How to remove AppWinner (Mac)

What is AppWinner

AppWinner is a type of malicious software that infects Mac computers. It is usually disguised as a legitimate application or software program, tricking users into downloading and installing it onto their systems. Once installed, AppWinner can cause a variety of harmful effects, such as displaying unwanted advertisements, collecting personal information, and even stealing sensitive data.

AppWinner typically infects Mac computers through deceptive tactics, such as bundling itself with other software downloads or disguising itself as a fake software update. Users may unknowingly download and install AppWinner when they are not careful about the sources of their software downloads or when they click on misleading pop-up ads. Once installed, AppWinner can be difficult to remove and may require the use of specialized anti-malware tools to fully eradicate from the system. Users are advised to be cautious when downloading software and to regularly update their security software to protect against threats like AppWinner.

AppWinner Automated Removal Tools

Solution for Mac user

Download Spyhunter for Mac

SpyHunter for Mac is a comprehensive cybersecurity software developed by EnigmaSoft Limited, tailored specifically for macOS. It’s designed to offer advanced protection against a wide array of threats specifically targeting the Mac ecosystem, including malware, adware, spyware, and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs).

Manual AppWinner Removal Guide

Below are step-by-step instructions to remove AppWinner from Mac computers. Follow this steps carefully and uninstall it from Applications, remove malicious browser extensions from browsers and remove files and folders belonging to AppWinner.

Uninstall AppWinner or apps related to AppWinner from Mac

1. Click on the Apple menu at the top left corner of your screen and select System Preferences.
2. In System Preferences, click on Users & Groups.
3. Click on your user account in the left panel. Unlock the lock icon at the bottom left by entering your password if necessary.
4. Click on the Login Items tab at the top of the window to see a list of apps that open automatically when you log in.
5. Find AppWinner, select it, and click the “-“ (minus) button below the list to remove it.
6. Close the System Preferences window after making your changes.

Uninstall AppWinner from macOS:

1. On the Finder menu click Go;
2. On the right side choose Applications;
3. Locate AppWinner or apps potentially related to it;
4. Move it to trash bin;
5. Follow on-screen instructions;

Remove AppWinner malicious extension

Here are detailed instructions for removing malicious browser extensions related to AppWinner from Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari:

Safari (macOS)

1. Open Safari.
2. Open Safari Preferences from the menu bar.
3. Switch to the Extensions tab.
4. Locate AppWinner.
5. Uninstall extensions by clicking Uninstall.
6. Confirm the uninstallation if prompted.
7. Restart Safari (Optional).

Google Chrome (macOS)

1. Open Google Chrome.
2. Access Extensions by clicking on the three vertical dots, hover over More tools, and click Extensions.
3. Find AppWinner.
4. Remove extensions by clicking on Remove.
5. Confirm Removal by clicking Remove in the dialog box.
6. Close and restart Chrome (Optional).

Mozilla Firefox (macOS)

1. Open Mozilla Firefox.
2. Access Add-ons and Themes via the menu or by pressing Ctrl + Shift + A.
3. Select suspicious extensions in the Add-ons Manager.
4. Locate AppWinner.
5. Remove extensions by clicking on the three dots and selecting Remove.
6. Confirm and restart Firefox (Optional).

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully remove the AppWinner extension from the respective browsers. If you encounter any issues, ensure that you are using the latest version of the browser, as the process may vary slightly with different versions.

How to reset browser settings?

Resetting browser settigs can help resolve issues with the browser’s performance or functionality. It will restore browsers to their default settings, but it’s important to note that this action may clear your bookmarks, history, and saved passwords. Make sure to back up any important data before proceeding.

Reset Safari:

1. Open Safari.
2. Select Safari menu.
3. Choose Reset Safari….
4. Click Reset button.

Reset Google Chrome:

1. Launch the Chrome browser on your computer.
2. Click on the three vertical dots in the upper right corner of the browser window and select Settings from the dropdown menu.
3. In the Settings menu, scroll down and click on Advanced to expand more options.
4. Scroll down to the Reset and clean up section.
5. Click on Restore settings to their original defaults.
6. A prompt will appear, explaining what will be reset. Click on Reset settings to confirm.
7. Close and reopen Chrome to complete the reset process.

Reset Mozilla Firefox:

1. Start the Firefox browser on your computer.
2. Click on the three horizontal lines in the top right corner of the browser to open the menu.
3. Click on Help (a question mark icon) at the bottom of the menu.
4. In the Help menu, click on Troubleshooting Information.
5. Click on Refresh Firefox at the top right of the new tab. This will open a dialog box explaining what will be reset.
6. Click Refresh Firefox in the dialog box to confirm.
7. Firefox will close and reset. When it’s done, a window will list the information that was imported. Click Finish and Firefox will reopen.

How to block unwanted pop-up ads and notifications, that promote AppWinner

In order to block pop-ups that promote AppWinner you can use AdGuard. AdGuard is a comprehensive ad blocking software designed to remove ads from web pages, block tracking cookies, and protect users from malware. It works across various devices and platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. AdGuard is not just limited to blocking ads; it also offers features like parental controls and privacy protection, ensuring a safer and more streamlined browsing experience. It’s particularly popular among users who seek to enhance their online privacy and reduce distractions while surfing the web.

Download AdGuard for Mac

How to prevent malware infection?

As many potentially unwanted programs, AppWinner uses “bundling” to get installed on personal computers. Let me explain how it works. Malware is bound to freeware, so it can be installed with this freeware. To avoid malware installation, we recommend you not to download suspicious software from unknown sources and try to use only trusted websites. Be attentive while installing those programs. Also try to use custom/advanced setup options to disable malware installation. But better to download only licensed software from official websites. If you still want to download such installers, make sure to uncheck or decline all unwanted offers.