Threat Summary
Field | Details |
---|---|
Threat type | Adware (Pirrit family) |
Associated domain | Not specified |
Detection names | Avast (MacOS:Agent‑SD [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Pirrit.4), ESET‑NOD32 (OSX/Adware.Pirrit.CF), Kaspersky (Not‑a‑virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Pirrit.ac) |
Symptoms of infection | Sudden appearance of pop-up ads, unexpected browser redirects, sluggish system behavior |
Damage, distribution methods | Tracks browsing data, floods system with advertisements, may lead to phishing or scam websites; distributed via freeware bundles, misleading ads, or fake software updates |
Danger level | Medium – can impact security and degrade user experience |
Removal tool | SpyHunter – Download SpyHunter here |
What is Adicea.app?
Adicea.app is a form of macOS adware closely tied to the infamous Pirrit family, known for its persistent behavior and privacy-invasive tactics. Though it disguises itself as a legitimate application, its real purpose is to generate revenue through intrusive advertisements and unauthorized data collection.
This adware typically operates by embedding itself into the system’s startup items, enabling it to launch every time your Mac boots. It can modify browser settings, inject ads into websites, and redirect search queries—all without user consent.
Infection Pathways
Users typically become infected with Adicea.app through deceptive download prompts, especially on sites offering pirated software or media. It is also commonly bundled with third-party freeware installers. These installers often hide the adware in “custom” or “advanced” installation settings, which users may skip through quickly.
Effects on the System
Once installed, Adicea.app alters your Mac’s behavior in several ways:
- Overwhelms the browser with persistent pop-ups and banner ads
- Redirects traffic to unreliable or malicious sites
- Monitors online activity for targeted advertising
- Slows down system performance due to constant background activity
Though it may not encrypt files like ransomware, it creates an insecure environment that puts your privacy and data at risk.
Is Adicea.app Dangerous?
Adicea.app doesn’t directly damage files or steal login credentials, but it creates significant vulnerabilities. It collects browsing data, manipulates your online experience, and may redirect users to phishing pages that mimic banking or e-commerce sites. Left unchecked, it can act as a gateway for more severe malware infections.
Recommended Removal Method
To completely remove Adicea.app, using an automated malware removal tool is essential. SpyHunter is specifically designed to locate and remove deeply embedded threats like this adware. It can detect hidden components, clean affected system files, and restore your Mac’s security.
Click here to download SpyHunter
Manual Adware Removal for Mac
Step 1: Identify and Uninstall Suspicious Applications
- Open
Finder
and navigate toApplications
. - Look for any unknown or suspicious apps.
- Drag these apps to the
Trash
and empty it. - Open
System Preferences
>Users & Groups
>Login Items
. - Remove any unfamiliar startup items by selecting them and clicking the
-
button.
Step 2: Remove Malicious Browser Extensions
Safari
- Open Safari and go to
Preferences
>Extensions
. - Identify and remove any unwanted extensions.
- Go to
History
> “Clear History” and select “All History.”
Google Chrome
- Open Chrome, click
Menu
(three dots) >Extensions
. - Remove any suspicious extensions.
- Reset Chrome:
Settings
>Reset settings
> “Restore settings to their original defaults.”
Mozilla Firefox
- Click
Menu
>Add-ons and themes
. - Remove any unrecognized extensions.
- Reset Firefox:
Help
>More troubleshooting information
> “Refresh Firefox.”
Step 3: Delete Adware-Related Files and Folders
- Open
Finder
, pressShift + Command + G
, and type:~/Library/Application Support/
~/Library/LaunchAgents/
~/Library/LaunchDaemons/
~/Library/Preferences/
- Look for and delete suspicious files or folders associated with adware.
Step 4: Flush DNS Cache
- Open
Terminal
. - Type the following command and press Enter:
- Enter your administrator password when prompted.
Step 5: Restart Your Mac
Restart your device to finalize the manual removal process.
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
- Open the downloaded
.dmg
file. - Drag and drop SpyHunter into the
Applications
folder. - Open SpyHunter and allow it to update its malware definitions.
Step 3: Perform a System Scan
- Open SpyHunter.
- Click
Start Scan
. - Wait for the scan to complete.
- 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.
Final Thoughts
Adicea.app may appear to be just an annoyance, but its long-term effects can compromise your online security and system integrity. It’s part of a broader trend of adware campaigns targeting macOS users. Prompt identification and removal with a reliable tool like SpyHunter ensures your Mac remains clean, private, and protected.