A newfound disgusting virus ‘nearbyme.io’ is roaming in the Mac systems these days. It follows the footprints of Mac threats that are ill-famed for eroding browser customizations of the victim.
This cyber threat definitely poses a significant risk because it redirects users to malicious sites. Moreover, the legacy of nearbyme.io adware means it’s deeply embedded in the Mac ecosystem.
So, its removal is a daunting task! But fret not! There is a beacon of hope between the chaos.
If you are armed with the right techniques, like the manual removal method and resetting your default browser, you can reclaim control of your browsing experience.
More importantly, if you have an antivirus (like Combo Cleaner Removal Tool) up in the sleeves, it can do the rest of the job!
So, let’s dive in and rid your system of this nefarious invader once and for all!
Here we go!
What Exactly is the nearbyme.io Redirect Virus?
Nearbyme.io is a shameful virus or a URL pushed by a sneaky app that sneaks into systems and takes over Safari, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox.
It then churns out fake internet traffic using a shady redirect scheme. Strictly speaking, nearbyme.io is a cybercrime puzzle piece that enables threat actors to profit by commandeering web browsers on many Macs.
Yep, you heard that right! They’re using it to make a quick buck. Moreover, nearbyme.io virus messes with the default web settings, like your favorite search engine and homepage, without asking for permission.
So, you end up constantly visiting nearbyme.io or its clone site m.nearbyme.io instead of seeing what you want.
How Do nearbyme.io Enters Into the Mac?
Nearbyme.io is a potentially unwanted program (PUP) or adware that inadvertently installed on your Mac device. It usually gets installed through software bundling, where it comes bundled with other free software that users download from the internet.
The Mac users unknowingly agree to install Nearbyme.io during the installation process of another software without realizing it. This method allows Nearbyme.io to enter Mac systems surreptitiously.
In this way, it starts taking advantage of users who do not pay close attention during the installation process.
How to Remove nearbyme.io Virus From Mac?
The following sections explain the process and offer guidance on eliminating the unwelcome intrusion of nearbyme.io across various system layers.
Without any further exaggeration, let’s begin with the solutions.
1. Nearbyme.io redirect virus manual removal for Mac
Follow the steps given below to kick this malicious application to the curb.
Important Note: Make sure you follow the instructions in the given order. Otherwise, you’ll not get the end goal of this method!
Step 1: Go > Utilities
- Open up the Go menu in your Mac’s Finder bar.
- Then, choose Utilities as demonstrated in the image below.
Step 2: > Activity Monitor
- Find the Activity Monitor icon on the Utilities screen.
- Double-click on it.
Step 3: Remove Suspicious Processes
- Open the Activity Monitor app.
- Look for any suspicious processes.
- Focus on unfamiliar resource-intensive entries.
Trust your heart or intuitions as the name may not directly indicate the threat.
- Then, select the culprit.
- Click on the Stop icon in the upper left-hand corner.
Step 4: Force Quit It!
- When a dialog appears, select the Force Quit option.
This dialog asks if you’re sure you want to quit the troublesome process.
Step 5: > Go to Folder
To access the Go to Folder option:
- Click on the Go menu icon in the Finder.
- Select “Go to Folder.”
Pro Tip: Alternatively, you can use the Command-Shift-G keyboard shortcut.
Step 6: Carefully Enter a Query!
- Enter “/Library/LaunchAgents” in the folder search dialog box.
- Then, click on the Go button.
Step 7: Examine LaunchAgents Folder for Malicious Files:
- Open the LaunchAgents folder.
- Look for suspicious items. To find the culprit, follow the following advices:
- Malware-generated file names may not indicate malicious intent.
- Focus on recently added entities that seem unusual.
- Some common mainstream Mac infections include:
- com.pcv.hlpramc.plist
- com.updater.mcy.plist
- com.avickUpd.plist
- com.msp.agent.plist
- Hence, if you find unfamiliar files, drag them to the Trash.
Step 8: Enter String!
- Once more, utilize the Go to Folder lookup feature.
- There, you need to enter “~/Library/Application Support” (with the tilde symbol at the beginning of the path).
- It will navigate you to the designated folder.
Step 9: Identify and Remove Suspicious Folders in Application Support:
- Open the Application Support directory.
- To find the suspicious folders in Application Support, follow the following:
- Look for recently created suspicious folders.
- Check for folder names unrelated to Apple products or known installations.
- Examples of known-malicious folder names include:
- UtilityParze
- ProgressSite
- IdeaShared
- If you find any, send them to the Trash.
Step 10: Navigate to LaunchAgents Folder:
- Open the Go to Folder search area.
- Enter “~/Library/LaunchAgents” (include the tilde character).
- Press Enter or click Go to proceed.
Step 11: Remove Nearbyme.io Related Items:
- Check the LaunchAgents in the current user’s Home directory.
- Search for suspicious items associated with the nearbyme.io redirect virus.
(Consider the logic highlighted in previous subsections.)
- Drag any suspects to the Trash for removal.
Step 12: Navigate to LaunchDaemons > Enter String:
- Open the Go to Folder search field.
- Enter “/Library/LaunchDaemons.”
- Press Enter or click Go to proceed.
Step 13: Identify and Remove Persistence Files in LaunchDaemons:
- Navigate to the LaunchDaemons path. To find malware files, follow the following:
- Look for files used by the malware for persistence. Examples include:
- com.pplauncher.plist
- com.startup.plist
- com.ExpertModuleSearchDaemon.plist
- Delete any suspicious files immediately.
Step 14: Access Applications via Finder:
- Open Finder.
- Click on the Go menu icon.
- Select “Applications” from the list.
Step 15: Remove Suspicious App from Applications:
- Locate an out-of-place app in the Applications folder.
- Move it to the Trash.
Enter your admin password if prompted for confirmation.
Step 16: >System Preferences
- Expand the Apple menu.
- After this, select System Preferences.
Step 17: Users & Groups > Login Items
- Proceed to Users & Groups.
- Now, click on the Login Items tab.
- Open the list of startup items. (These items display when your Mac system just startup.)
- Find the potentially unwanted app.
- Click the “−” (minus) button to remove it.
Step 18: Remove Malicious Profile from System Preferences:
- Open System Preferences and select Profiles.
- Check the left-hand sidebar for malicious items. Examples include TechSignalSearch, MainSearchPlatform, AdminPrefs, and Safari Settings.
- Now, select the offending profile.
- Click the minus sign (-) given at the bottom to eliminate it.
If adware has snuck into your Mac, it might still have control over your default web browser even after you’ve removed the main app and its scattered components.
So, follow the browser cleanup steps given below to tackle the aftermath of the nearbyme.io attack.
2. Removing nearbyme.io virus in Mac’s web browsers
Let’s reset the web browser settings that were hijacked by the nearbyme.io virus to their default values. Here’s an overview of the steps to complete this procedure:
However, consider this before proceeding…
“This method will remove most of your customizations, browsing history, and temporary data stored by websites. However, it’s necessary to terminate the malicious interference.”
1. Remove nearbyme.io virus from Safari
Step 1: Safari > Preferences
- Open your browser and navigate to the Safari menu.
- From there, choose Preferences from the drop-down list.
Step 2: Enable Develop Menu in Safari Preferences
- Once you have opened Safari and go to Preferences, click on the Advanced tab.
- Enable the option labeled “Show Develop menu in menu bar.”
Step 3: Empty Caches via Safari Develop Menu
Now, the Develop entry will be added to the Safari menu.
- Expand the option > Develop.
- Select “Empty Caches.”
Step 4: Clear Safari History:
- Open the Safari menu.
- Choose History.
- Click on “Clear History” in the drop-down list.
Step 5: Prompt to Clear Safari History:
- Safari will prompt a dialog.
- Choose “All History” for maximum effect.
- Click “Clear History” to confirm and exit.
Step 6: Manage Website Data in Safari Preferences:
- Return to Safari Preferences.
- Select the Privacy tab.
- Locate and click “Manage Website Data.”
Step 7: Remove Website Data in Safari Preferences:
- After clicking “Manage Website Data,” a dialog will appear.
- This dialog lists websites storing data about your Internet activities.
- It also explains that removing data may log you out of some services and affect website behavior.
- If you’re okay with this, click “Remove All.”
Last but not least, don’t forget to restart your Safari browser.
2. Remove nearbyme.io in Google Chrome
Step 1: Access Chrome Settings:
- Open Chrome.
- Click the Customize and control Google Chrome (⁝) icon.
- Choose Settings from the drop-down menu.
Step 2: Navigate to Advanced Settings in Chrome:
- After getting to the Chrome Settings, select Advanced.
- Scroll down to the Reset settings section.
Step 3: Confirm Chrome Reset:
- Confirm Chrome reset on dialog that will pop-up on your screen.
- Once resetting is completed, relaunch the Chrome browser.
- Check for malware activity (if left any).
3. Remove nearbyme.io from Mozilla Firefox
Step 1: Access Firefox Troubleshooting Information:
- Open Firefox.
- Go to Help.
- Select Troubleshooting Information.
Alternatively, type “about:support” in the URL bar and press Enter.
Step 2: Refresh Firefox:
- On the Troubleshooting Information screen, locate the Refresh Firefox button.
- Click on it to initiate the refresh process.
Step 3: Confirm Changes and Restart Firefox:
- Confirm the intended changes.
- Restart Firefox to apply them.
So, that’s all for resetting Mozilla Firefox in order to remove Nearbyme.io Mac Virus Redirect.
3. Remove nearbyme.io malware with Combo Cleaner
Now, let’s explore another way to remove the nearbyme.io virus using the Combo Cleaner Removal Tool.
But before that, let’s find out what a Combo Cleaner Removal Tool is and why to use it.
What is a Combo Cleaner Removal Tool?
Combo Cleaner is a Mac maintenance and security application. It is a convenient tool for detecting and removing the nearbyme.io virus.
The best part of this tool is that it offers several advantages over manual cleanup.
For example, hourly virus definition updates and the ability to identify even the latest Mac infections accurately is not available anywhere else.
Moreover, the automatic solution will easily locate the main files of the malware buried deep within the system structure.
So, finding those files would be like searching for a needle in a haystack without the help of the Combo Cleaner Removal Tool.
Steps to Remove Nearbyme.io Virus With Combo Cleaner
Here is a step-by-step picture of how to use Combo Cleaner Removal Tool to get rid of hazardous viruses like Nearbyme.io:
Step 1: Install Combo Cleaner
- Download the Combo Cleaner installer.
- Double-click the combocleaner.dmg file.
- Follow the prompts to install the tool on your Mac.
From Where to Download It?
The link to download the Combo Cleaner Removal Tool is given here. Just follow the link and scroll down.
You’ll find the download option of this tool (just like the one demonstrated in the following picture), click on that. Simple!
Step 2: Update Malware Database
- Open the app from your Launchpad.
- Allow it to run an update of the malware signature database.
- This ensures it can identify the latest threats.
Step 3: Initiate Combo Scan
- Click the Start Combo Scan button.
(This will check your Mac for malicious activity and performance issues.)
Step 4: Review Scan Results
- Examine the scan results.
- If the report indicates “No Threats,” you’re on the right track with manual cleaning.
- Proceed to tidy up the web browser as instructed above, as it may still be affected by the malware attack’s after-effects.
Step 5: Remove Detected Threats
- If Combo Cleaner detects malicious code, click the Remove Selected Items button.
Plus Point of Combo Cleaner: Let the utility remove the nearbyme.io threat along with any other viruses, PUPs (potentially unwanted programs), or junk files that don’t belong on your Mac.
Step 6: Browser-Level Troubleshooting
- Make sure the malicious apps or viruses are uninstalled.
- If your preferred browser is affected, refer to the previous section of this tutorial to restore hassle-free web surfing.
Did you feel this tool is super easy to use? I found that the Combo Cleaner tool is really user-friendly!
4. Use Malwarebytes to remove Nearbyme.io browser hijacker
What is Malwarebytes?
Malwarebytes for Mac is a cybersecurity tool designed to detect and remove malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs from Mac computers.
It provides real-time protection against threats, as well as on-demand scanning to keep your Mac secure.
Steps to Use Malwarebytes
In this fourth method, run a scan with Malwarebytes for Mac to locate and eliminate the malicious program – nearbyme.io.
Step 1: Download Malwarebytes Free.
To download Malwarebytes for Mac, simply click the link provided here:
Step 2: Double-click on the Malwarebytes setup file.
Once Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click the setup file to begin the installation process.
Typically, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder by default.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
- When the installation starts, you’ll encounter the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer.
- Click “Continue” to proceed.
- Follow the prompts to complete the installation process.
- Once the installation is finished, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome screen.
- Click the “Get started” button to begin using the program.
Step 4: Select Computer Type
- On the Malwarebytes Welcome screen, choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on.
- Click either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” to proceed.
Step 5: Select “Use Malwarebytes Free”.
- After selecting the computer type, you’ll be prompted to choose between Malwarebytes Free and Premium versions.
- Click on “Use Malwarebytes Free” to proceed with cleaning up the computer.
Step 6: Click on “Scan”.
- Click on the “Scan” button in Malwarebytes.
The program will automatically update the antivirus database.
It will then begin scanning your computer for Nearbyme.io malware.
Step 7: Wait for the scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for the Nearbyme.io browser hijacker and other malicious programs. So, this process may take a few minutes.
You can feel free to do something else while the scan is running!
However, periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Step 8: Review Malwarebytes Scan Results
- After the scan completes, you’ll see a screen displaying the malware infections detected by Malwarebytes.
- To remove the Nearbyme.io malware and any other detected threats, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Step 9: Restart computer
- Malwarebytes will remove all detected malicious files.
- To finish the malware removal process, you need to restart your Mac computer (This step will be prompted by Malwarebytes).
- Once the malware removal process is complete, close Malwarebytes.
Now, you can proceed with the rest of the instructions as needed.
Now, you should get peace inside that your Mac system is secure from the nearbyme.io redirect pop-up.
If you’re still facing issues removing a malicious program from your computer, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum. We’re here to help you out!
Is Nearbyme.io Really A Dangerous Malware?
Yes! Nearbyme.io is really a dangerous malware.
What’s sneaky about this virus is that there are advertising network APIs lurking in the background that quietly add the final touch to its bad scheme.
Another confusing aspect is that every redirect leads to a legitimate landing page in the browser, specifically Bing.com custom search results. When someone ends up on Bing, it looks harmless even though they’ve been forcibly redirected.
Remember, nearbyme.io is a stubborn virus because it has persistent features. It quietly adds a Mac configuration profile using a command line tool.
This profile sets incorrect browser settings that remain even after removing the malicious code.
That’s why successfully addressing this aspect of the nearbyme.io threat is the first step towards completing the Mac cleanup process.
Tips to Stay Safe From the Nearbyme.io Virus
Here are a few tricks and tactics that will help you to stay safe from the Nearbyme.io virus in the future:
1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
It’s crucial to have a reliable antivirus and keep it updated to stay protected against the latest cyber threats.
We’re big fans of Combo Cleaner and Malwarebytes Premium. We use them on all our devices—Windows, Mac, and mobile.
Combo Cleaner and Malwarebytes works alongside your regular antivirus. Moreover, they can fill in any security gaps and offer extra protection against sneaky threats.
2. Choose strong passwords.
The best practice to avoid nearbyme.io adware is to create strong and unique passwords for all your accounts. Also, avoid personal information or easily guessable words.
Whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts for added security.
3. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
Always keep your operating system and apps are always up to date. Whenever there’s an update available for your device, make sure to download and install it promptly.
These updates frequently contain essential security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.
4. Be careful when installing programs and apps.
Always be vigilant when installing software and pay attention to installation screens and license agreements.
Try to opt for custom or advanced installation options to reveal any third-party software being installed alongside.
Plus, take caution at every stage of the process and understand what you’re agreeing to before clicking “Next.”
5. Be alert for people trying to trick you.
Remain alert across all your communication platforms—email, phone, messenger, and other applications.
Be cautious of anyone trying to trick you into clicking on links or responding to messages.
Remember, it’s simple to spoof phone numbers, so even familiar names or numbers don’t guarantee trustworthy messages.
6. Backup your data.
Backup is better than a headache. So, back up your data regularly and verify that you can restore it when needed.
You can do this manually using an external HDD or USB stick, or use backup software for automatic backups.
This is also the best defense against ransomware. If you suspect your computer is infected with malware, never connect the backup drive to it.
7. Be careful where you click.
To remove Nearbyme.io Hijacker from Safari, exercise caution when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
8. Don’t try to use pirated software.
Steer clear of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software. They can compromise your data and privacy (and sometimes both).
If you take these precautions, they will help safeguard you from many of the unpleasant surprises that arise while using the web.
For further guidelines, you can watch this amazing YouTube video to kick out the nearbyme.io adware from your Mac computer.
Looking for more ways to keep your Mac secure? Check out our comprehensive guide on how to remove the fuq virus on Mac for additional tips and techniques!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the symptoms of my Mac system having nearbyme.io hijacker?
Here are a few symptoms of having nearbyme.io hijacker in your Mac system:
- Redirects Safari, Chrome, and Firefox to the nearbyme.io site.
- Adds sponsored content to search results.
- Causes system slowdown.
- Presence of unwanted browser extensions or toolbars, particularly in Safari, Chrome, or Firefox.
- Sudden appearance of pop-up ads, banners, or in-text hyperlinks on websites that didn’t previously display them.
- Changes to your browser’s homepage, default search engine, or new tab page without your consent.
- Increased occurrence of browser crashes or freezes.
- Unwanted modifications to your browser settings that you did not authorize.
- Difficulty in reverting browser settings back to their original state.
- Unexplained changes in the behavior of your browser, such as opening multiple tabs or windows automatically.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to scan your Mac with reputable antivirus or antimalware software. Combo Cleaner will help you detect and remove the Nearbyme.io hijacker.
2. I’m dealing with a malware, m.nearbyme.io. Is it the same as nearbyme.io?
Yes! It’s a clone of the nearbyme.io malware. A few other related domains of the nearbyme.io malware are r.a9g.io, searchmarquis.com, searchbaron.com, searchitnow.info, and searchsnow.com.
You can use the similar methods of removing nearbyme.io virus for removing m.nearbyme.io like malwares.
3. How to remove Nearbyme.io from Safari or Chrome if nothing works?
If nothing works in your case, try uninstalling bad or unwanted extension from your web browsers. You can follow the following steps:
Removing Nearbyme.io from Safari:
- Open Safari and go to the Safari menu.
- Choose Preferences from the drop-down list.
- Select the Extensions tab.
- Review the list of installed extensions for any suspicious ones related to Nearbyme.io.
- Click on the unwanted extension to select it.
- Press the Uninstall button to remove the extension from Safari.
- Confirm the action if prompted.
Removing Nearbyme.io from Chrome:
- Open Chrome and click on the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner.
- Select More tools, then Extensions from the menu.
- Review the list of installed extensions for any suspicious ones related to Nearbyme.io.
- Click the Remove button next to the unwanted extension to uninstall it.
- Confirm the removal if prompted.
- Restart Chrome to complete the removal process.
As a result, you will effectively remove Nearbyme.io pop-ups from both Safari and Chrome.
Conclusion:
In today’s vulnerable age, care and precautions are the best ways to stay away from the nearbyme.io browser hijackers and various other threats.
However, you can successfully remove the Nearbyme.io virus from your Mac system if you follow the detailed steps outlined in this guide.
Whether you chose the manual removal method or utilized the Combo Cleaner tool, your efforts will pay off in securing your system against this threat.
I hope this guide helped you a lot in order to get informed and safe from this awkward redirect pop-up. Also, sincere thanks to be part of this guide!
Enjoy a safe and secure browsing experience on your Mac!