Remove AssistiveRecord: A Complete Guide to Protect Your Mac

author avatarIvelin Krastev Hours Posted on Hours Updated on

Before we dive in

Before we dive in, let's make sure you stay safe online. We created SpyHunter because your security matters to us.

Protect your computer today — download SpyHunter right here! Check out our top tips below to keep your computer safe and secure.

Download SpyHunter

AssistiveRecord, or AssistiveRecordfld, is a potentially unwanted program that infiltrates your browsing experience by injecting advertisements into visited websites and redirecting your browser’s search queries.

If you’ve encountered this intrusive browser hijacker, you’re likely seeking a solution to remove AssistiveRecord and restore your browser’s normal functionality. Jumping right in:

This Article Contains:

AssistiveRecord description and analysis

AssistiveRecord is classified as a Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA) and a browser hijacker.

This precarious software can modify web browser settings, often resulting in intrusive advertisement campaigns and unwarranted data collection.

In its operation, AssistiveRecord is closely tied to Safe Finder, which is delivered via akamaihd.net, a reputable content delivery network manipulated in this case, for unsolicited activities.

Classification as a PUA and a browser hijacker

Being classified as both a Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA) and a browser hijacker, AssistiveRecord typically infiltrates systems without users’ explicit consent.

This unwelcome software’s traits arise from its invasive behaviors once it secures a foothold on a computer.

PUA characteristics:

  • Intrusive installation: AssistiveRecord often finds its way into systems without seeking direct approval from users. This stealthy installation method can catch users off guard.
  • Undesirable impact: PUAs like AssistiveRecord may exhibit behaviors that compromise the user experience, ranging from unwanted advertisements to changes in browser settings.

Browser hijacking traits:

  • Altered browser settings: AssistiveRecord takes control by manipulating browser settings once entrenched. This alteration can redirect traffic to specific websites, disrupting the everyday browsing experience.
  • Unwanted advertisements: Browser hijackers are notorious for bombarding users with unwanted ads. AssistiveRecord follows suit, displaying advertisements that can be intrusive and disruptive.

User implications:

  • Privacy concerns: The surreptitious installation and intrusive behaviors raise privacy concerns. Users may become worried about the potential compromise of their sensitive information.
  • Disrupted browsing experience: Browser hijacking can lead to a noticeable decline in the quality of the browsing experience, with unwanted ads and altered settings causing frustration.

Connection with Safe Finder and akamaihd.net

AssistiveRecord establishes a connection with Safe Finder, working in tandem to achieve specific objectives.

This collaboration is often involuntary on the user’s part. The PUA utilizes its association with Safe Finder to influence user behavior.

AssistiveRecord contributes to increased web traffic for Safe Finder by redirecting users to specific web pages.

Additionally, AssistiveRecord exploits the akamaihd.net network to streamline the delivery of content associated with its operations.

Through manipulation of akamaihd.net, AssistiveRecord orchestrates increased web traffic. This, in turn, contributes to higher ad revenue as the platform gains financial benefits from directing users to specific pages.

AssistiveRecord and data collection

In addition to its disruptive advertising tactics, AssistiveRecord quietly collects user browsing data. This includes details like frequently visited websites, search queries, and user preferences.

This data is used to tailor targeted advertisements and may raise privacy concerns as it could be sold to third parties.

The covert data collection by AssistiveRecordfld highlights the need for users to be cautious about potential privacy risks associated with this intrusive software.

Once AssistiveRecordfld infiltrates a system, it immediately initiates unwanted registry changes and browser modifications.

These alterations usually lead to performance issues, information theft, excessive pop-ups, and an influx of redirect issues to shady websites.

Distribution methods of AssistiveRecord

AssistiveRecord adware is primarily distributed via deceptive tactics like bundled software and misleading ads.

These techniques are often designed to trick users into inadvertently installing the PUA.

Installation through deceptive advertisements

Disguised as a legitimate and helpful program, AssistiveRecord often tricks users into downloading and installing it on their systems via clickbait ads.

These ads are typically hosted on dubious websites and offer enticing but untrue guarantees to sway users.

Bundling: As extra offers in free software installation

An additional method for the distribution of AssistiveRecordfld is through software bundling. With this technique, the PUA is hidden within the installation setup of another software generally offered for free.

Most users who rushed through these installations end up agreeing to install the unwanted application.

Steps to remove AssistiveRecord

Cleaning your system from AssistiveRecord and other similar threats is essential for maintaining the performance and security of your device.

Remove malicious profiles from Mac

Initiate the removal process of the AssistiveRecord malware by eliminating malicious profiles from your Mac.

These profiles, added by the malicious application, grant it control over specific aspects of your system. Locating and removing these profiles ensures the malware loses its foothold and influence on your computer system.

Step 1: From the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen, select System Settings.
Step 2: Look for the Profiles icon in the System Settings window. If the icon is missing, then the device has no profiles installed.

the general configuration profile settings on macos

Step 3: Analyze the list of profiles to identify any that seem suspicious or that you didn’t intentionally install. Please pay attention to the profile names and the organizations associated with them.

the configuration profile preview on macos

Step 4: To remove a configuration profile, select it and click the (-) button.
Step 5: A confirmation dialog may appear. Verify that you want to remove the selected profile by providing your administrative password.
Step 6: After removing the profiles, it’s a good practice to restart your Mac. This will ensure that the changes take effect.

Remove AssistiveRecord from Mac

Begin by locating and uninstalling AssistiveRecordfld from your Mac. Examine both the list of applications and system library files, as this malicious software may create concealed files or folders in those areas.

delete a program from applications using finder

Ensure thoroughness during this process, as any overlooked browser hijacker component can lead to a potential re-infection.

Pro Tip

Enhance your removal efforts with dedicated security software like SpyHunter for Mac.

It can efficiently identify applications and pinpoint all files and folders associated with the malicious software.

uninstall unwanted application using spyhunter's powerful app uninstaller

Download SpyHunter, install it, and execute the App Uninstaller. Let it scan your system for applications and their corresponding files and folders. Select the applications you wish to remove and click the remove button.

Remove AssistiveRecordfld from your browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox)

Given AssistiveRecord’s role as a browser hijacker, it’s crucial to cleanse your browsers to eradicate its impact.

The method may slightly differ based on whether you use Safari, Chrome, or Firefox. Still, it generally involves removing unfamiliar extensions, clearing the cache, and resetting the browser to default settings.

This ensures your browser is free from AssistiveRecord’s influence, preventing potential re-infections.

Safari

  1. Open Safari and choose Safari from the top menu.
  2. Select Preferences and navigate to the Extensions tab.
  3. Locate the AssistiveRecord extension and choose the option to uninstall it.
  4. Go to the General tab and set your preferred homepage.
  5. Check the Search tab to confirm your desired search engine selection.

Google Chrome

  1. Launch Chrome and click on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
  2. Select More tools and then open the extensions tab.
  3. Find the AssistiveRecord extension and click choose to remove it.
  4. In the same menu, go to Settings.
  5. Under On startup, ensure Open a specific page or set of pages is selected, and set your choice page.
  6. In the Search engine section, choose your preferred search engine.

Mozilla Firefox

  1. Open Firefox and click on the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner.
  2. Open the add-ons settings and navigate to the extensions tab.
  3. Locate the AssistiveRecord extension and click uninstall it.
  4. Navigate to Options and go to the Home tab.
  5. Set your preferred homepage and ensure the selected search engine aligns with your choice.

Use SpyHunter to remove AssistiveRecord

Given the persistent characteristics of AssistiveRecord, it is advisable to utilize a reliable automatic malware removal tool.

Developed by cybersecurity experts, these programs proficiently scan your system for all remnants of AssistiveRecordfld and permanently eliminate them.

SpyHunter, a reputable anti-malware software, can assist you in conducting a comprehensive scan to detect and remove AssistiveRecord and other potentially unwanted programs effectively.

remove assistiverecord with spyhunter

Ensure that the anti-malware software is updated before initiating a scan to enhance its capability to identify and eliminate the latest malware variants.

Follow the steps below to easily download, install, and run a scan with SpyHunter:

  • Download SpyHunter from here and install it.
  • Once installed, the app will automatically start a scan to detect AssistiveRecordfld or any other threats installed on your Mac.
  • Click Next; SpyHunter will effectively quarantine the threats, safeguarding your Mac.

Tips to avoid installation of PUPs

To bolster your defense against potentially unwanted applications (PUAs) like AssistiveRecord, here are some detailed tips to follow:

Use software from official sources

Stick to downloading applications and software from official and authorized vendors.

This practice significantly minimizes the likelihood of unintentionally downloading PUPs. Official channels often have strict security measures to vet the software they host.

Install reputable antivirus software

Employing good antivirus software adds an extra layer of protection to your system. Ensure your antivirus software is updated to recognize and guard against the latest threats.

Some antivirus tools offer real-time protection and can prevent the installation of PUAs by flagging them during the download process.

Consider using SpyHunter, a high-tech antivirus tool that protects against various threats, including PUPs like AssistiveRecord.

remove potentially unwanted programs with spyhunter

Download SpyHunter from here and scan your device for malware.

Thoroughly examine “Custom” and “Advanced” settings

During the installation process of any software, always opt for the “Custom” or “Advanced” settings.

This meticulous approach allows you to analyze and de-select any additional applications bundled with the primary software.

Many PUAs rely on users breezing through the installation process without paying attention, making this step crucial for preventing their inadvertent installation.

Keep software and systems updated

Regularly updating your software and operating system is a fundamental security practice.

Developers release updates to patch vulnerabilities and enhance security. By keeping your software up to date, you reduce the risk of exploitation by malicious software, including PUPs.

Integrating these tips into your online practices can significantly reduce the chances of inadvertently installing potentially unwanted applications like AssistiveRecord.

Share this post on your favorite social media
author avatar

Ivelin is a Mac security expert who works hard to keep computers safe. He helps develop SpyHunter for Mac, a tool that fights off new cyber threats. With a lot of experience, Ivelin knows a lot about keeping Macs safe and makes sure people can use their computers without worry.

Keep Your Mac Fast and Secure
Optimize your Mac and stay malware-free with SpyHunter
Download SpyHunter For Free

For a better understanding of our policies, please review our Free Trial Offer below, EULA, and Privacy/Cookie Policy.

SpyHunter Free Trial: Important Terms & Conditions

The SpyHunter Trial version includes, for one device, a one-time 7-day Trial period for SpyHunter 5 Pro (Windows) or SpyHunter for Mac, offering comprehensive malware detection and removal functionality, high-performance guards to actively protect your system from malware threats, and access to our technical support team via the SpyHunter HelpDesk. You will not be charged upfront during the Trial period, although a credit card is required to activate the Trial. (Prepaid credit cards, debit cards, and gift cards are not accepted under this offer.) The requirement for your payment method is to help ensure continuous, uninterrupted security protection during your transition from a Trial to a paid subscription should you decide to purchase. Your payment method will not be charged a payment amount upfront during the Trial, although authorization requests may be sent to your financial institution to verify that your payment method is valid (such authorization submissions are not requests for charges or fees by EnigmaSoft but, depending upon your payment method and/or your financial institution, may reflect on your account availability). You can cancel your Trial by contacting EnigmaSoft’s payment processor (identified in your confirmation email) or EnigmaSoft directly no later than two business days before the 7-day Trial period expires to avoid a charge coming due and being processed immediately after your Trial expires. If you decide to cancel during your Trial, you will immediately lose access to SpyHunter. If, for any reason, you believe a charge was processed that you did not wish to make (which could occur based on system administration, for example), you may also cancel and receive a full refund for the charge any time within 30 days of the date of the purchase charge. See FAQs.

At the end of the Trial, you will be billed upfront immediately at the price and for the subscription period as set forth in the offering materials and registration/purchase page terms (which are incorporated herein by reference; pricing may vary by country per purchase page details) if you have not timely canceled. Pricing typically starts at $72 for 3 months (SpyHunter Pro Windows) and $42 for 3 months (SpyHunter for Mac). Your purchased subscription will be automatically renewed in accordance with the registration/purchase page terms, which provide for automatic renewals at the then applicable standard subscription fee in effect at the time of your original purchase and for the same subscription time period, provided you’re a continuous, uninterrupted subscription user. Please see the purchase page for details. Trial subject to these Terms, your agreement to EULA/TOS, Privacy/Cookie Policy, and Discount Terms. If you wish to uninstall SpyHunter, learn how.

For payment on the automatic renewal of your subscription, an email reminder will be sent to the email address you provided when you registered before your next payment date. At the onset of your trial, you will receive an activation code that is limited to use for only one Trial and for only one device per account. Your subscription will automatically renew at the price and for the subscription period in accordance with the offering materials and registration/purchase page terms (which are incorporated herein by reference; pricing may vary by country per purchase page details), provided that you are a continuous, uninterrupted subscription user. For paid subscription users, if you cancel, you will continue to have access to your product(s) until the end of your paid subscription period. If you wish to receive a refund for your then current subscription period, you must cancel and apply for a refund within 30 days of your most recent purchase, and you will immediately stop receiving full functionality when your refund is processed.

For CALIFORNIA CONSUMERS, please see the notice provisions:
NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA CONSUMERS: Per the California Automatic Renewal Law, you may cancel a subscription as follows:

  1. Go to www.enigmasoftware.com and click the "Login" button at the top right corner.
  2. Log in with your username and password.
  3. In the navigation menu, go to "Order/Licenses." Next to your order/license, a button is available to cancel your subscription if applicable. Note: If you have multiple orders/products, you will need to cancel them on an individual basis.

Should you have any questions or problems, you can contact our EnigmaSoft support team by phone at +1 (888) 360-0646 (USA Toll-Free) / +353 76 680 3523 (Ireland/International) or by email at support@enigmasoftware.com.
How do you cancel a SpyHunter Trial? If your SpyHunter Trial was registered via MyCommerce, you can cancel the trial via MyCommerce by logging into the MyAccount section of MyCommerce (see your confirmation email for further details). You can also contact MyCommerce by phone or email to cancel. To contact MyCommerce via phone, you can call +1-800-406-4966 (USA Toll-Free) or +1-952-646-5022 (24x7x356). You can contact MyCommerce by e-mail at ordersupport@mycommerce.com. You can easily identify if your trial was registered via MyCommerce by checking the confirmation emails that were sent to you upon registration. Alternatively, all users may also contact EnigmaSoft Limited directly. Users can contact our technical support team by emailing support@enigmasoftware.com, opening a ticket in the SpyHunter HelpDesk, or calling +1 (888) 360-0646 (USA) / +353 76 680 3523 (Ireland/International). You can access the SpyHunter HelpDesk from SpyHunter's main screen. To open a support ticket, click on the "HelpDesk" icon. In the window that appears, click the "New Ticket" tab. Fill out the form and click the "Submit" button. If you are unsure of what "Problem Type" to select, please choose the "General Questions" option. Our support agents will promptly process your request and respond to you.

———

SpyHunter Purchase Details
You also have the choice of subscribing to SpyHunter immediately for full functionality, including malware removal and access to our support department via our HelpDesk, typically starting at $42 for 3 months (SpyHunter Basic Windows) and $42 for 3 months (SpyHunter for Mac) in accordance with the offering materials and registration/purchase page terms (which are incorporated herein by reference; pricing may vary by country per purchase page details). Your subscription will automatically renew at the then applicable standard subscription fee in effect at the time of your original purchase subscription and for the same subscription time period, provided you’re a continuous, uninterrupted subscription user and for which you will receive a notice of upcoming charges before the expiration of your subscription. Purchase of SpyHunter is subject to the terms and conditions on the purchase page, EULA/TOS, Privacy/Cookie Policy and Discount Terms.

———

General Terms
Any purchase for SpyHunter under a discounted price is valid for the offered discounted subscription term. After that, the then applicable standard pricing will apply for automatic renewals and/or future purchases. Pricing is subject to change, although we will notify you in advance of price changes.
All SpyHunter versions are subject to your agreeing to our EULA/TOS, Privacy/Cookie Policy, and Discount Terms. Please also see our FAQs and Threat Assessment Criteria. If you wish to uninstall SpyHunter, learn how.