MacKeeper pop-ups can be frustrating, interrupting your workflow and raising concerns about system security. While MacKeeper claims to be a legitimate security tool, it is widely considered to be scareware due to its aggressive marketing tactics. If you’re dealing with constant MacKeeper pop-ups, here’s how to remove them completely from your Mac.

Why Am I Seeing MacKeeper Pop-Ups?

MacKeeper pop-ups may appear due to various reasons, including:

• Accidental Installation – You may have unknowingly installed MacKeeper through a software bundle or misleading advertisement.
• Adware Infection – Some websites use deceptive ads to push MacKeeper pop-ups.
• Persistent Browser Notifications – MacKeeper may have been granted permission to send notifications to your browser.
• Malicious Redirects – Clicking on suspicious links can trigger unwanted pop-ups.

How to Remove MacKeeper Pop-Ups from Your Mac

1. Uninstall MacKeeper from Applications

If you have installed MacKeeper on your Mac, follow these steps to uninstall it:

1. Quit MacKeeper: Open MacKeeper, then click MacKeeper > Quit MacKeeper from the top menu bar.
2. Move to Trash: Go to Finder > Applications, find MacKeeper, and drag it to the Trash.
3. Remove Leftover Files:
   • Open Finder, click Go > Go to Folder, then type ~/Library and press Enter.
   • Look for any MacKeeper-related files in the following folders:
     • ~/Library/Application Support/
     • ~/Library/LaunchAgents/
     • ~/Library/LaunchDaemons/
     • ~/Library/Preferences/
   • Delete any MacKeeper-related files found in these folders.
4. Empty Trash: Right-click on the Trash bin and select Empty Trash.

2. Remove MacKeeper from Login Items

MacKeeper may be set to launch automatically on startup. Here’s how to disable it:

1. Go to System Settings.
2. Click General > Login Items.
3. Look for any MacKeeper-related entries and click the “-” button to remove them.

3. Stop MacKeeper Browser Pop-Ups

If MacKeeper pop-ups appear in your web browser, you may need to clear browser settings.

Safari

1. Open Safari and go to Settings (Preferences).
2. Click on Extensions and remove any suspicious extensions.
3. Go to Privacy > Manage Website Data, find MacKeeper-related data, and remove them.
4. Under Websites > Notifications, revoke permission for any unwanted sites.
5. Clear Safari cache by clicking Advanced > Show Develop Menu, then selecting Develop > Empty Caches.

Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome and go to Settings.
2. Click Privacy and security > Site settings > Notifications and block unwanted sites.
3. Go to Extensions and remove any suspicious add-ons.
4. Clear browsing data by navigating to Privacy and security > Clear browsing data.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Open Firefox and go to Settings.
2. Click Privacy & Security and scroll to Permissions.
3. Under Notifications, click Settings and remove unwanted sites.
4. Check Extensions & Themes and remove suspicious extensions.
5. Clear cache and site data under Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data.

4. Scan Your Mac for Malware

If you continue to see MacKeeper pop-ups, your Mac may be infected with adware. Use a trusted malware removal tool like Malwarebytes or Avast Security for Mac to scan and remove any threats.

5. Reset Your Web Browser (If Necessary)

If the pop-ups persist, consider resetting your browser to default settings.

• Safari: Go to Settings > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Remove All.
• Chrome: Type chrome://settings/reset in the address bar and select Restore settings to their original defaults.
• Firefox: Type about:support in the address bar and click Refresh Firefox.

Prevent Future MacKeeper Pop-Ups

To avoid seeing MacKeeper pop-ups in the future, follow these best practices:

• Avoid Clicking on Unverified Ads: Do not click on ads that claim your Mac is infected.
• Download Software from Trusted Sources: Always install apps from the official Mac App Store or trusted developers.
• Use an Ad Blocker: Install an ad blocker like uBlock Origin or AdGuard to prevent unwanted pop-ups.
• Keep macOS and Browsers Updated: Regular updates help protect against adware and malware infections.

Conclusion

MacKeeper pop-ups can be annoying and concerning, but by following these steps, you can completely remove them from your Mac. Uninstall the software, clean up your browser, scan for malware, and take preventive measures to keep your Mac safe. If the problem persists, consider resetting your browser or seeking professional Mac support.

By staying cautious and using trusted security tools, you can keep your Mac running smoothly and free from intrusive pop-ups.