Remove CompactFilter
CompactFilter is a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) that is only compatible with Macs – Windows users are unlikely to encounter it. Mac users might end up installing it accidentally, usually because of interactions with fake downloads, misleading ads, or software bundles. Even though Macs are considered to be very secure, you should still be careful about the apps you interact with – there are plenty of Mac PUPs like this one. Not only this, but Apple's operating system has also been targeted by dangerous malware like the ThiefQuest Ransomware.
What is CompactFilter?
This PUP is not dangerous, but it can be the reason for some annoying changes to your Web browser's behavior. Its goal is to redirect users to ad-ridden, 3rd-party sites. Whenever these ads are clicked or viewed, users generate ad revenue for CompactFilter's creators. Needless to say, if this app reaches thousands of users, it might end up generating a lot of profit for its developers.
The redirects that CompactFilter triggers might happen randomly, or by replacing your Web browser's default search engine and new tab page. While there is nothing malicious about this, it is clearly intrusive behavior that could ruin your Web browsing experience. If you are noticing any of the aforementioned changes, you might want to check your system for PUPs like CompactFilter. The best way to eradicate Mac PUPs is to run an up-to-date security tool, which will scan your entire system for intruders.
