FormatLocator Adware: Overview and Threat Assessment

FormatLocator is a malicious adware program that primarily targets Mac users, delivering intrusive and often deceptive advertisements. This type of malware is known for displaying various pop-ups, banners, and coupons, all designed to annoy users while pushing them toward potentially dangerous websites. The adware can cause significant system performance issues, including slower speeds, excessive resource usage, and browser disruptions. In addition to the inconveniences it creates, FormatLocator can be harmful to users’ privacy and security, promoting scams that may steal personal information or install additional malware.

Threat Summary: FormatLocator Adware

Functionality and Risks

How It Works:
FormatLocator infiltrates a user’s system typically via bundled software downloads, torrent files, or deceptive pop-up ads that trick users into installing it. Once installed, the application displays various types of ads, including pop-ups, banners, and coupons. These ads may link to scam websites that attempt to steal personal information, promote fraudulent tech support services, or push other malicious software.

The program is categorized as adware because its main goal is to generate revenue by showing intrusive ads. However, its activities often extend beyond simply showing ads to altering browser settings, redirecting users to harmful sites, and tracking their browsing habits for malicious purposes.

Potential Consequences:
The presence of FormatLocator can significantly slow down the infected system by consuming system resources to display ads and run background processes. More importantly, the adware can jeopardize user privacy, as it can collect and misuse personal information. Clicking on deceptive ads or visiting websites promoted by FormatLocator can result in exposure to phishing scams, identity theft, and the installation of further malicious software.

Similar Threats

Other similar threats that users may encounter include:

• Adload: A widespread adware family that shares similar characteristics with FormatLocator, including deceptive pop-ups and performance degradation.
• Mac Adware: Variants of Mac-targeting adware that also deliver unwanted ads and potential malware infections.
• Browser Hijackers: These modify browser settings (homepage, search engine) and redirect users to fraudulent sites.

Detection Names

Security vendors use various detection names to identify FormatLocator on infected systems:

• Avast (MacOS:Adload-AG [Adw])
• Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.AdLoad.13)
• ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.H)
• Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.j)

These detection names are helpful if you have scanned your system using an antivirus or anti-malware tool and are looking for specific signs of infection.

Removal Guide

If you suspect that your system has been infected with FormatLocator adware, follow this step-by-step guide to remove it:

1. Step 1: Use Anti-Malware Software
   • Download and Install SpyHunter: This is a trusted anti-malware tool that can scan your system for adware and other threats.
   • Run a Full Scan: Perform a complete system scan to identify and remove any adware or related threats. SpyHunter will automatically detect FormatLocator and other malicious software.
2. Step 2: Manual Removal (Mac OS)
   1. Uninstall the Application:
      1. Go to Applications in Finder.
      2. Find FormatLocator or any suspicious applications.
      3. Right-click and select Move to Trash. Empty the trash afterward.
   2. Remove Browser Extensions:
      1. Safari: Open Safari > Preferences > Extensions. Remove any extensions that seem suspicious or are related to the adware.
      2. Chrome: Go to Settings > Extensions. Disable or remove any unknown or suspicious extensions.
      3. Firefox: Open Menu > Add-ons and disable/remove suspicious add-ons.
3. Step 3: Check for Residual Files
   • Open Finder and search for any residual files related to FormatLocator. Remove these files if found.
   • You may need to manually delete configuration files or caches that the app has left behind in hidden folders.
4. Step 4: Reset Browser Settings: If FormatLocator has changed your homepage or search engine, restore your browser settings to default.
   • Safari: Go to Preferences > General and reset the homepage.
   • Chrome: Open Settings > On Startup, and choose Open the New Tab Page.
   • Firefox: Go to Preferences > Home, and set the home page as desired.
5. Step 5: Monitor for Any Further Issues: After following these steps, keep an eye on your system’s performance and browser behavior. If issues persist, consider running a deeper scan with SpyHunter or other trusted anti-malware tools.

Preventive Measures

To avoid future infections with adware like FormatLocator:

• Be Careful with Downloads: Avoid downloading software from unreliable or suspicious sources. Stick to trusted platforms like official websites or reputable stores.
• Watch Out for Pop-ups: Do not click on pop-ups or ads that appear unexpectedly while browsing.
• Install an Ad-blocker: An ad-blocker can help prevent many unwanted ads from being shown in the first place.
• Keep Software Updated: Ensure that your operating system, web browsers, and all installed software are regularly updated to reduce vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware.

To protect your system from adware like FormatLocator and other threats, we recommend using SpyHunter. Download SpyHunter today and perform a free scan to ensure your system is safe from malicious software. It’s an effective tool for detecting and removing adware, trojans, ransomware, and more, ensuring your system stays clean and secure.