SyncRemote Adware

SyncRemote is a type of adware that falls under the AdLoad malware family. Adware applications are designed to generate revenue for their developers by displaying intrusive advertisements on users’ devices. Although the advertisements are often seen as a minor annoyance, adware like SyncRemote can bring severe risks to both the system and the individual using it. SyncRemote may infiltrate a device through deceptive pop-ups, bundled software, or torrent downloads. Once installed, it can cause system slowdowns, display unwanted ads, and even redirect users to dangerous or scam websites. Additionally, the data-tracking abilities of SyncRemote can compromise users’ privacy by gathering sensitive information such as browsing history, personal details, and financial data. The ultimate goal of SyncRemote is to profit by exposing users to unsafe content, which could lead to financial losses, identity theft, and system infections.

Threat Overview

SyncRemote is categorized as adware, which typically generates revenue by serving advertisements on the system. These ads often promote dubious websites or unreliable software, sometimes leading to the unintentional download of malware. In some cases, adware programs also possess browser-hijacking functionalities, though SyncRemote does not appear to have this specific capability. Nonetheless, the presence of SyncRemote on a system is a significant threat, compromising both security and privacy.

Below is a detailed summary of the SyncRemote threat:

General Purpose of the Threat

The primary purpose of SyncRemote is to generate revenue through ads by infecting users’ systems. Adware applications typically function by displaying intrusive advertisements across various interfaces, such as web pages or desktop environments. SyncRemote can lead to compromised system performance, exposing users to fraudulent websites and potentially harmful software. Once it gains access to a system, SyncRemote tracks users' online activity to target them with personalized ads, which may direct them to scam websites or promote suspicious software.

The installation method of SyncRemote is often concealed within the installation process of legitimate software, commonly known as "bundling." Users are often tricked into accepting the installation of SyncRemote alongside other programs, particularly those downloaded from untrusted sources such as torrents or unreliable download sites. As a result, it is essential to avoid suspicious downloads and use trusted sources when installing new software.

Adware like SyncRemote is distinct from browser hijackers in that its primary objective is advertising, while a browser hijacker aims to take control of the user’s browser settings (such as the homepage and default search engine). Although both types of malware compromise user privacy and experience, the methods they use to infiltrate and damage systems are different.

Detection Names

SyncRemote can be detected by various anti-malware software. If you suspect your system has been infected, you may see the following detection names during a system scan:

• 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

Similar Threats

Users may encounter other adware threats similar to SyncRemote, such as:

• AdLoad: A similar malware family that also distributes unwanted ads and can cause privacy issues.
• Synataeb: Another member of the AdLoad family that targets MacOS and operates similarly to SyncRemote.
• MacKeeper: A potentially unwanted program that can also show ads and may mislead users into purchasing unnecessary software.

Removal Guide for SyncRemote

If SyncRemote is detected on your system, follow these steps to remove it:

1. Uninstall SyncRemote (If Installed via Application Folder)
   • Open Finder on your Mac.
   • Go to the Applications folder and search for any app related to SyncRemote.
   • Drag the application to the trash or use an uninstaller tool.
2. Remove Browser Extensions
   • For Safari:
     • Open Safari, go to Preferences, and click on the Extensions tab.
     • Look for any suspicious extensions and remove them.
   • For Chrome/Firefox: Open the browser, go to the Extensions menu, and remove any unknown or suspicious extensions.
3. Clear Browser Data: Go to your browser settings and clear cookies, cache, and browsing history to remove any data collected by SyncRemote.
4. Check for Other Malware: Run a thorough scan using a trusted anti-malware tool like SpyHunter to detect and remove any remaining threats.
5. Check System Settings: Review your system’s settings for any changes made by SyncRemote, such as new startup items or browser settings, and revert them to the original configuration.

Preventive Measures

To prevent adware like SyncRemote from infecting your system in the future, consider the following tips:

• Use Anti-Malware Software: Ensure your system is protected with a reputable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter, which can detect and block potential threats before they cause harm.
• Avoid Suspicious Downloads: Download software only from trusted sources. Be wary of bundled software and ensure that you decline any optional installations.
• Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your system and applications to patch vulnerabilities that adware could exploit.

We recommend downloading SpyHunter for a free scan to detect and remove SyncRemote and other potential threats. SpyHunter’s advanced scanning and removal features help safeguard your system from adware and other malware.