Remove IndexerType Adware

IndexerType is a rogue macOS application identified by cybersecurity researchers during routine checks on VirusTotal. It has been confirmed to be part of the infamous AdLoad malware family, a group of persistent adware threats known for targeting macOS systems. Although it may initially appear harmless, IndexerType is a potentially dangerous adware-type application capable of compromising user privacy, degrading system performance, and indirectly facilitating further malware infections.

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Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Name	IndexerType
Threat Type	Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Associated Emails	None known
Detection Names	Avast (MacOS:Adload-AG [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.AdLoad.13), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.G), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h)
Symptoms of Infection	Sluggish system performance, pop-up ads, redirects to shady websites
Damage Potential	Loss of private data, privacy breaches, redirects to scam or malware sites
Distribution Methods	Fake software updates, bundled software installers, deceptive pop-ups, torrent downloads
Danger Level	High – due to data tracking, stealthy installs, and potential malware exposure

What is IndexerType Adware?

IndexerType functions as adware — software that bombards users with intrusive advertisements such as pop-ups, banners, coupons, and overlays. These ads are often injected into visited websites or appear on the desktop, and they may seem legitimate but often link to scams, harmful software, or phishing sites.

While some adware may also include browser hijacking functionalities (like changing search engines or homepage settings), IndexerType did not show signs of such behavior during its analysis. However, it still poses a substantial risk, even if ads are not being actively displayed — its presence indicates a compromised macOS environment.

Moreover, adware like IndexerType usually collects sensitive user data. This includes browser history, search queries, IP addresses, log-in credentials, financial details, and even personally identifiable information. This harvested data can then be sold to third parties, including hackers or advertisers, for profit.

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Why IndexerType is Dangerous

Even if IndexerType doesn’t visibly flood your Mac with ads, its background activities pose serious security concerns. It may covertly operate and collect user data for third-party misuse. Many of the ads served through such adware could trigger stealth downloads or redirect users to phishing or scam sites designed to steal sensitive information.

The revenue model for apps like IndexerType typically relies on affiliate abuse, where scammers promote legitimate-looking offers to gain illicit commissions. This makes it nearly impossible to trust any advertisement or link opened through the infected system.

Additionally, macOS users are often less suspicious of malware compared to Windows users, giving adware like IndexerType more opportunities to evade detection and persist for extended periods.

Manual Adware Removal for Mac

Step 1: Identify and Uninstall Suspicious Applications

1. Open Finder and navigate to Applications.
2. Look for any unknown or suspicious apps.
3. Drag these apps to the Trash and empty it.
4. Open System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items.
5. Remove any unfamiliar startup items by selecting them and clicking the - button.

Step 2: Remove Malicious Browser Extensions

Safari

1. Open Safari and go to Preferences > Extensions.
2. Identify and remove any unwanted extensions.
3. Go to History > “Clear History” and select “All History.”

Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome, click Menu (three dots) > Extensions.
2. Remove any suspicious extensions.
3. Reset Chrome: Settings > Reset settings > “Restore settings to their original defaults.”

Mozilla Firefox

1. Click Menu > Add-ons and themes.
2. Remove any unrecognized extensions.
3. Reset Firefox: Help > More troubleshooting information > “Refresh Firefox.”

Step 3: Delete Adware-Related Files and Folders

1. Open Finder, press Shift + Command + G, and type:
   • ~/Library/Application Support/
   • ~/Library/LaunchAgents/
   • ~/Library/LaunchDaemons/
   • ~/Library/Preferences/
2. Look for and delete suspicious files or folders associated with adware.

Step 4: Flush DNS Cache

1. Open Terminal.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:
3. Enter your administrator password when prompted.

Step 5: Restart Your Mac

Restart your device to finalize the manual removal process.

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Automatic Adware Removal Using SpyHunter for Mac

For a quick and thorough cleanup, use SpyHunter, a powerful tool designed to detect and remove adware.

Step 1: Download SpyHunter

Download SpyHunter for Mac from the official website: Download SpyHunter Here.

Step 2: Install SpyHunter

1. Open the downloaded .dmg file.
2. Drag and drop SpyHunter into the Applications folder.
3. Open SpyHunter and allow it to update its malware definitions.

Step 3: Perform a System Scan

1. Open SpyHunter.
2. Click Start Scan.
3. Wait for the scan to complete.
4. Click Fix Threats to remove any detected adware.

Step 4: Restart Your Mac

After SpyHunter removes all threats, restart your Mac to complete the process.

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Conclusion

IndexerType is not just a nuisance — it’s a clear warning sign of deeper macOS vulnerability. As part of the broader AdLoad malware family, it brings ad intrusions, privacy violations, and serious potential damage. Even in the absence of overt browser hijacking, its ability to track user behavior and expose users to scam networks means it should be taken very seriously. If you notice your Mac behaving unusually or see a sudden surge in pop-ups or browser redirects, IndexerType could be the culprit. Recognizing the threat early is crucial in protecting your system and personal information.