How to remove CrossSign (Mac)

What is CrossSign

CrossSign is a type of adware that has been identified as part of the AdLoad malware family, primarily targeting macOS systems. This rogue application operates by displaying intrusive advertisements and redirecting users to potentially harmful websites. Users often encounter it through deceptive pop-up ads or bundled software installations, especially when downloading applications from unverified sources. Once installed, CrossSign can significantly degrade system performance while also tracking browsing habits, raising serious privacy concerns. Notably, it may collect sensitive information such as personal details and account credentials, which can be monetized by cybercriminals. Removal of CrossSign is crucial to prevent further security issues, and using reputable antivirus software is highly recommended for effective cleanup.

How CrossSign infects Mac computers

CrossSign adware typically infects Mac systems through deceptive tactics that exploit user behavior and vulnerabilities in software distribution. One common method of infection is through fake Adobe Flash Player updates, which are often promoted on scam websites. Users may inadvertently download the adware bundled with legitimate software, especially when using third-party download channels or opting for quick installations without reviewing the included components. Once installed, CrossSign can modify browser settings, deliver intrusive advertisements, and track browsing activities, posing significant privacy risks. The adware’s stealthy nature allows it to operate under the radar, making it crucial for users to remain vigilant and cautious during software installations and online browsing. Effective prevention strategies include downloading software only from trusted sources and carefully inspecting installation options to avoid unwanted additions.

1. Download CrossSign Removal Tool
2. Remove CrossSign from Login Items
3. Remove/Uninstall CrossSign from Applications
4. Remove CrossSign from browsers
5. Reset browser settings
6. Remove CrossSign files and folders
7. Block CrossSign ads and pop-ups
8. How to protect from threats, like CrossSign

Remove CrossSign manually for free

Note: CrossSign sets up to start on macOS startup. Therefore, before starting the removal, perform these steps:

1. Open System Preferences, choose Users & Groups.
2. Choose your account (set up as Current User).
3. Click Login Items tab.
4. Find “CrossSign” entry. Select it, and click the “-“ (minus) button to remove it.

Note 2: CrossSign won’t quit just by closing it, therefor use Force Quit to end the process.

1. Press 3 buttons at the same time: Option, Command, and Esc (Escape). This is similar to Control-Alt-Delete on a Windows PC.
2. Choose CrossSign in the list.
3. Click Force Quit button.

Here is a manual step-by-step tutorial for full CrossSign removal from your computer. This works 99% and was checked with the latest versions of CrossSign installer on operating systems with the latest updates and browser versions.

Remove CrossSign from Applications

Remove CrossSign from Mac:

1. In the Finder sidebar, click Applications.
2. CrossSign might have an Uninstaller. If you see Uninstall CrossSign or CrossSign Uninstaller, double-click it and follow the onscreen instructions.
3. Otherwise, drag CrossSign from the Applications folder to the Trash (located at the end of the Dock).
4. Then choose Finder > Empty Trash.

Cannot uninstall CrossSign

If you can’t uninstall CrossSign using instructions above, or it keeps coming back, you can use free AppCleaner for Mac to remove all residual data and libraries of CrossSign. Follow instructions below:

1. Download free AppCleaner.
2. Drag CrossSign from Applications folder to AppCleaner window.
3. Choose files and folders you want to remove along with CrossSign.
4. Click Delete button.

Remove CrossSign add-on from your browsers

Removing CrossSign from Applications often does not bring the desired effect. It is a browser extension, and it may still be active in Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Here are instructions on how to remove the CrossSign extension from your browsers manually.

Safari:

1. Start Safari on your Mac, click Safari to open drop-down menu and choose Preferences
2. Click Extensions tab.
3. Find CrossSign extension.
4. Click Uninstall button to remove it.

Google Chrome:

1. Start Google Chrome browser
2. In address box type (or copy-paste) chrome://extensions.
3. Find CrossSign extension.
4. Click the trash can icon to remove it.

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Start Mozilla Firefox browser.
2. In address box type (or copy-paste) about:addons.
3. Choose CrossSign extension.
4. Click Disable or Remove button.

Reset browser settings

To finish CrossSign removal, reset your browser settings to make sure, there are no leftover items in browser folders.

Reset Safari:

1. Start Safari on your Mac, click Safari to open drop-down menu and choose Preferences
2. Go to the Privacy section of Safari’s preferences.
3. Click Remove All Website Data button.
4. In the opened window, click Remove Now button to remove data stored by websites in Safari.
5. Go to the Advanced section of Safari’s preferences.
6. Click the Show Develop menu in menu bar option.
7. In the menu, click Develop and select Empty Caches from this menu.
8. Again, go to Safari menu and choose Clear History….
9. Choose to clear all history and click Clear History button.

Reset Google Chrome:

1. Start Google Chrome browser
2. In address box type (or copy-paste) chrome://settings.
3. Scroll down and find Show advanced settings link.
4. Click on it and scroll down to the bottom again.
5. Click Reset settings button and click Reset to confirm.

Reset Mozilla Firefox:

1. Start Mozilla Firefox browser.
2. In address box type (or copy-paste) about:support.
3. Click Refresh Firefox… button.
4. Click Refresh Firefox to confirm.

Remove following files and folders of CrossSign


~/Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/Services/com.CrossSign.service.app
~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.CrossSign.service.plist
/Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/System/com.CrossSign.system
/Library/LaunchDaemons/com.CrossSign.system.plist


Download AdGuard for Mac to block malicious pop-ups, that promote CrossSign

AdGuard is the best ad-blocker, internet filtering, and internet security application for macOS. It can cut out unwanted banners from site pages, block pop-ups, stop redirects, and prevent users from visiting potentially dangerous resources. Use it to stop ads promoting CrossSign in browsers.

Download AdGuard for Mac

How to protect Mac OSX from adware, like CrossSign

Mac OSX is known to be one of the safest operating systems, and for a long time, there was no need for antivirus products for Mac. But with the growing popularity of Mac computers and notebooks and evolving technology, viruses, trojans, adware, toolbars, hijackers, and other malware paved the way for Mac users. We recommend you to use one of the best anti-malware for Mac available — Malwarebytes for Mac.

Download Malwarebytes for Mac