What is Chatzum?
Chatzum is the name of malicious software that targets Mac operating systems. It could be detected by some changes that occur on installed browsers. Once installed, the software may alter the homepages and default search engines of installed browsers. The website that may start to appear is search.chatzum.com. This is a suspicious search engine that could redirect searches to fake results that link to bogus sites. Also, an unwanted toolbar could appear in affected browsers.
The ChatZum could be even more dangerous for systems it infects. The program is also detected as a Trojan horse by some anti-malware tools. In such a case, the app could enable threat actors to access and fully take control of your Mac computer.
The sooner you find out how to get rid of ChatZum malware on Mac, the better. Don’t wait. Keep up with this removal guide and make your Mac secure again.
Chatzum Malware Summary
| Title | Chatzum also known as Trojan.MacOS.Chatzum.A and search.chatzum.com |
| Type | Malware for MacOS |
| Quick Description | Aims to slither on your Mac undetected and perform series of malcious activities. |
| Symptoms | The settings of some of the installed web browsers may be affected. A suspicious toolbar and search engine may appear on them. In some cases the malware will be desinged to remain undetected, so no evident symptoms can be registered. |
| Distribution Method | Malware, Malspam, Compromised websites |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
SpyHunter for Mac
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Chatzum Malware. |
Chatzum Malware on Mac – More Information
The malicious program ChatZum can infect an Apple Mac device in several ways. It may land on the system via a sponsored page, a compromised email attachment, or a rogue software that includes ChatZum in a malicious bundle.
Once ChatZum establishes its files on your Mac, it will access target web browsers to alter their settings. The program may adjust settings that will enable it to present unwanted adverts and pop-ups whenever you are online and browsing the web.
To remove any browser extensions added by ChatZum make sure to check the following directories:
- /Applications/ChatZumUninstaller.pkg
- /Library/Application Support/SIMBL/Plugins/SafariOmnibar.bundle
- /Library/Internet Plug-Ins/uid.plist
- /Library/Internet Plug-Ins/zako.plugin
Additionally, we should inform you that the Chatzum is the detection name of a Trojan horse. As a Mac virus, the program may act maliciously. It might try to collect personal data, let hackers establish a remote connection to the device, and help them install specific harmful files.
It’s evident that ChatZum is a highly complicated threat and could barely be detected in some cases. That’s why we suggest that you perform a thorough removal process by making use of an advanced anti-malware tool like SpyHunter for Mac. See how to use this tool and additional manual steps to get rid of harmful apps and secure the macOS.
Remove Chatzum Malware from Mac
To eliminate ChatZum along with all associated files that enable it to perform different malicious activities, you should first isolate it on the infected system. In the guide below, you will see precisely how to do this as well as how to remove the malware from the infected Mac. We show two approaches – manual and automatic. Beware that infections like this one are better to be deleted with the help of specialized security tools. The manual removal may not be enough for the complete removal of malicious files. As a result, your Mac will remain vulnerable to future malware attacks.
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Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Steps to Prepare Before Removal:
Before starting to follow the steps below, be advised that you should first do the following preparations:
- Backup your files in case the worst happens.
- Make sure to have a device with these instructions on standy.
- Arm yourself with patience.
- 1. Scan for Mac Malware
- 2. Uninstall Risky Apps
- 3. Clean Your Browsers
Step 1: Scan for and remove Chatzum Malware files from your Mac
When you are facing problems on your Mac as a result of unwanted scripts and programs such as Chatzum Malware, the recommended way of eliminating the threat is by using an anti-malware program. SpyHunter for Mac offers advanced security features along with other modules that will improve your Mac’s security and protect it in the future.
Quick and Easy Mac Malware Video Removal Guide
Bonus Step: How to Make Your Mac Run Faster?
Mac machines maintain probably the fastest operating system out there. Still, Macs do become slow and sluggish sometimes. The video guide below examines all of the possible problems that may lead to your Mac being slower than usual as well as all of the steps that can help you to speed up your Mac.
Step 2: Uninstall Chatzum Malware and remove related files and objects
1. Hit the ⇧+⌘+U keys to open Utilities. Another way is to click on “Go” and then click “Utilities”, like the image below shows:
2. Find Activity Monitor and double-click it:
3. In the Activity Monitor look for any suspicious processes, belonging or related to Chatzum Malware:
4. Click on the "Go" button again, but this time select Applications. Another way is with the ⇧+⌘+A buttons.
5. In the Applications menu, look for any suspicious app or an app with a name, similar or identical to Chatzum Malware. If you find it, right-click on the app and select “Move to Trash”.
6. Select Accounts, after which click on the Login Items preference. Your Mac will then show you a list of items that start automatically when you log in. Look for any suspicious apps identical or similar to Chatzum Malware. Check the app you want to stop from running automatically and then select on the Minus (“-“) icon to hide it.
7. Remove any leftover files that might be related to this threat manually by following the sub-steps below:
- Go to Finder.
- In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
- Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
- If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.
In case you cannot remove Chatzum Malware via Step 1 above:
In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:
1. Click on "Go" and Then "Go to Folder" as shown underneath:
2. Type in "/Library/LauchAgents/" and click Ok:
3. Delete all of the virus files that have similar or the same name as Chatzum Malware. If you believe there is no such file, do not delete anything.
You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:
→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons
Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.
Step 3: Remove Chatzum Malware – related extensions from Safari / Chrome / Firefox
Chatzum Malware-FAQ
What is Chatzum Malware on your Mac?
The Chatzum Malware threat is probably a potentially unwanted app. There is also a chance it could be related to Mac malware. If so, such apps tend to slow your Mac down significantly and display advertisements. They could also use cookies and other trackers to obtain browsing information from the installed web browsers on your Mac.
Can Macs Get Viruses?
Yes. As much as any other device, Apple computers do get malware. Apple devices may not be a frequent target by malware authors, but rest assured that almost all of the Apple devices can become infected with a threat.
What Types of Mac Threats Are There?
According to most malware researchers and cyber-security experts, the types of threats that can currently infect your Mac can be rogue antivirus programs, adware or hijackers (PUPs), Trojan horses, ransomware and crypto-miner malware.
What To Do If I Have a Mac Virus, Like Chatzum Malware?
Do not panic! You can easily get rid of most Mac threats by firstly isolating them and then removing them. One recommended way to do that is by using a reputable malware removal software that can take care of the removal automatically for you.
There are many Mac anti-malware apps out there that you can choose from. SpyHunter for Mac is one of the reccomended Mac anti-malware apps, that can scan for free and detect any viruses. This saves time for manual removal that you would otherwise have to do.
How to Secure My Data from Chatzum Malware?
With few simple actions. First and foremost, it is imperative that you follow these steps:
Step 1: Find a safe computer and connect it to another network, not the one that your Mac was infected in.
Step 2: Change all of your passwords, starting from your e-mail passwords.
Step 3: Enable two-factor authentication for protection of your important accounts.
Step 4: Call your bank to change your credit card details (secret code, etc.) if you have saved your credit card for online shopping or have done online activiites with your card.
Step 5: Make sure to call your ISP (Internet provider or carrier) and ask them to change your IP address.
Step 6: Change your Wi-Fi password.
Step 7: (Optional): Make sure to scan all of the devices connected to your network for viruses and repeat these steps for them if they are affected.
Step 8: Install anti-malware software with real-time protection on every device you have.
Step 9: Try not to download software from sites you know nothing about and stay away from low-reputation websites in general.
If you follow these reccomendations, your network and Apple devices will become significantly more safe against any threats or information invasive software and be virus free and protected in the future too.
More tips you can find on our MacOS Virus section, where you can also ask any questions and comment about your Mac problems.
About the Chatzum Malware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Chatzum Malware how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific macOS issue.
How did we conduct the research on Chatzum Malware?
Please note that our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, thanks to which we receive daily updates on the latest malware definitions, including the various types of Mac threats, especially adware and potentially unwanted apps (PUAs).
Furthermore, the research behind the Chatzum Malware threat is backed with VirusTotal.
To better understand the threat posed by Mac malware, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.