How to remove 'K9-MacOptimizer' from Mac computers
What is 'K9-MacOptimizer'?
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K9-MacOptimizer is software endorsed as an optimizer for the Mac operating system. It is supposedly capable of freeing-up space on the hard drive by removing 'junk' and temporary files, securely deleting sensitive and confidential data, etc. K9-MacOptimizer is classified as a Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA) due to its dubious distribution methods. I.e., most users are tricked into installing this app, and it is often distributed together with other software. This deceptive marketing method of pre-packing regular content with PUAs is called 'bundling'.
When installed, K9-MacOptimizer runs a system scan and detects various 'issues'. When users attempt to remove these issues, they find that they are required to purchase the activation key. I.e., in effect, purchase K9-MacOptimizer. PUAs can never be trusted. In most cases, these applications are untrusted and nonoperational. Even if purchased, they are unable to perform the advertised functions. Note that apps such as K9-MacOptimizer are often distributed together with other PUAs (e.g. browser hijackers and/or adware). In fact, unwanted applications cause numerous problems and are a threat to device and user safety. PUAs generate redirects to sale-oriented, untrustworthy, compromised, and even malicious websites. Additionally, they run intrusive advertisement campaigns. By implementing various tools, they enable third party graphical content to be displayed on any site. In this way, they deliver ads (pop-ups, banners, surveys, coupons, etc.), which diminish the browsing experience by overlaying web page content and limiting browsing performance. Some PUAs have data tracking abilities. They monitor browsing activity (URLs visited, pages viewed, search engine history, etc.) and gather personal information (IP addresses, geolocations, and personal details). This private data is then shared with third parties (potentially, cyber criminals) seeking to misuse it for financial gain. To summarize, PUAs can cause browser and system infiltration/infections and lead to serious privacy issues, financial loss, and even identity theft. To ensure device integrity and user safety, remove all dubious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins immediately.
Name | K9-MacOptimizer potentially unwanted application |
Threat Type | PUP (potentially unwanted program), PUA (potentially unwanted application), Mac malware, Mac virus |
Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:Tuneupmac-B [Tool]), BitDefender (Gen:Variant.Application.MAC.OSX.MCPlus.1), Emsisoft (Gen:Variant.Application.MAC.OSX.MCPlus.1 (B)), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/TuneupMyMac.B Potentially Unwanted), Full list of detections (VirusTotal) |
Symptoms | Your Mac becomes slower than normal, you see unwanted pop-up ads, you are redirected to dubious websites. |
Distribution methods | Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), fake flash player installers, torrent file downloads. |
Damage | Internet browser tracking (potential privacy issues), display of unwanted ads, redirects to dubious websites, loss of private information. |
Malware Removal (Mac) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your Mac with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Most PUAs share certain traits, and those apps released by the same developers might even be identical. Mac Speedup Pro, MacOptimizer, and Mac Space Reviver are just some examples of applications similar to K9-MacOptimizer. They typically seem legitimate and offer various features, ranging from system cleaners and optimizers to content providers (e.g. TV, movie, radio, music, etc.). While these features may sound useful and beneficial, they are used to lure people to install. The advertised features are usually nonfunctional. The only purpose of PUAs is to generate revenue for the designers, whilst regular users receive nothing. Rather than delivering any value, PUAs cause redirects, deliver ad campaigns, and track vulnerable data.
How did potentially unwanted applications install on my computer?
Some PUAs, such as K9-MacOptimizer, have 'official' websites, on which they are often advertised as 'free' and 'useful' software. As well as these deceptive sites, unwanted applications also proliferate through scam pages, which warn users of so-called 'threats' detected on their systems and endorse bogus tools for their removal. PUAs also proliferate via the download/install set-ups of other programs. This deceptive marketing technique ('bundling') is very popular amongst developers of unwanted and malicious content. Rushing download/installation processes (e.g. ignoring terms, skipping steps and sections, using pre-set options, etc.) endangers devices with potential system infiltration and infections. Intrusive advertisements are also known to proliferate PUAs. Once clicked, they execute scripts designed to make these rogue downloads/installs.
How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications
You are advised to research software and content to verify its legitimacy, before downloading/installing. Only trustworthy and verified download channels should be used. Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, unofficial and free file-hosting websites, third party downloaders, and similar sources are often untrustworthy and should not be used. Download and installation processes should be treated with caution. Read the terms, explore possible options, use the 'Custom/Advanced' settings, and opt-out of downloading/installing additional apps, tools, features, etc. Intrusive advertisements usually seem legitimate and harmless, however, they often redirect to dubious web pages (e.g. gambling, pornography, adult-dating, etc.). If you encounter these ads/redirects, check the device and remove all suspicious applications and/or browser extensions/plug-ins without delay. If your computer is already infected with PUAs, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate them.
Screenshot of 'K9-MacOptimizer' installer:
Website promoting 'K9-MacOptimizer':
Appearance of 'K9-MacOptimizer' scam (GIF):
Instant automatic Mac malware removal:Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced computer skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of Mac malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner for MacBy downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited three days free trial available.
Quick menu:
- STEP 1. Remove PUA related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove rogue extensions from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove rogue add-ons from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove potentially unwanted plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove K9-MacOptimizer unwanted application using Combo Cleaner:
Potentially unwanted applications removal:
Remove potentially unwanted applications from your 'Applications' folder:
Click the Finder icon. In the Finder window, select 'Applications'. In the applications folder, look for 'MPlayerX','NicePlayer', or other suspicious applications and drag them to the Trash. After removing the potentially unwanted application(s) that cause online ads, scan your Mac for any remaining unwanted components.
Combo Cleaner checks if your computer is infected with malware. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited three days free trial available.
Remove k9-macoptimizer potentially unwanted application related files and folders:
Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...
Check for adware-generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents
In the “LaunchAgents” folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - “installmac.AppRemoval.plist”, “myppes.download.plist”, “mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist”, “kuklorest.update.plist”, etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the same string.
Check for adware generated files in the /Library/Application Support folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/Application Support
In the “Application Support” folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, “MplayerX” or “NicePlayer”, and move these folders to the Trash.
Check for adware-generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents folder:
In the Go to Folder bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents
In the “LaunchAgents” folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - “installmac.AppRemoval.plist”, “myppes.download.plist”, “mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist”, “kuklorest.update.plist”, etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the same string.
Check for adware-generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons
In the “LaunchDaemons” folder, look for recently-added suspicious files. For example “com.aoudad.net-preferences.plist”, “com.myppes.net-preferences.plist”, 'com.kuklorest.net-preferences.plist”, “com.avickUpd.plist”, etc., and move them to the Trash.
Scan your Mac with Combo Cleaner:
If you have followed all the steps in the correct order you Mac should be clean of infections. To be sure your system is not infected run a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus. Download it HERE. After downloading the file double click combocleaner.dmg installer, in the opened window drag and drop Combo Cleaner icon on top of the Applications icon. Now open your launchpad and click on the Combo Cleaner icon. Wait until Combo Cleaner updates it's virus definition database and click 'Start Combo Scan' button.
Combo Cleaner will scan your Mac for malware infections. If the antivirus scan displays 'no threats found' - this means that you can continue with the removal guide, otherwise it's recommended to remove any found infections before continuing.
After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.
K9-MacOptimizer potentially unwanted application removal from Internet browsers:
Remove malicious extensions from Safari:
Remove k9-macoptimizer potentially unwanted application related Safari extensions:
Open Safari browser, from the menu bar, select 'Safari' and click 'Preferences...'.
Macoptimizer
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 normal browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Safari.
Remove malicious plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox:
Remove k9-macoptimizer potentially unwanted application related Mozilla Firefox add-ons:
Open your Mozilla Firefox browser. At the top right corner of the screen, click the 'Open Menu' (three horizontal lines) button. From the opened menu, choose 'Add-ons'.
Choose the 'Extensions' tab and look for any recently-installed suspicious add-ons. When located, click the 'Remove' button next to it/them. Note that you can safely uninstall all extensions from your Mozilla Firefox browser - none are crucial for normal browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Mozilla Firefox.
Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
Remove k9-macoptimizer potentially unwanted application related Google Chrome add-ons:
Mac Optimizer Free
Open Google Chrome and click the 'Chrome menu' (three horizontal lines) button located in the top-right corner of the browser window. From the drop-down menu, choose 'More Tools' and select 'Extensions'.
In the 'Extensions' window, look for any recently-installed suspicious add-ons. When located, click the 'Trash' button next to it/them. Note that you can safely uninstall all extensions from your Google Chrome browser - none are crucial for normal browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.
How to remove MacOptimizer from Mac?
What is MacOptimizer?
MacOptimizer is a deceptive application identical to Advanced Mac Cleaner, Mac Mechanic, and a number of others. By offering various system optimization-related features, MacOptimizer often tricks users into believing that it is legitimate and useful. In fact, this app is categorized as a potentially unwanted program (PUP). Research shows that, in most cases, MacOptimizer infiltrates systems without permission.
Following infiltration, MacOptimizer claims to scan the system and display potential errors. Users are encouraged to remove them immediately, however, since MacOptimizer's free version is apparently unable to do so, they are encouraged purchase the full version. Note that the entire list of errors is false - your system is likely to be perfectly safe and optimized. Developers generate revenue by abusing users' trust. MacOptimizer is a useless application and you should never pay for the full version - you are advised to uninstall it immediately. As mentioned above, MacOptimizer usually infiltrates systems without users' consent. There is a high probability that it came together with a number of other PUPs. Research shows that potentially unwanted programs typically do three things: 1) display intrusive advertisements ['Pay Per Click' - PPC - advertising model]; 2) modify web browser options [promoting dubious sites, most of which are fake search engines], and; 3) collect sensitive information [which is later sold to third parties]. These applications deliver no real value for regular users and should be uninstalled.
Name | MacOptimizer potentially unwanted program |
Threat Type | Mac malware, Mac virus |
Symptoms | Your Mac became slower than normal, you see unwanted pop-up ads, you get redirected to shady websites. |
Distribution methods | Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), fake flash player installers, torrent file downloads. |
Damage | Internet browsing tracking (potential privacy issues), displaying of unwanted ads, redirects to shady websites, loss of private information. |
Malware Removal (Mac) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your Mac with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
MacOptimizer shares many similarities with Mac Space Reviver, MyShopcoupon, LiveShoppers, and dozens of other potentially unwanted programs. As with MacOptimizer, these apps also offer certain 'useful functions', however, claims to provide them are merely attempts to trick users to install. In fact, all PUPs are designed only to generate revenue for the developers and typically deliver no real value for regular users. PUPs spread intrusive ads, cause unwanted redirects, gather various information, and promote in-app purchases.
How did MacOptimizer install on my computer?
MacOptimizer is free for anyone to download on its official website, however, as with most potentially unwanted programs, it often infiltrates systems without permission. The reasons for this are the careless behavior and poor knowledge of many users. Developers proliferate PUPs by 'bundling' and intrusive advertising methods. 'Bundling' is essentially stealth installation of third party applications with regular software/apps. Developers do not disclose these installations properly - they hide 'bundled apps within 'Custom/Advanced' settings (or other sections) of the download/installation processes. Furthermore, many users skip steps and click dubious - yet 'tempting' - links/ads. This behavior often leads to inadvertent installation of potentially unwanted programs, such as MacOptimizer.
How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?
The main reasons for computer infections are poor knowledge and careless behavior. The key to safety is caution. Therefore, pay close attention when browsing the Internet and downloading/installing software. Research shows that cyber criminals invest a great deal of time and effort into designing intrusive ads. Therefore, most look legitimate. Once clicked, however, they redirect to gambling, adult dating, pornography, and other dubious sites. If you experience these redirects, immediately eliminate all dubious applications and browser plug-ins. Furthermore, select 'Advanced/Custom' settings and closely analyze each step of the download/installation procedures. Decline offers to download/install additional applications and cancel those already included. Note that criminals monetize unofficial downloaders/installers by promoting rogue apps ('bundling' method). Therefore, you are advised to download your apps only from official/certified sources, using direct download links. We also strongly recommend that you use a legitimate anti-virus/anti-spyware suite.
Deceptive application installer promoting MacOptimizer adware:
Screenshot of potentially unwanted program MacOptimizer:
IMPORTANT NOTE! MacOptimizer adds itself to the list of applications that automatically run upon each user log in. Therefore, before commencing, perform these steps:
- Go to System Preferences -> Users & Groups.
- Click your account (also known as Current User).
- Click Login Items.
- Look for the 'MacOptimizer' entry. Select it, and click the '-' button to remove it.
Instant automatic Mac malware removal:Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced computer skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of Mac malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner for MacBy downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited three days free trial available.
Quick menu:
- STEP 1. Remove MacOptimizer related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove rogue extensions from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove bogus add-ons from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove rogue plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove adware and browser hijackers from a Mac computer:
MacOptimizer PUP removal:
Remove potentially unwanted applications from the 'Applications' folder:
Click the Finder icon. In the Finder window, select “Applications”. In the applications folder, look for “MacOptimizer” and other suspicious applications and drag them to the Trash. After removing the potentially unwanted application(s) that cause online ads, scan your Mac for any remaining unwanted components.
Combo Cleaner checks if your computer is infected with malware. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited three days free trial available.
Remove macoptimizer potentially unwanted program related files and folders:
Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...
Check for adware-generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents
In the “LaunchAgents” folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - “installmac.AppRemoval.plist”, “myppes.download.plist”, “mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist”, “kuklorest.update.plist”, etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the same string.
Check for adware generated files in the /Library/Application Support folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/Application Support
In the “Application Support” folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, “MplayerX” or “NicePlayer”, and move these folders to the Trash.
Macoptimizer 4
Check for adware-generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents folder:
In the Go to Folder bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents
In the “LaunchAgents” folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - “installmac.AppRemoval.plist”, “myppes.download.plist”, “mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist”, “kuklorest.update.plist”, etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the same string.
Check for adware-generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons
In the “LaunchDaemons” folder, look for recently-added suspicious files. For example “com.aoudad.net-preferences.plist”, “com.myppes.net-preferences.plist”, 'com.kuklorest.net-preferences.plist”, “com.avickUpd.plist”, etc., and move them to the Trash.
Scan your Mac with Combo Cleaner:
If you have followed all the steps in the correct order you Mac should be clean of infections. To be sure your system is not infected run a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus. Download it HERE. After downloading the file double click combocleaner.dmg installer, in the opened window drag and drop Combo Cleaner icon on top of the Applications icon. Now open your launchpad and click on the Combo Cleaner icon. Wait until Combo Cleaner updates it's virus definition database and click 'Start Combo Scan' button.
Combo Cleaner will scan your Mac for malware infections. If the antivirus scan displays 'no threats found' - this means that you can continue with the removal guide, otherwise it's recommended to remove any found infections before continuing.
After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.
MacOptimizer potentially unwanted program removal from Internet browsers:
Remove malicious extensions from Safari:
Remove macoptimizer potentially unwanted program related Safari extensions:
Open 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 normal browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Safari.
Remove malicious plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox:
Remove macoptimizer potentially unwanted program related Mozilla Firefox add-ons:
Macoptimizer
Open your Mozilla Firefox browser. At the top right corner of the screen, click the 'Open Menu' (three horizontal lines) button. From the opened menu, choose 'Add-ons'.
Choose the 'Extensions' tab and look for any recently-installed suspicious add-ons. When located, click the 'Remove' button next to it/them. Note that you can safely uninstall all extensions from your Mozilla Firefox browser - none are crucial for normal browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Mozilla Firefox.
Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
Remove macoptimizer potentially unwanted program related Google Chrome add-ons:
Open Google Chrome and click the 'Chrome menu' (three horizontal lines) button located in the top-right corner of the browser window. From the drop-down menu, choose 'More Tools' and select 'Extensions'.
In the 'Extensions' window, look for any recently-installed suspicious add-ons. When located, click the 'Trash' button next to it/them. Note that you can safely uninstall all extensions from your Google Chrome browser - none are crucial for normal browser operation.
Mac Optimizer Software
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.