What is IdeaShared?
IdeaShared is a bogus software that might get on a macOS device without user knowledge. Malware like this uses deceptive distribution method – bundling, allowing to infiltrate users’ computers by means of freeware programs or fake plugins. There are many similar malware programs such as ProcessSave.app, ManagerPages, ExtraBrowser, ResourceSource, DefaultProducts, PremiumForward, IdeaDetails and so on. All of them operate the same scenario: once inside, they forcibly modify settings of Safari and display pop-up message: “Apple wants to make changes and requests your password”. After hitting cancel, a new pop-up stating “installation complete” appears and the only choice is to hit “OK”.
IdeaShared is created exclusively for advertising purposes which is why your system will be filled with a huge amount of diverse advertising (pop-ups, video/audio ads, coupons, best deals, etc.). In addition to this, malware is able to cause redirects to make you visit sponsored websites. Therefore, there is a high risk to end up on a malicious website as there is no guarantee that all links provided by this PUP are safe. The only way to avoid this scenario is to remove IdeaShared right now.
How to remove IdeaShared?
- Remove IdeaShared automatically
- Uninstall IdeaShared from the Appications
- Remove rogue software from Profiles
- Delete malcious elements using Terminal
- Remove IdeaShared From Browsers
Automatic removal of IdeaShared
Norton is a powerful tool that is able to keep your Mac clean. It would automatically search out and delete all elements related to malware. It is not only the easiest way to eliminate malware but also the safest and most assuring one.
Steps of IdeaShared manual removal
Remove IdeaShared from Applications
As it was stated before, more likely that malware appeared on your system brought by other software. So, to get rid of IdeaShared you need to call to memory what you have installed recently.
- Open a Finder window
- Click Applications line on the sidebar
- Try to find applications related to IdeaShared (for example: some applications that you never installed yourself). Select them, right-click it and choose Move to Trash
Remove IdeaShared from Profiles
- Launch System Preferences
- Select Profiles at the bottom of window.
- Choose AdminPrefs profile, click “-“ icon and enter password.
Remove IdeaShared using Terminal
- Open Terminal
- Copy/paste:
defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles YES - Press Return
- Hold the Option/alt key, then right click on the Finder icon in the dock and click Relaunch
- Navigate to: /Users/yourmacname/Library/Application Support/
- Delete Folder: Agent
- Go back to Terminal and copy/paste:
defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles NO - Press Return
- Hold the Option/alt key, then right click on the Finder icon in the dock and click Relaunch
Remove IdeaShared from browsers
Since most of the hijacker threats use a disguise of a browser add-on, you will need to check the list of extensions/add-ons in your browser.
How to remove IdeaShared from Safari
- Start Safari
- Click on Safari menu button, then go to the Extensions
- Delete IdeaShared or other extensions that look suspicious and you don’t remember installing them
How to remove IdeaShared from Google Chrome
- Start Google Chrome
- Click on Tools, then go to the Extensions
- Delete IdeaShared or other extensions that look suspicious and you don’t remember installing them
How to remove IdeaShared from Mozilla Firefox
- Start Mozilla Firefox
- Click on the right-upper corner button
- Click Add-ons, then go to Extensions
- Delete IdeaShared or other extensions that look suspicious and you don’t remember installing them
If the above-mentioned methods didn’t help in eliminating the threat, then it’s better to rely on an automatic way of deleting IdeaShared.
We also recommend to download and use Norton to scan the system after IdeaShared removal to make sure that it is completely gone. The antimalware application will detect any vicious components left among the system that can recover IdeaShared.