CommonMethod Adware: A Dangerous AdLoad Malware Variant

CommonMethod is a form of adware that belongs to the notorious AdLoad malware family. Discovered during a security investigation of new file submissions to VirusTotal, this application was identified as advertising-supported software that primarily targets Mac devices. CommonMethod adware is designed to generate revenue through intrusive advertisements, but it also poses significant privacy and security risks.

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Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Name	Ads by CommonMethod
Threat Type	Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
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	Mac becomes slower, unwanted pop-up ads, browser redirects to dubious websites
Damage	Internet browser tracking (privacy invasion), unwanted ads, redirects to potentially harmful websites, potential loss of sensitive information
Distribution Methods	Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), torrent file downloads
Danger Level	High

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Understanding CommonMethod Adware

How Does CommonMethod Work?

CommonMethod operates by injecting intrusive advertisements into a user's browsing experience. These advertisements often appear in the form of pop-ups, banners, coupons, and redirect links. While the primary goal is to generate ad revenue, these ads frequently lead users to fraudulent websites, phishing pages, and even malware-laden platforms.

Potential Risks and Consequences

Even if CommonMethod does not actively display ads, its presence on a system remains a severe security risk due to the following factors:

• Data Tracking: Adware applications often collect browsing data, search queries, browser cookies, and even personally identifiable information like usernames, passwords, and financial details.
• Security Vulnerabilities: By redirecting users to malicious websites, adware like CommonMethod increases the risk of secondary infections from other malware, spyware, or ransomware.
• System Performance Issues: Affected Macs may experience sluggish performance due to excessive resource consumption by the adware.
• Privacy Invasion: Sensitive data can be sold to third-party advertisers, leading to targeted phishing scams and identity theft.

How Does CommonMethod Infect Systems?

CommonMethod primarily spreads through deceptive distribution techniques, including:

• Bundled Software Installers: Free software installers often include adware components that install alongside the primary program without explicit user consent.
• Fake Software Updates: Users may encounter fraudulent pop-ups claiming their system is outdated, leading them to install malicious files disguised as updates.
• Torrent and Cracked Software Downloads: Adware is often embedded in pirated applications and games, infecting users who download from unreliable sources.
• Malicious Advertisements: Clicking on deceptive ads can trigger silent installations of unwanted applications.

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How to Remove CommonMethod Adware

Step 1: Download and Install SpyHunter

1. Download the software.
2. Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install SpyHunter on your Mac.

Step 2: Run a Full System Scan

1. Launch SpyHunter.
2. Click on the Start Scan button.
3. Allow the scan to complete as SpyHunter detects adware and other potential threats.

Step 3: Remove Identified Threats

1. Review the scan results.
2. Click on Fix Threats to remove CommonMethod and any associated malware.

Step 4: Restart Your Mac

After removing the adware, restart your Mac to ensure all remnants are completely eliminated.

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Manual Removal Guide

If you prefer to remove CommonMethod manually, follow these steps:

Step 1: Remove CommonMethod from Applications

1. Open Finder > Applications.
2. Locate CommonMethod or any suspicious applications.
3. Right-click the application and select Move to Trash.
4. Empty the Trash.

Step 2: Delete Malicious Profiles

1. Open System Settings > Profiles.
2. Look for unknown or suspicious profiles.
3. Select and remove them.

Step 3: Reset Browsers to Remove Adware Components

For Safari

1. Open Safari > Settings.
2. Go to the Extensions tab.
3. Remove suspicious extensions.
4. Clear browsing data under the Privacy tab.

For Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome and type chrome://extensions/ in the address bar.
2. Disable and remove any unfamiliar extensions.
3. Reset Chrome settings via chrome://settings/reset.

For Mozilla Firefox

1. Open Firefox and go to Add-ons.
2. Remove any suspicious extensions.
3. Reset Firefox settings.

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How to Prevent Future Infections

• Avoid Downloading Freeware from Unreliable Sources: Always download software from official websites.
• Be Cautious of Pop-Ups and Fake Updates: Never trust browser pop-ups that claim your software is outdated.
• Use a Reliable Anti-Malware Tool: Keep SpyHunter or another trusted anti-malware program installed.
• Enable Mac’s Built-in Security Features: Activate Gatekeeper and XProtect to block unauthorized applications.
• Use a Secure Browser: Opt for privacy-focused browsers that have built-in ad-blocking capabilities.

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Conclusion

CommonMethod adware is a dangerous application that threatens user privacy, system performance, and overall cybersecurity. Its affiliation with the AdLoad malware family makes it a persistent and evolving threat. By following the removal and prevention guidelines outlined in this article, users can effectively safeguard their Mac devices against similar infections in the future.

For optimal security, always keep a trusted anti-malware tool like SpyHunter installed and avoid risky online behaviors that could expose your system to malicious software.