How to remove ReaderUpdate (Mac)

What is ReaderUpdate

ReaderUpdate is a sophisticated piece of malware specifically targeting macOS systems, designed primarily as a loader to introduce additional malicious software onto infected devices. This malware, found in various iterations since 2020, is written in multiple programming languages and is adept at stealthy infiltration, often going undetected by the user. By connecting to its Command and Control server, ReaderUpdate can execute a wide array of harmful commands, leading to the installation of additional threats such as adware, ransomware, or trojans. Its presence on a system can result in severe consequences, including compromised privacy, financial loss, and identity theft. Distributed through deceptive means like phishing emails, fake software updates, and free downloads from unverified sources, it exploits users’ trust in seemingly legitimate applications. To mitigate the risk of infection, it is crucial to rely on reputable antivirus software and practice caution when downloading files or clicking on links from unknown sources. Immediate detection and removal are vital to protect both personal data and system integrity from the potentially devastating effects of ReaderUpdate.

How ReaderUpdate infected your system

ReaderUpdate is a sophisticated malware loader targeting macOS systems, employing various deceptive tactics to infiltrate computers. It primarily spreads through freeware and third-party download sites, where it masquerades as legitimate or trojanized software, such as utility and optimization tools. Additionally, ReaderUpdate leverages phishing and social engineering techniques, tricking users into opening malicious files attached to emails or embedded in social media messages. These files can be disguised in numerous formats, including executables, archives, and documents, making them appear harmless. Once a user interacts with these files, the malware silently embeds itself into the system, connecting to its command and control server to download further malicious payloads. This stealthy infection method allows ReaderUpdate to remain undetected while potentially causing widespread damage, including identity theft and financial losses.

Remove ReaderUpdate from macOS manually

Removing ReaderUpdate from macOS requires a systematic approach that involves a combination of built-in tools, safe computing practices, and sometimes third-party software. Here’s a comprehensive guide to identifying and removing viruses from your Mac, ensuring your system’s integrity and security.

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

1. Disconnect your Mac from the Internet. This prevents the virus from sending data to its creator or downloading more malicious software. Turn off Wi-Fi and unplug any Ethernet cables.

Step 2: Enter Safe Mode

2. Restart your Mac in Safe Mode. Safe Mode performs a check of your startup disk and restricts certain software from automatically loading or opening.
   • For Intel-based Macs: Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key until you see the login window.
   • For Apple Silicon Macs: Turn off your Mac, press and hold the power button until you see the startup options window, select your startup disk, press and hold the Shift key, then click Continue in Safe Mode.

Step 3: Use Built-in Tools for Malware Removal

3. Use Finder to identify and remove suspicious applications.
   • Open Finder, go to the Applications folder, and look for any applications you don’t recognize or didn’t intentionally download.
   • Right-click the suspicious application and select Move to Trash, then empty the Trash.
4. Use macOS built-in malware removal tool (MRT). macOS automatically runs MRT in the background, but you can manually run a malware scan by updating your software.
   • Go to System Preferences > Software Update.
   • Install any available updates, as these often include the latest security improvements and malware definitions.

Step 4: Check and remove ReaderUpdate from Login Items

Note: ReaderUpdate may set 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 suspicious entries. Select it, and click the “-“ (minus) button to remove them.

Step 5: Check and remove ReaderUpdate Malicious Device Profile

Important update: ReaderUpdate can install malicious Device Profile called AdminPrefs or similarly on MacOS, that won’t allow users to make changes to browser search engine and homepage settings. Follow instructions below to remove this profile.

Remove ReaderUpdate profile

1. Go to System Preferences and click on Profiles.
2. In the list of profiles on the left side, choose AdminPrefs or other profile and click on “-” button to remove it.
3. In your case it can be named differently, in this case remove all visible profiles. Check the picture below to see how it looks like.

Step 6: Reset Your Web Browsers

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.

Step 7: Restore from a Backup

8. If the issue persists, consider restoring your Mac from a backup.
   • Use Time Machine or another backup system to restore your Mac to a state before it was infected.
   • Ensure the backup you choose predates the malware infection.

Prevention Tips

• Keep your macOS updated. Regularly check for and install macOS updates to ensure you have the latest security patches.
• Be cautious with downloads and attachments. Only download software from trusted sources like the Mac App Store or official websites.
• Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible.
• Consider enabling the macOS firewall in System Preferences > Security & Privacy.
• Regularly back up your Mac using Time Machine or another backup solution to ensure you can recover your system if needed.

Following these steps should help you remove most viruses from your Mac. If you continue to experience issues, consider seeking help from Apple Support or a professional cybersecurity service.