Is Mac Cleanup Pro a Virus? How to Completely Remove It?

Mac Cleanup Pro: A Guide to Removing This Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP)

Mac Cleanup Pro often appears on Macs without user consent, prompting users to pay for premium features. This potentially unwanted program (PUP) is more trouble than it's worth, displaying adware and potentially impacting system performance. This guide details how to completely remove Mac Cleanup Pro and prevent its return.

Understanding Mac Cleanup Pro

Mac Cleanup Pro is classified as a PUP, typically installed surreptitiously alongside other software downloads. Its primary issue is the deceptive attempt to sell a largely unnecessary paid version, coupled with the installation of adware.

How Mac Cleanup Pro Infiltrates Your Mac

Mac Cleanup Pro often arrives bundled with other downloads, even from seemingly legitimate sources. This makes identifying its origin challenging.

Manual Removal of Mac Cleanup Pro

This process involves several steps to ensure complete removal:

1. Remove from Login Items:

1. Access System Settings (Apple logo > System Settings).
2. Select Login Items.
3. Locate Mac Cleanup Pro under "Open at Login" and click the "-" icon to remove it.

2. Remove from Applications Folder:

1. Open Finder and select Applications.
2. Locate Mac Cleanup Pro (use the keyboard shortcut "M" to quickly find it).
3. Drag Mac Cleanup Pro to the Trash.
4. Empty the Trash.

3. Remove Browser Extensions:

Remove any Mac Cleanup Pro extensions from your browsers (Safari, Chrome, Firefox). The process varies slightly per browser, but generally involves accessing extensions settings and uninstalling the unwanted extension.

• Safari: Safari > Settings > Extensions > Untick and Uninstall.

• Chrome: Chrome > Puzzle Icon (Extensions) > Manage Extensions > Toggle off and Remove.

• Firefox: Firefox > Settings > Extensions & Themes > Toggle off > Three Dots Icon > Remove.

4. Reset Browser Settings: Resetting browser settings to defaults helps remove any lingering traces of Mac Cleanup Pro. Instructions vary by browser (detailed steps are provided in the original text for Safari, Chrome, and Firefox).

Automatic Removal with MacKeeper (Optional)

MacKeeper's Smart Uninstaller can automate the removal process. (Instructions for using MacKeeper's Smart Uninstaller are included in the original text and can be added here if desired).

Preventing Future Infections

Avoid downloading software from untrusted sources or using download managers.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove Mac Cleanup Pro and protect your Mac from similar PUPs. Consider using a reputable antivirus solution for ongoing protection.

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