The problem is malware can come disguised as a trusted friend. Remember Adobe Flash? Hopefully, you received the news, but if not, here it is: Flash is dead. And any site or app that tries to sell or offer you anything to do with the Flash should be avoided. Tap or click here to avoid being hacked by Flash pretenders. Countless well-known programs are being used as delivery systems for malware, and one program has proved very popular for crooks. In fact, this program is responsible for half of all Mac malware. Here’s what to watch out for.
Here’s the backstory
MacKeeper is a Mac program designed to prevent and remove viruses, ads and junk. It also helps optimize resources and monitor internal resources. Sounds good, right? Ironically, nearly half of Mac malware comes from this program! The program is also known for aggressive marketing and annoying, intrusive ads. Plus, cybercriminals are abusing MacKeeper and its extensive permissions. Spoofed versions of the software and its updates can cause havoc on your computer.
Should you remove MacKeeper?
Komando.com received a message from a concerned reader named Dave. He read our article on MacKeeper and wants to know if he should keep it. Tap or click here for our full report on MacKeeper and the risks surrounding it. There are ways to safely use MacKeeper, such as making sure you download it from an official app store and using two-factor authentication when logging into any account. Tap or click here for more on 2FA. If you’re using MacKeeper to keep out viruses, you’re better off with a trusted program like our sponsor, TotalAV. Right now, get an annual plan with TotalAV for only $19 at ProtectWithKim.com. That’s over 85% off the regular price! If you’d like to remove MacKeeper, first quit the program and all processes related to the app. Here’s what to do next:
Go to the Applications folder and drag MacKeeper into the Trash.Confirm you want to uninstall the program, enter your password and click OK.Restart your Mac and make sure the MacKeeper icon is no longer in the top menu bar.You may need to find and remove service files that MacKeeper left on your disk. By default, they should be stored in the system Library folder.Go to Finder > Go > Go to Folder.Copy and paste these paths one by one:~/Library/Application Support/MacKeeper~/Library/Application Support/com.mackeeper.MacKeeper~/Library/Application Support/com.mackeeper.MacKeeperAgent~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.mackeeper.MacKeeperAgent.plist~/Library/Caches/com.mackeeper.MacKeeper~/Library/Caches/com.mackeeper.MacKeeperAgentDrag all files in those folders to the Trash.Once you remove all MacKeeper’s service files, empty your Trash bin.Restart your Mac.
Word documents and PDF files are commonly used to hide malware. But it goes beyond that. Hackers are also hiding malware in PNG files. Tap or click here for what to watch out for.
Get your refund
MacKeeper is available in monthly, semi-annual and annual subscriptions. You may be entitled to a full or partial refund, depending on your plan and how soon (or late) you cancel. Go to mackeeper.com/refund-policy to check your eligibility and request a refund. You can also contact customer service at billing@mackeeper.com.
Keep reading
Use this easy, free check to see if a site or file contains malware Tech security tip: How to remove malware from your phone or computer
