#Mackeeper downloads for free#
#Mackeeper downloads software#
#Mackeeper downloads download#

To distribute the malware, attackers sent phishing emails to MacKeeper users containing a malicious URL.

#Mackeeper downloads software#

Legitimate Mac security software won’t expose Macs to potential security threats. Security experts say it’s one more reason not to trust MacKeeper as a security tool. One vulnerability in MacKeeper’s URL handler, which was recently patched, allowed remote attackers to control Macs after users visited websites via the Safari browser. No proof exists that MacKeeper itself is malicious, but attackers have hijacked its vulnerabilities to deliver malware to Mac owners. Its anti-theft tool is also completely unnecessary, since Mac users can locate their Macs using iCloud’s “Find My iPhone” feature. MacKeeper isn’t affiliated with ClamXav, MalwareBytes, or any other legitimate security company.

#Mackeeper downloads for free#

Although the application does license an Avira antivirus tool within its service suite, the tool is available elsewhere for free without downloading or subscribing to MacKeeper.

#Mackeeper downloads download#

To make itself look like a more legit Mac security product, MacKeeper’s marketers set up spoofed security company sites appearing to belong to ClamXav or MalwareBytes that featured “download” buttons directing users not to the security company’s site but to a MacKeeper download page.Īs for ZeoBIT and Kromtech, they responded to complaints about MacKeeper’s advertising methods with apologies about affiliates who’ve gotten out of control. The company also allegedly posted thousands of fake positive reviews. The pop-under ads weren’t the only shady advertising technique used to market MacKeeper. After ZeoBIT sold MacKeeper to Kromtech Alliance, the software switched to an SaaS model. Some ads also seem to suggest the Mac has an immediate security issue.įrom the ad, past users downloaded a free version and got bombarded with ads for a premium version totaling $39.95. Most of the pop-under ads feature the notorious Mac spinning rainbow wheel along with copy urging users to clean their Macs. It’s also tough to tell which visited website delivers the pop-under ad. They don’t immediately disrupt the Web-surfing experience, so Mac users don’t find the ads until they’re closing the browser. These ads open new browser windows beneath open browser windows. MacKeeper is marketed using an online ad vector called pop-under ads. Even so, people keep on buying it court documents allege 513,330 downloads in the U.S. Recently, MacKeeper’s original developer ZeoBit agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit related to false advertising for MacKeeper.

It also claims to incorporate security tools and provide an anti-theft feature to help you find your Mac if it’s lost or stolen. The application MacKeeper claims to improve your Mac’s performance by freeing up disk space and performing a wide range of cleanup functions. Tales of pop-up ads, malfunctioning hard drives, and deleted data will flow in from disgruntled Mac owners. Publish an article about this controversial Mac app, and watch the animosity fill your comments section.