Introduction

If you’re a Mac user and have been experiencing unwanted ads, redirects, or changes to your web browser settings, you may have fallen victim to an adware called ChipsOverallKind. Adware is a type of software that displays intrusive advertisements and may gather your browsing data for targeted advertising. Fortunately, removing ChipsOverallKind from your Mac is possible by following some straightforward steps. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of removing ChipsOverallKind from your Mac and restoring your browser settings.

What is ChipsOverallKind?

ChipsOverallKind is classified as potentially unwanted software or adware. It sneaks onto your Mac without your knowledge and injects numerous advertisements into the websites you visit. Additionally, it alters your browser settings to redirect your search queries to sponsored websites, leading to a frustrating and disruptive browsing experience.

Signs of ChipsOverallKind Adware

To identify if your Mac is infected with ChipsOverallKind adware, watch out for the following signs:

1. Frequent Advertisements: You notice an unusually high number of ads appearing on websites where they didn’t exist before.
2. Browser Redirects: Your browser search queries are redirected to unfamiliar and potentially suspicious websites.
3. Sluggish Performance: Your Mac’s performance might slow down due to the adware’s activities.
4. Unwanted Browser Extensions: You might find new browser extensions or add-ons that you didn’t install.

ChipsOverallKind typically infiltrates Mac systems through software bundles, deceptive download links, or fake updates. Once installed, it integrates with your web browsers, such as Safari, Chrome, or Firefox, and injects ads into web pages using pop-ups, banners, and in-text ads. The adware may also modify browser settings to redirect your searches to sponsored sites, generating revenue for the creators through pay-per-click schemes. These ads and redirects not only hinder your browsing experience but also expose you to potentially harmful websites.

“ChipsOverallKind adware can seriously affect your privacy, your computer’s performance and security.” – Myantispyware

How ChipsOverallKind Infects Mac

ChipsOverallKind adware can infect your Mac through various means. Some common methods of infection include:

• Software bundles: ChipsOverallKind may be bundled with legitimate software that you download from unreliable sources. When you install the desired software, the adware gets installed alongside it without your knowledge.
• Deceptive download links: Clicking on malicious ads or downloading files from untrustworthy websites can lead to the installation of ChipsOverallKind on your Mac.
• Fake updates: Some websites may display fake update notifications for popular software, tricking you into downloading and installing ChipsOverallKind or other malware.

It’s important to exercise caution while downloading software or clicking on links to avoid falling victim to adware like ChipsOverallKind.

How to Remove ChipsOverallKind Adware

Removing ChipsOverallKind from your Mac requires a combination of manual steps and the use of reliable removal tools. Follow the steps below to effectively remove ChipsOverallKind from your Mac and restore your browser settings.

1. Remove Profiles Created by ChipsOverallKind

ChipsOverallKind may install a configuration profile on your Mac to block changes made to your browser settings. To remove this profile:

1. Click the System Preferences icon ( ) in the Dock or choose Apple menu ( ) > System Preferences.
2. In System Preferences, click Profiles and select the profile associated with ChipsOverallKind.
3. Click the minus button ( – ) located at the bottom-left of the Profiles screen to remove the profile.

Note: If you do not see Profiles in the System Preferences, it means there are no profiles installed on your Mac, which is normal.

2. Uninstall ChipsOverallKind Associated Software

To get rid of the adware, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), and browser hijackers associated with ChipsOverallKind, follow these steps:

1. Open the Finder and click on Applications.
2. Carefully browse through the list of installed apps and remove all dubious and unknown software.
3. For programs you do not recognize, run an internet search to determine if they are PUPs, browser hijackers, or adware.
4. Right-click on the suspicious program and select Move to Trash. Once done, empty the Trash.

3. Remove ChipsOverallKind Related Files and Folders

To completely remove ChipsOverallKind from your Mac, you need to locate and delete the related files and folders. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Finder and click on Applications.
2. Use the shortcut CMD + SHIFT + . to show hidden files. Press once to show hidden files and again to hide them.
3. Alternatively, you can open Terminal by navigating to Finder -> Applications -> Utilities -> Terminal. In Terminal, paste the following command: defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles YES. Press Enter.
4. Hold the Option/alt key, then right-click on the Finder icon in the dock and click Relaunch.
5. Click on the Finder icon, select Go, and click Go to Folder….
6. Enter the following paths one by one and delete any files or folders associated with ChipsOverallKind:

• /Library/LaunchDaemons/com.ChipsOverallKind.system.plist
• ~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.ChipsOverallKind.service.plist
• /Library/Application Support/.(RANDOM)/System/com.ChipsOverallKind.system
• ~/Library/Application Support/.(RANDOM)/Services/com.ChipsOverallKind.service.app

Note: Replace “(RANDOM)” with a random string of characters.

4. Remove ChipsOverallKind from Safari, Chrome, Firefox

To completely remove ChipsOverallKind from your web browsers, follow these instructions for each browser:

Google Chrome

1. Click on the three dots menu button at the top right corner of the Chrome window.
2. Go to More tools and then Extensions.
3. Click Remove to uninstall any extension related to ChipsOverallKind.
4. Confirm the removal by clicking Remove in the dialog box.

If you’re still experiencing problems, you can try resetting Chrome settings by following these steps:

1. Click on the menu button and select Settings.
2. Scroll down and click on Advanced to expand the advanced settings.
3. Scroll down further and click on Reset settings.
4. Confirm the reset by clicking Reset settings in the dialog box.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Click on the menu button and select Add-ons.
2. Go to the Extensions tab.
3. To uninstall an add-on, click on the Remove button next to it.

If you’re still experiencing problems, you can try resetting Firefox settings by following these steps:

1. Type about:support in the address bar and press Enter.
2. Click on the Refresh Firefox button to reset Firefox to its default state.

Safari

1. On the top menu, select Safari, then Preferences.
2. Click on the Extensions tab.
3. Select the extension you want to delete and click the Uninstall button next to it.

Tips to Prevent Infection

To protect your Mac from adware like ChipsOverallKind and prevent future infections, here are some tips to follow:

1. Only download software from official sources or trusted third-party websites. Avoid downloading from peer-to-peer (P2P) networks or free file hosting websites.
2. Keep your operating system and software up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates. These updates often include security fixes that can prevent malware infections.
3. Be cautious of suspicious emails or attachments. Hackers often use social engineering tactics to trick users into downloading malware. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown senders.
4. Use strong and unique passwords for all your accounts. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, and consider using a password manager to help you generate and store strong passwords.
5. Use a reputable ad blocker. Ad blockers allow you to browse sites without ads, eliminating the possibility of clicking on something malicious and preventing it from being downloaded to your machine.
6. Consider paying for premium versions of popular services. Many internet services offer ad-free experiences if you purchase a premium subscription. This helps ensure that malicious adware cannot reach you.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection from ChipsOverallKind and other types of malware.

Conclusion

ChipsOverallKind is an adware that can disrupt your browsing experience and compromise your privacy and security. However, with the proper knowledge and tools, you can remove it from your Mac and restore your browser settings. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively eliminate ChipsOverallKind and prevent future infections. Remember to stay vigilant when downloading software and keep your system updated to protect yourself from adware and other malware threats.