Hello @NicholasW_Hymes
OnlineManualsPFD is not a legitimate widget but rather a form of malware, specifically a browser hijacker. It is a deceptive program that takes control of your browser settings without your permission to generate advertising revenue.
What OnlineManualsPFD does
- Changes your settings: It will forcefully alter your browser’s homepage, new tab page, and default search engine to a specific website controlled by the hijacker.
- Redirects your traffic: It redirects your search queries and browsing to sponsored or malicious websites, which can expose you to more malware or tech support scams.
- Serves unwanted ads: You may be flooded with unwanted pop-up ads and other invasive advertising.
- Tracks your data: This type of malware is designed to collect your browsing-related data, which can lead to privacy issues.
How you get infected
- Bundled software: This malware often comes bundled with free software or apps that you download from third-party sites.
- Deceptive pop-ups: Fake alerts or pop-up ads can trick you into downloading and installing the malicious program.
How to remove OnlineManualsPFD
- Run a malware scan : Use a reputable anti-malware tool, like Malwarebytes for Mac, to scan for and remove the malicious software and all its associated files.
- Delete suspicious browser extensions: Check your browser’s extensions or add-ons and remove any that you do not recognize.
- Reset your browser settings: Reset your browser to its default settings. This will undo the changes made by the hijacker.
- Remove any malicious profiles (macOS): On macOS, check for and delete any unwanted system profiles related to the malware. You can find these in
System Settings > Privacy & Security > Profiles.
- Uninstall suspicious applications: Look in your Applications folder for any suspicious programs that may have installed the malware and move them to the Trash.
(source AI Mode)
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If you’ve encountered “OnlineManualsPFD” pop-ups or applications on a Mac, you likely have a browser hijacker from the Adload malware family. This adware uses deceptive tactics, like promising access to free online manuals, to install itself on your computer. Websites like MalwareTips have created specific removal guides for similar infections on Mac.
How the malware affects your Mac
- Browser redirection: Your search engine and homepage will be changed without your permission, directing you to unfamiliar and potentially malicious sites.
- Intrusive ads: The malware generates pop-ups and other aggressive advertisements that disrupt your browsing.
- Fake virus alerts: You may see fake “critical virus alerts” designed to scare you into installing more unwanted software.
- Privacy risks: Adload malware tracks your online activity and may collect personal information, which can be sold to third parties.
- System slow-down: You may notice your Mac running more slowly than usual as the adware consumes system resources.
Steps to remove the malware from your Mac
- Stop malicious processes: Open your Mac’s Activity Monitor (Finder > Go > Utilities). Look for suspicious processes consuming an unusual amount of CPU or RAM. When you find one, click the “X” icon and choose Force Quit.
- Remove unwanted applications: Open your Applications folder (Finder > Go > Applications). Search for any recently installed or unknown applications, such as “OnlineManuals App,” and drag them to the Trash. Right-click the Trash and select Empty Trash.
- Check for malicious profiles: Malicious software can install a configuration profile to maintain control of your system. To remove it, go to System Settings > Profiles. If you find any profiles you didn’t create, select it and click the minus (“–”) button to remove it.
- Remove malicious browser extensions:
- Safari: Go to Safari > Settings > Extensions. Uninstall any extensions that look unfamiliar. Then, under the General tab, verify that your homepage is correct.
- Chrome: Click the three dots in the top-right corner and go to Extensions. Remove any extensions you don’t recognize.
- Use an antivirus or anti-malware tool: To be certain all files are gone, run a scan with a dedicated malware removal tool for Mac.
- Malwarebytes for Mac is a popular and effective tool for removing adware and other Mac malware.
- Combo Cleaner is another reputable option for detecting and cleaning up Mac infections.
- Clear your browser data: Even after removing the extensions, malicious data may linger. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies to remove any remaining traces. In Safari, go to History > Clear History and select All History.
- Reset your browser settings: For a complete reset, some guides recommend resetting your browser to its default settings, which will also remove any unwanted changes
(source AI Mode)
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How to install and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Mac
https://malwaretips.com/blogs/run-a-scan-with-malwarebytes/
Mac Malware Removal Help & Support
https://forums.malwarebytes.com/forum/165-mac-malware-removal-help-support/
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How to Remove Malware from Your Mac [Virus Removal Gudie]
https://malwaretips.com/blogs/remove-mac-os-x-virus/
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Virus Protection Promise is a virus removal service provided by Norton experts. If they are unable to remove the virus from your Windows, MacOS, Android or iOS device, you will be entitled to a refund even if no other refund right applies.
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For more information, see Terms & Conditions.
https://support.norton.com/sp/en/us/home/current/solutions/v62458994