Bezant.app is a deceptive adware application targeting macOS users. Linked to the notorious Pirrit malware family, it infiltrates systems through misleading tactics, leading to intrusive advertisements, browser redirects, and potential data breaches. Once installed, Bezant.app modifies system settings and employs persistence techniques, making its removal challenging without specialized tools.
Threat Overview
Bezant.app operates as a browser hijacker and adware, altering browser configurations to inject unwanted advertisements and redirect users to dubious websites. Its association with the Pirrit malware family underscores its potential to compromise user privacy and system integrity.
Bezant.app Threat Summary
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Adware / Browser Hijacker / Potentially Unwanted Application (PUP) |
Associated Domain | chillsearch.xyz, nearbyme.io |
Detection Names | MacOS:Pirrit-CH [Adw], OSX/Adware.Pirrit.BP, Adware.MAC.Pirrit.KR |
Symptoms of Infection | Unwanted pop-up ads, browser redirects, system slowdown, unauthorized data collection |
Damage | Alters browser settings, displays intrusive ads, collects personal data |
Distribution Methods | Software bundling, fake software updates, malicious websites |
Danger Level | High |
Removal Tool | SpyHunter for Mac |
In-Depth Analysis
How Did I Get Infected?
Bezant.app typically infiltrates systems through:
- Software Bundling: Included with free software downloads from unverified sources.
- Fake Software Updates: Prompts mimicking legitimate updates, such as Adobe Flash Player, trick users into installation.
- Malicious Websites: Visiting compromised or deceptive sites can trigger automatic downloads.
What Does It Do?
Once installed, Bezant.app:
- Alters browser settings to inject advertisements and redirect searches.
- Displays intrusive pop-up ads and banners.
- Collects browsing data and personal information without consent.
- Slows down system performance due to background processes.
Should You Be Worried?
Absolutely. Bezant.app compromises user privacy, degrades system performance, and can serve as a gateway for more severe malware infections. Immediate removal is essential to restore system integrity and protect personal data.
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.
Conclusion
Bezant.app is a significant threat to macOS users, employing deceptive tactics to infiltrate systems and compromise user privacy. Its association with the Pirrit malware family and its intrusive behavior necessitate prompt action. Utilizing reputable anti-malware tools like SpyHunter for Mac is recommended to ensure complete removal and safeguard your system against future threats.