if not removed. Clearing browser caches on a regular basis is critical to ensure that these trackers do not remain on the system for an extended period of time, potentially compromising privacy and security.

Even if the adware or spyware is removed, the trackers may continue to collect and transmit sensitive information to unauthorized third parties. Therefore, it is essential to periodically clear all traces of tracking components to safeguard your data and protect your privacy.

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

If you use Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox browser, follow the instructions below.