How to Remove ArchiveAccess Adware

ArchiveAccess is a deceptive application categorized as adware, specifically affecting macOS devices. Although it may appear harmless at first glance, its true purpose is far more intrusive. Our analysis reveals that ArchiveAccess is designed to flood users with misleading advertisements, some of which may lead to dangerous websites, data theft, or even malware infections.

Several cybersecurity vendors, including Avast, ESET-NOD32, and Kaspersky, have flagged ArchiveAccess as a potential threat. This application belongs to the Adload malware family, a known group of malicious software targeting Mac users through deceptive tactics.

Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Name	Ads by ArchiveAccess
Threat Type	Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Detection Names	Avast: MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw] Combo Cleaner: Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.AdLoad.8 ESET-NOD32: OSX/Adware.Synataeb.C Kaspersky: Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h
Associated Email	None known
Symptoms of Infection	– Slow Mac performance – Unwanted pop-up ads – Redirects to dubious websites
Damage	– Browser tracking – Loss of sensitive information (login credentials, credit card data) – Malware infections – Financial loss
Distribution Methods	– Deceptive pop-up ads – Free software bundling – Torrent downloads
Danger Level	High – potential for identity theft, malware infection, and serious financial consequences

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What ArchiveAccess Adware Does

Once installed, ArchiveAccess starts generating various types of ads — including pop-ups, banners, coupons, and fake system alerts — all with the intent to lure users into clicking them. These ads often redirect to phishing sites, scam payment pages, or malware-hosting platforms. The consequences? Victims may experience identity theft, financial fraud, or significant system damage.

Furthermore, the presence of ArchiveAccess can noticeably degrade system performance. Macs may become sluggish, frequently freeze, or crash. Removing the app isn’t always straightforward either — leftover components can persist and continue affecting the system even after the main app is uninstalled.

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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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Why ArchiveAccess Should Not Be Ignored

ArchiveAccess is not just an annoying app that clogs your screen with pop-ups — it’s a potential gateway to cybercrime. The adware’s deceptive tactics can lead to unauthorized purchases, stolen banking information, and installation of even more dangerous malware.

It is particularly concerning because of its ties to the Adload family, a notorious group known for infiltrating Macs through cleverly disguised software bundles or misleading alerts.

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Conclusion

ArchiveAccess is a high-risk adware program that no Mac user should ignore. Beyond displaying annoying advertisements, it poses a serious threat to personal privacy and system security. Its ability to redirect users to phishing pages or malware-laden websites — combined with its persistence even after attempted removal — makes it a particularly dangerous intruder. If ArchiveAccess is found on your system, immediate action is necessary to protect your personal data and prevent further damage.

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If you are still having trouble, consider contacting remote technical support options.

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