OriginalAccessibility Adware: A Threat to Mac Users and How to Remove It

OriginalAccessibility is an adware program that primarily targets Mac computers. It belongs to the notorious Adload malware family, known for flooding devices with intrusive ads, causing browser redirects, and compromising user privacy. OriginalAccessibility is not just a nuisance—it can lead to serious security threats such as phishing attacks, malware infiltration, and identity theft.

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Threat Summary: OriginalAccessibility Adware

Attribute	Details
Threat Name	Ads by OriginalAccessibility
Threat Type	Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus
Malware Family	Adload
Detection Names	Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Adload.31), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.C), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h)
Symptoms of Infection	Slower Mac performance, intrusive pop-up ads, browser redirects to suspicious sites, unwanted changes to browser settings
Distribution Methods	Deceptive pop-up ads, software bundling, torrent downloads, fake software updates
Potential Damage	Tracking of browsing habits, exposure to phishing scams, financial loss, system slowdowns, malware infiltration
Danger Level	High
Operating Systems Affected	macOS

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How Does OriginalAccessibility Adware Work?

Intrusive Ads and Unwanted Redirects

Once installed, OriginalAccessibility adware bombards users with pop-up ads, banners, and in-text advertisements that can be highly disruptive. These ads often promote scams, fake giveaways, and potentially malicious websites. Clicking on these ads can lead to websites designed to trick users into downloading malware or providing sensitive information.

Data Collection and Privacy Risks

Like most adware programs, OriginalAccessibility is known to collect browsing data. This includes:

• Browsing history
• Search queries
• IP address and geolocation
• Personal information such as login credentials (if entered on malicious sites)

This data is often sold to third-party advertisers or cybercriminals, putting victims at risk of identity theft and fraud.

Persistent Infections and Difficult Removal

One of the biggest concerns with adware like OriginalAccessibility is that it can be difficult to remove. Even if a user uninstalls the primary program, remnants may stay on the system, leading to reinstallation or continued ad injections.

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How Did OriginalAccessibility Get Installed on My Mac?

Adware programs like OriginalAccessibility usually infiltrate Macs through deceptive tactics. Some of the most common distribution methods include:

• Software Bundling: Many users download free software that includes additional, hidden installations like adware.
• Fake Software Updates: Fraudulent update prompts for Flash Player or other software may trick users into downloading malware.
• Malicious Websites & Pop-Ups: Some websites push pop-ups claiming that the user has won a prize or that their Mac is infected, leading them to download adware.
• Torrent Files & Cracked Software: Downloading pirated software or torrents can expose users to adware-laden installers.

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How to Remove OriginalAccessibility Adware from macOS (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Remove Suspicious Applications

1. Click on Finder → Go to Applications.
2. Look for suspicious applications like OriginalAccessibility or unknown software.
3. Drag them to the Trash and then empty the Trash.

Step 2: Check for Malicious Browser Extensions

For Safari

1. Open Safari → Click Safari Menu → Go to Preferences.
2. Click on Extensions and look for any suspicious or unfamiliar extensions.
3. Select them and click Uninstall.

For Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome → Click on the three-dot menu → Go to Extensions.
2. Remove any unknown extensions by clicking Remove.

For Mozilla Firefox

1. Open Firefox → Click on the menu button → Select Add-ons.
2. Remove any unwanted or suspicious add-ons.

Step 3: Reset Browser Settings

For Safari

1. Go to Safari Preferences → Select Privacy.
2. Click Manage Website Data → Remove all stored data.
3. Restart Safari.

For Chrome

1. Go to Settings → Click Advanced → Select Reset settings.

For Firefox

1. Type about:support in the address bar.
2. Click Refresh Firefox.

Step 4: Use SpyHunter to Automatically Remove OriginalAccessibility

Manual removal may leave hidden traces of adware, making automatic removal the most effective solution.

1. Download SpyHunter for Mac.
2. Install and open the program.
3. Run a Full System Scan to detect all adware-related files.
4. Click Remove to delete OriginalAccessibility and other threats.

Step 5: Remove Unwanted Login Items

1. Go to System Settings → Select Users & Groups.
2. Click Login Items.
3. Remove any unknown or suspicious entries.

Step 6: Delete Adware-Related Files Manually

1. Open Finder → Click Go → Go to Folder….
2. Enter the following directories and delete suspicious files:

   /Library/LaunchAgents/
   /Library/LaunchDaemons/
   /Library/Application Support/
   ~/Library/Application Support/
   ~/Library/LaunchAgents/

3. Empty the Trash and restart your Mac.

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How to Prevent Adware Like OriginalAccessibility from Infecting Your Mac

To avoid similar infections in the future, follow these preventive measures:

Be Cautious When Downloading Software

• Only download from official websites and trusted sources.
• Avoid installing software from pirated or torrent sites.

Opt Out of Software Bundles

• When installing new programs, choose Custom or Advanced installation options and deselect additional software.

Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Ads

• Do not click on pop-ups claiming your Mac is infected or that you’ve won a prize.
• Use an ad blocker to reduce exposure to deceptive ads.

Keep macOS and Security Software Updated

• Install the latest macOS updates to protect against vulnerabilities.
• Use a reputable anti-malware program like SpyHunter for real-time protection.

Enable Safe Browsing Features

• Activate Safari’s Fraudulent Website Warning.
• Use Google Safe Browsing on Chrome.

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Conclusion

OriginalAccessibility is a high-risk adware that compromises Mac security by injecting intrusive ads, causing browser redirects, and tracking user activity. It spreads through software bundling, deceptive pop-ups, and fake updates.

While manual removal can help, automatic removal using SpyHunter ensures a thorough cleanup. By following the recommended preventive measures, you can safeguard your Mac from future infections.

If you have been affected by OriginalAccessibility, take immediate action to remove it and protect your privacy.