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{{Short description|Cleanup utility for macOS}}
{{Infobox software
{{Infobox software
| name = MacKeeper
| name = MacKeeper
|logo =[[Image:Mackeeper.jpg]]
| logo =
| screenshot =
| developer = [[Zeobit LLC]]
| caption =
⚫
| latest release version = MacKeeper 2.0
| developer = [[Clario Tech]] Limited <br/> [[Kromtech]] <br/> [[Zeobit]]
| latest release date = {{start date and age|2012|01|30}}
| released = {{start date and age|2010|10|01}}
⚫
| operating_system = [[Mac OS X]]
⚫
| latest release version = 6.7
⚫
| genre = [[Antivirus software|Antivirus]], [[Utility software]]
| latest release date = May 2024
⚫
| license = [[Proprietary software|Proprietary]]
⚫
| operating_system = [[macOS]] [[OS X El Capitan]] 10.11 or later
| website = [http://mackeeper.zeobit.com/ mackeeper.zeobit.com]
| language count = 18
| language = Chinese, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish
| language footnote = <ref name="Softonic">{{cite web| url=https://mackeeper.en.softonic.com/mac |title=MacKeeper 3.7 |publisher=Softonic |access-date=2018-05-30}}</ref>
⚫
| genre = [[Utility software]]
⚫
| license = [[Proprietary software|Proprietary]] [[commercial software]]
}}
}}


'''MacKeeper''' is a cleanup utility for [[macOS]]. MacKeeper was developed by [[Zeobit|ZeoBIT]], later acquired by [[Kromtech]], and is currently owned by Clario Tech.
MacKeeper, developed and distributed by Zeobit LLC is a system utility for Mac OS that provides 16 tools for security, optimization and cleanup of Mac OS. Other features include built-in 24/7 online chat and “Geek on Demand”, the professional help for any technical question.


MacKeeper has a troubled and litigious history under previous ownership. Zeobit settled a class action lawsuit accusing them of deceptive advertising and making false claims about MacKeeper's capabilities, and Kromtech unsuccessfully sued MacKeeper critics. Some versions are difficult to uninstall, and some versions have been flagged as undesirable by other anti-virus programs. In 2015, the personal information of 13 million users was publicly accessible on the web.
== Security ==
==History==
=== Safe browsing ===
MacKeeper was first released in 2010 by [[Zeobit]]. Versions 1 and 2 received mixed reviews.<ref>{{cite web |last=Battersby |first=Jeffery |date=24 Aug 2010 |title=MacKeeper 0.9.6 |url=http://www.macworld.com/article/1151454/mackeeper.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130314030320/http://www.macworld.com/article/1151454/mackeeper.html |archive-date=2013-03-14 |publisher=Macworld}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Berenstain |first=Adam |date=23 September 2011 |title=MacKeeper System Maintenance Suite Review |url=http://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/mackeeper_system_maintenance_suite_review |publisher=MacLife}}</ref><ref name="av-comparatives">{{cite web |year=2013 |title=Product Review: Mac Security - July 2013 |url=http://www.av-comparatives.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/mac_review_2013_en.pdf |access-date=12 July 2013 |publisher=AV-Comparatives}}</ref> A 2011 press release by Avira and ZeoBIT revealed that MacKeeper integrated Avira's antivirus scanning engine.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-03-11 |title=Avira’s Anti-Virus Technology Used by ZeoBIT in New System Utility - MacKeeper |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20110311005711/en/Avira%E2%80%99s-Anti-Virus-Technology-Used-by-ZeoBIT-in-New-System-Utility---MacKeeper |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=BusinessWire |language=en}}</ref> In April 2013, MacKeeper was acquired by Kromtech. Kromtech was closely affiliated with Zeobit, and hired many former Kyiv-based Zeobit employees.<ref name="5MayPCWorld">{{cite journal |last=Kirk |first=Jeremy |date=5 May 2015 |title=MacKeeper celebrates a difficult birthday under the cloud of a class action lawsuit |url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2919292/apple-security-program-mackeeper-celebrates-difficult-birthday.html |journal=[[PC World]] |publisher=IDG}}</ref> In December 2015, security researcher Chris Vickery found that MacKeeper customer data was unsecured and publicly accessible on the internet, exposing the emails, phone numbers, and other information of over 13 million MacKeeper users; Kromtech rapidly secured the customer database.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Storm |first=Darlene |date=2015-12-16 |title=13 million MacKeeper users exposed by Shodan search, no password or hacking required |url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/3016072/13-million-mackeeper-users-exposed-by-shodan-search-no-password-or-hacking-required.html |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=[[Computerworld]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Brewster |first=Thomas |title=MacKeeper Leaks 13 Million Mac Owners' Data, Leaves Passwords Open To Easy Cracking |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/thomasbrewster/2015/12/14/mackeeper-13-million-apple-mac-data-leak-passwords/ |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=Forbes |language=en}}</ref>
Real-Time Safe Browsing feature blocks malicious websites automatically while surfing the Internet. Moreover users can manually create lists of potentially dangerous websites to be auto-blocked and likewise 100% trusted websites that won't be checked.
For the extra security there is Mac OS engine antivirus which can be helpful when users work with Windows emulators such as Parallels or VMWare.


In 2019, MacKeeper was acquired by a newly-founded company, Clario Tech.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=The Security Interviews: Can AV go from dodgy scareware to cyber hero? |url=https://www.computerweekly.com/news/252481951/The-Security-Interviews-Can-AV-go-from-dodgy-scareware-to-cyber-hero |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=ComputerWeekly.com |language=en}}</ref> In November 2020, Clario released MacKeeper 5, which received 3.5 of 5 star reviews from TechRadar and Macworld.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Dvorak |first=Chyelle |last2=Faulds |first2=John |date=2021-05-11 |title=MacKeeper review |url=https://www.techradar.com/reviews/mackeeper-5 |access-date=2021-09-29 |website=TechRadar |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Martin|first=Keith|title=MacKeeper 5 review|url=https://www.macworld.co.uk/review/mackeeper-5-review-3804173/|access-date=2021-09-29|website=Macworld UK|language=en}}</ref> Clario obtained [[ISO 27001]] and [[AV-TEST]] certification for the product, as well as notarization from Apple.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Whitney |first1=Lance |date=November 26, 2021 |title=MacKeeper review: A convenient security suite saddled with a shady past |url=https://www.macworld.com/article/552819/mackeeper-review.html |access-date=4 July 2024 |work=Macworld |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Haslam |first=Karen |date=2017-08-31 |title=Do Macs get viruses, and do Macs need antivirus software? |url=https://www.macworld.co.uk/how-to/mac-software/do-macs-get-viruses-do-macs-need-antivirus-software-3454926/ |access-date=2017-11-12 |publisher=Macworld}}</ref> The new version includes a VPN, on-demand virus scanning, a memory cleaner, and a disk cleaner.<ref name=":1" />
=== Anti-Theft ===
If the Mac ever gets stolen, the user can login to his or her ZeoBIT account, click Anti-Theft tab and "Report stolen computer". Next time Mac goes online, MacKeeper will immediately generate a detailed report on its location and make an iSight snapshot of the thief. The support stuff will immediately call the user and email this report along with the snapshot. This feature proved to be extremely helpful. <ref>[http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/3/prweb9287336.htm]</ref>


== Data Control ==
== Reception ==
=== Data Encryptor ===
Data Encryptor can make files or folders invisible on the hard drive. Using a password the data cannot be retrieved through Finder or Terminal.
=== Files Recovery ===
Files Recovery scans hard drive for deleted files that can be still restored. Files Recovery performs a deep scan of the hard drive (usually takes from 30 mins up to a few hours). All found files can be previewed using the Quick Look button and recoveredwith just one click.
=== Backup ===
Backup creates reserve copies of the files and folders. The backup destination can be USB Flash drive, External HDD, FTP.
=== Shredder ===
Shredder deletes folders and files so that even specialized software won't be able to restore them.
== Cleaning ==
=== Fast Cleanup ===
Fast Cleanup finds and removes junk files on the hard drive in order to free up space. It includes Binaries cutter, Languages cutter, Logs cleaner and Cache cleaner.
=== Disk Usage ===
Disk Usage scans the folders and marks them with different colors depending on their size. This feature includes files and duplicate finder and itprovides the easy way to detect large files.
=== Smart Uninstaller ===
Smart Uninstaller removes widgets, applications, preference panes and plugins. It removes the preferences, caches and logs which still remain on the Mac's hard drive after Trash.<ref>[http://mac.appstorm.net/how-to/utilities-how-to/mackeeper-keep-your-mac-clean-fast-and-secured/]</ref>
== Optimization ==
=== Update Tracker ===
Update Tracker checks each application installed on Mac for the new versions. All apps are marked by color as Up to Date and Out of Date. Any out-of-date application can be updated manually.
=== Login items ===
Login Items allows to manage automatic startup of the applications.
=== Default Apps ===
Default Apps shows associations between all file extensions and applications that open them. It helps defining which application will open each file type.
== Geek on Demand ==
Geek on Demand gives professional answers to all the technical questions. The user needs only to describe the problem in details and will receive guaranteed answer within 48 hours. For MacKeeper users the amount of demands is unlimited. Geek on Demand can configure Mac using remote access, give qualified phone assistance, give advices and provide with expert research and references, etc.


Many antivirus programs classified MacKeeper version 3 as a [[potentially unwanted program]] or [[adware]] and prompted users to remove it.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Matthews |first=Mike |date=2018-01-14 |title=What MacKeeper is and why you should remove it from your Mac |url=https://www.imore.com/removing-mackeeper-your-mac |access-date=2022-11-06 |website=iMore |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Withers |first=Stephen |title=2018 Malware outlook: more of the same, says Sophos |url=https://itwire.com/business-it-news/security/80651-2018-malware-outlook-more-of-the-same,-says-sophos.html |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=ITwire |language=en-gb}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Reed |first=Thomas |title=PUP Friday: MacKeeper {{!}} Malwarebytes Labs |url=https://www.malwarebytes.com/blog/news/2016/08/pup-friday-mackeeper |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=Malwarebytes |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 17, 2017 |title=MacKeeper detection results |url=https://www.virustotal.com/gui/file/70d33519281fa5ffda7e40ef4b14a4014a13268a337e7e3c67f2f34944b6b0e6/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20221105142929/https://www.virustotal.com/gui/file/70d33519281fa5ffda7e40ef4b14a4014a13268a337e7e3c67f2f34944b6b0e6/ |archive-date=November 5, 2022 |access-date=November 5, 2022 |website=[[VirusTotal]]}}</ref> The official uninstaller "[left] pieces behind", resulting in regular pop-ups to convince users to reinstall the app.<ref name="Breen">{{cite web |last=Breen |first=Christopher |date=2017-02-14 |title=How to uninstall MacKeeper from your Mac |url=http://www.macworld.com/article/2861435/software-utilities/how-to-uninstall-mackeeper-from-your-mac.html |access-date=2017-11-11 |publisher=Macworld}}</ref> ''[[Business Insider]]'' recommended users avoid or uninstall the product.''<ref name="MaxSlaterRobins">{{cite web |author=Max Slater-Robins |title=Here's what MacKeeper is — and why you should avoid it |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-mackeeper-and-should-you-avoid-it-2015-12 |publisher=Business Insider}}</ref>'' Both ''[[Tom's Guide]]'' and ''[[Macworld]]'' have published [[How To (disambiguation)|how-to]] guides for deleting the software.<ref name ="Peter Cohen">{{cite web| url=http://www.imore.com/avoid-mackeeper |title=What 'MacKeeper' is and why you should avoid it |date=2015-01-21 |publisher=iMore |first=Peter |last=Cohen}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tomsguide.com/us/get-rid-of-mackeeper,news-21754.html |first=Marshall |last=Honorof |date=2015-10-23 |publisher=Tom's Guide |title=How to Get Rid of MacKeeper}}</ref><ref name="Breen" />
== Awards ==
Version 1 & 2 of the program received mixed reviews, with reviewers being divided as to the effectiveness of the software.<ref>{{cite web |title=MacKeeper 0.9.6 |url=http://www.macworld.com/article/1151454/mackeeper.html |publisher=Macworld |first=Jeffery |last=Battersby |date=24 Aug 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130314030320/http://www.macworld.com/article/1151454/mackeeper.html |archive-date=2013-03-14 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title=MacKeeper System Maintenance Suite Review |url=http://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/mackeeper_system_maintenance_suite_review |first=Adam |last=Berenstain |date=23 September 2011 |publisher=MacLife}}</ref> Some versions of MacKeeper opened a critical security hole in customers' Macs; Kromtech later issued a fix.<ref name="11MayPCWorld">{{cite web |author=Lucian Constantin |date=May 11, 2015 |title=Controversial MacKeeper security program opens critical hole on Mac computers |url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2921212/controversial-mackeeper-security-program-opens-critical-hole-on-mac-computers.html |access-date=October 24, 2018 |website=[[PCWorld]]}}</ref> ''[[AV-Comparatives]]'' found that MacKeeper warned of "serious" issues on a brand-new clean copy of [[macOS]], which could only be fixed by purchasing the program.<ref name="5MayPCWorld" /> This was deemed [[scareware]] by cybersecurity journalist [[Brian Krebs]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Krebs |first=Brian |date=December 14, 2015 |title=13 Million MacKeeper Users Exposed |url=https://krebsonsecurity.com/2015/12/13-million-mackeeper-users-exposed/ |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=Krebs on Security |language=en-US}}</ref> French news outlet ''[[Le Figaro]]'' called MacKeeper a scam, and criticized its reliance on "fear".<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Darmanin |first=Jules |date=December 16, 2015 |title=Les données personnelles de 13 millions d'utilisateurs de MacKeeper exposées |url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/secteur/high-tech/2015/12/16/32001-20151216ARTFIG00187-les-donnees-personnelles-de-13-millions-d-utilisateurs-de-mackeeper-exposees.php |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=[[Le Figaro]] |language=fr}}</ref><ref name="Peter Cohen" /> [[Computerworld]] described MacKeeper as "a virulent piece of software".<ref>{{cite web |last=Evans |first=Jonny |date=2018-02-14 |title=Mac: What does 'System Scan is Recommended' mean? |url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/3255625/apple-mac/mac-what-does-system-scan-is-recommended-mean.html |access-date=2018-05-30 |publisher=Computerworld}}</ref>


MacKeeper's marketing tactics drew criticism.<ref name="cultofmac">{{cite web |last=Kahney |first=Leander |date=30 May 2012 |title=Is MacKeeper Really A Scam? |url=http://www.cultofmac.com/170522/is-mackeeper-really-a-scam/ |publisher=Cult of Mac}}</ref><ref name="5MayPCWorld" /> Zeobit was accused of employing aggressive [[pop-under ad]]s, planting [[Sockpuppet (Internet)|sockpuppet reviews]], and setting up websites to discredit its competitors.<ref name="cultofmac" /><ref>{{cite web |title=MacKeeper, a rather slimy tale |url=http://themacfeed.com/2011/06/mackeeper-a-rather-slimy-tale/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110621031050/http:/themacfeed.com/2011/06/mackeeper-a-rather-slimy-tale |archive-date=June 21, 2011 |access-date=November 5, 2022 |website=TheMacFeed |publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Here's what MacKeeper is - and why you should avoid it |url=https://www.businessinsider.in/heres-what-mackeeper-is-and-why-you-should-avoid-it/articleshow/50191430.cms |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=Business Insider}}</ref> In 2015, PCWorld noted that MacKeeper ads were "all over the web", and that Kromtech claimed to be buying 60 million ad impressions a month. MacKeeper was in part promoted by affiliate sellers, who could earn a 50% commission for sales of the app. Some affiliates promoted MacKeeper in adware. After media criticism, Kromtech claimed it revamped its affiliate program.<ref name="5MayPCWorld" />
1) Editor's Pick award from Brothersoft.com <ref>[http://mac.brothersoft.com/mackeeper.html]</ref>
2) Five-Star Award from Soft82.com <ref>[http://www.soft82.com/download/mac/mackeeper/]</ref>
3) Five Cow Rating from Tucows.com <ref>[http://www.tucows.com/preview/736319]</ref>
4) Editor's Pick from Wareseeker.Com <ref>[http://mac.wareseeker.com/Utilities/mackeeper-0.8.zip/c4564033a]</ref>
5) Five-Star Award from Soft-Go.com <ref>[http://www.soft-go.com/view/MacKeeper_76609.html]</ref>


MacKeeper's usefulness was disputed by tech media; anti-malware, secure erase, backup, encryption, and anti-theft were either built-into macOS or available for free.<ref name="5MayPCWorld" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hoffman |first=Chris |date=2014-03-13 |title=Does Your Mac Really Need Tools Like MacKeeper? |url=https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/mac-really-need-tools-like-mac-keeper/ |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=MakeUseOf |language=en-US}}</ref> [[Top Ten Reviews]] noted that other Mac anti-malware apps had better detection rates, resulting in a score of 7.5 out of 10.<ref>{{cite web |title=Kromtech MacKeeper Review |url=http://www.toptenreviews.com/software/security/best-mac-antivirus-software/kromtech-mackeeper-review/ |access-date=3 March 2017 |publisher=[[Purch Group]]}}</ref> A July 2017 [[AV-TEST]] assessment found MacKeeper only detected 85.9 percent of the tested malware.<ref>{{cite web |date=2017-07-05 |title=10 Antivirus Suites for MacOS Sierra Put to the Test |url=https://www.av-test.org/en/news/news-single-view/10-antivirus-suites-for-macos-sierra-put-to-the-test/ |publisher=AV-TEST}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Perler |first=Luca |date=2017-07-19 |title=Die besten Virenscanner für Mac-Rechner |url=http://www.computerworld.ch/tests/software/artikel/die-besten-virenscanner-fuer-mac-rechner-72735/ |publisher=Computerworld |language=de}}</ref>
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== References ==
⚫
{{Reflist}}


== External Links ==
=== Lawsuits ===
*[http://mackeeper.zeobit.com/ MacKeeper web-site]
*[http://zeobit.com/ Zeobit web-site]


In January 2014, a [[class action lawsuit]] was filed against Zeobit in [[Illinois]].<ref name="CNSClass">{{cite news |last=Bouboushian |first=Jack |date=January 21, 2014 |title=Class Says 'MacKeeper; Software is Junkware. |agency=Courthouse News Service |url=http://www.courthousenews.com/2014/01/21/64695.htm}}</ref> The lawsuit alleged that "neither the free trial nor the full registered versions of MacKeeper performed any credible diagnostic testing" and reported that a consumer's Mac was in need of repair and was at-risk due to harmful error.<ref name="CNSClass" /> In May 2014 a lawsuit was filed against Zeobit in [[Pennsylvania]], alleging that MacKeeper fakes security problems to deceive victims into paying for unneeded fixes.<ref name="RichLord">{{cite web |last=Lord |first=Rich |title=Pennsylvania woman sues company that promises computer security |url=http://www.post-gazette.com/local/region/2014/05/06/Pennsylvania-woman-sues-company-that-promises-computer-security/stories/201405060191 |access-date=12 May 2014 |publisher=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette}}</ref><ref name="5MayPCWorld" /> On 10 August 2015, Zeobit settled the lawsuit for {{US$|2 million}}.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clover |first=Juli |title=Customers Who Bought MacKeeper Can Get a Refund Under New Settlement |url=http://www.macrumors.com/2015/08/10/mackeeper-refund-settlement/ |access-date=2015-08-10}}</ref> Customers who bought MacKeeper before 8 July 2015 could apply to get a refund.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 August 2015 |title=Yencha v. ZeoBIT LLC Class Action Settlement |url=https://yenchasoftwaresettlement.com |access-date=10 August 2015 |website=Yencha v. ZeoBIT LLC}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=Jeremy Kirk |date=27 May 2015 |title=Ads for MacKeeper refunds will run on Facebook |publisher=Computerworld(IDG) |url=http://www.computerworld.com/article/2926741/security0/ads-for-mackeeper-refunds-will-run-on-facebook.html}}</ref>
[[nl:Mackeeper]]

Kromtech also filed at least two unsuccessful [[defamation]] lawsuits against MacKeeper critics. In July 2013 Kromtech sued MacPaw, the developers of CleanMyMac, which was dismissed before the hearing.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Tennant |first=Don |date=28 May 2015 |title=MacKeeper's Tarnished Reputation Tip: Convey Your Message, or Others Will Do It for You |publisher=IT Business Edge |url=http://www.itbusinessedge.com/blogs/from-under-the-rug/mackeepers-tarnished-reputation-tip-convey-your-message-or-others-will-do-it-for-you.html |access-date=13 November 2015}}</ref> In 2014, Kromtech sued David A. Cox, who had made a video criticizing MacKeeper; the judge dismissed the case.<ref>{{cite web |date=n.d. |title=ORDER AND REASONS granting 8 Motion to Dismiss Tech TalkAmerica, LLC for Kromtech of USA, LLC v. Cox et al :: Justia Dockets & Filings |url=https://docs.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/louisiana/laedce/2:2014cv01550/162511/15 |access-date=13 November 2015 |publisher=Justia}}</ref> In July 2016, Kromtech sent a cease and desist letter to Luqman Wadood, a 14-year old technology reviewer who made YouTube videos critical of the app; Luqman said the videos were diplomatic.<ref>{{cite web |last=Kallelid |first=Magnus |date=23 July 2016 |title=14-åring fra Madla ble truet av amerikansk dataselskap |trans-title=14-year-old from Madla was threatened by US IT company |url=http://www.aftenbladet.no/kultur/14-aring-fra-Madla-ble-truet-av-amerikansk-dataselskap-3965721.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160724160821/http://www.aftenbladet.no/kultur/14-aring-fra-Madla-ble-truet-av-amerikansk-dataselskap-3965721.html |archive-date=July 24, 2016 |access-date=November 5, 2022 |publisher=Stavanger Aftenblad |language=no}}</ref>

==See also==
{{Portal|Companies}}
* [[Comparison of antivirus software]]
* [[Comparison of firewalls]]
* CleanMyMac X, other cleanup utility and competitor of MacKeeper

⚫
==References==
⚫
{{Reflist|30em}}

[[Category:Antivirus software]]
[[Category:MacOS-only proprietary software]]
[[Category:Utilities for macOS]]
[[Category:MacOS security software]]

Latest revision as of 13:13, 30 October 2024

MacKeeper
Developer(s)Clario Tech Limited
Kromtech
Zeobit
Initial releaseOctober 1, 2010; 14 years ago (2010-10-01)
Stable release
6.7 / May 2024
Operating systemmacOS OS X El Capitan 10.11 or later
Available in18 languages[1]
List of languages
Chinese, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish
TypeUtility software
LicenseProprietary commercial software
Websitemackeeper.com Edit this on Wikidata

MacKeeper is a cleanup utility for macOS. MacKeeper was developed by ZeoBIT, later acquired by Kromtech, and is currently owned by Clario Tech.

MacKeeper has a troubled and litigious history under previous ownership. Zeobit settled a class action lawsuit accusing them of deceptive advertising and making false claims about MacKeeper's capabilities, and Kromtech unsuccessfully sued MacKeeper critics. Some versions are difficult to uninstall, and some versions have been flagged as undesirable by other anti-virus programs. In 2015, the personal information of 13 million users was publicly accessible on the web.

History

[edit]

MacKeeper was first released in 2010 by Zeobit. Versions 1 and 2 received mixed reviews.[2][3][4] A 2011 press release by Avira and ZeoBIT revealed that MacKeeper integrated Avira's antivirus scanning engine.[5] In April 2013, MacKeeper was acquired by Kromtech. Kromtech was closely affiliated with Zeobit, and hired many former Kyiv-based Zeobit employees.[6] In December 2015, security researcher Chris Vickery found that MacKeeper customer data was unsecured and publicly accessible on the internet, exposing the emails, phone numbers, and other information of over 13 million MacKeeper users; Kromtech rapidly secured the customer database.[7][8]

In 2019, MacKeeper was acquired by a newly-founded company, Clario Tech.[9] In November 2020, Clario released MacKeeper 5, which received 3.5 of 5 star reviews from TechRadar and Macworld.[10][11] Clario obtained ISO 27001 and AV-TEST certification for the product, as well as notarization from Apple.[12][13] The new version includes a VPN, on-demand virus scanning, a memory cleaner, and a disk cleaner.[10]

Reception

[edit]

Many antivirus programs classified MacKeeper version 3 as a potentially unwanted program or adware and prompted users to remove it.[14][15][16][17] The official uninstaller "[left] pieces behind", resulting in regular pop-ups to convince users to reinstall the app.[18] Business Insider recommended users avoid or uninstall the product.[19] Both Tom's Guide and Macworld have published how-to guides for deleting the software.[20][21][18] Version 1 & 2 of the program received mixed reviews, with reviewers being divided as to the effectiveness of the software.[22][23] Some versions of MacKeeper opened a critical security hole in customers' Macs; Kromtech later issued a fix.[24] AV-Comparatives found that MacKeeper warned of "serious" issues on a brand-new clean copy of macOS, which could only be fixed by purchasing the program.[6] This was deemed scareware by cybersecurity journalist Brian Krebs.[25] French news outlet Le Figaro called MacKeeper a scam, and criticized its reliance on "fear".[26][20] Computerworld described MacKeeper as "a virulent piece of software".[27]

MacKeeper's marketing tactics drew criticism.[28][6] Zeobit was accused of employing aggressive pop-under ads, planting sockpuppet reviews, and setting up websites to discredit its competitors.[28][29][30] In 2015, PCWorld noted that MacKeeper ads were "all over the web", and that Kromtech claimed to be buying 60 million ad impressions a month. MacKeeper was in part promoted by affiliate sellers, who could earn a 50% commission for sales of the app. Some affiliates promoted MacKeeper in adware. After media criticism, Kromtech claimed it revamped its affiliate program.[6]

MacKeeper's usefulness was disputed by tech media; anti-malware, secure erase, backup, encryption, and anti-theft were either built-into macOS or available for free.[6][31] Top Ten Reviews noted that other Mac anti-malware apps had better detection rates, resulting in a score of 7.5 out of 10.[32] A July 2017 AV-TEST assessment found MacKeeper only detected 85.9 percent of the tested malware.[33][34]

Lawsuits

[edit]

In January 2014, a class action lawsuit was filed against Zeobit in Illinois.[35] The lawsuit alleged that "neither the free trial nor the full registered versions of MacKeeper performed any credible diagnostic testing" and reported that a consumer's Mac was in need of repair and was at-risk due to harmful error.[35] In May 2014 a lawsuit was filed against Zeobit in Pennsylvania, alleging that MacKeeper fakes security problems to deceive victims into paying for unneeded fixes.[36][6] On 10 August 2015, Zeobit settled the lawsuit for US$2 million.[37] Customers who bought MacKeeper before 8 July 2015 could apply to get a refund.[38][39]

Kromtech also filed at least two unsuccessful defamation lawsuits against MacKeeper critics. In July 2013 Kromtech sued MacPaw, the developers of CleanMyMac, which was dismissed before the hearing.[40] In 2014, Kromtech sued David A. Cox, who had made a video criticizing MacKeeper; the judge dismissed the case.[41] In July 2016, Kromtech sent a cease and desist letter to Luqman Wadood, a 14-year old technology reviewer who made YouTube videos critical of the app; Luqman said the videos were diplomatic.[42]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "MacKeeper 3.7". Softonic. Retrieved 2018-05-30.
  2. ^ Battersby, Jeffery (24 Aug 2010). "MacKeeper 0.9.6". Macworld. Archived from the original on 2013-03-14.
  3. ^ Berenstain, Adam (23 September 2011). "MacKeeper System Maintenance Suite Review". MacLife.
  4. ^ "Product Review: Mac Security - July 2013" (PDF). AV-Comparatives. 2013. Retrieved 12 July 2013.
  5. ^ "Avira's Anti-Virus Technology Used by ZeoBIT in New System Utility - MacKeeper". BusinessWire. 2011-03-11. Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  6. ^ a b c d e f Kirk, Jeremy (5 May 2015). "MacKeeper celebrates a difficult birthday under the cloud of a class action lawsuit". PC World. IDG.
  7. ^ Storm, Darlene (2015-12-16). "13 million MacKeeper users exposed by Shodan search, no password or hacking required". Computerworld. Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  8. ^ Brewster, Thomas. "MacKeeper Leaks 13 Million Mac Owners' Data, Leaves Passwords Open To Easy Cracking". Forbes. Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  9. ^ "The Security Interviews: Can AV go from dodgy scareware to cyber hero?". ComputerWeekly.com. Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  10. ^ a b Dvorak, Chyelle; Faulds, John (2021-05-11). "MacKeeper review". TechRadar. Retrieved 2021-09-29.
  11. ^ Martin, Keith. "MacKeeper 5 review". Macworld UK. Retrieved 2021-09-29.
  12. ^ Whitney, Lance (November 26, 2021). "MacKeeper review: A convenient security suite saddled with a shady past". Macworld. Retrieved 4 July 2024.
  13. ^ Haslam, Karen (2017-08-31). "Do Macs get viruses, and do Macs need antivirus software?". Macworld. Retrieved 2017-11-12.
  14. ^ Matthews, Mike (2018-01-14). "What MacKeeper is and why you should remove it from your Mac". iMore. Retrieved 2022-11-06.
  15. ^ Withers, Stephen. "2018 Malware outlook: more of the same, says Sophos". ITwire. Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  16. ^ Reed, Thomas. "PUP Friday: MacKeeper | Malwarebytes Labs". Malwarebytes. Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  17. ^ "MacKeeper detection results". VirusTotal. May 17, 2017. Archived from the original on November 5, 2022. Retrieved November 5, 2022.
  18. ^ a b Breen, Christopher (2017-02-14). "How to uninstall MacKeeper from your Mac". Macworld. Retrieved 2017-11-11.
  19. ^ Max Slater-Robins. "Here's what MacKeeper is — and why you should avoid it". Business Insider.
  20. ^ a b Cohen, Peter (2015-01-21). "What 'MacKeeper' is and why you should avoid it". iMore.
  21. ^ Honorof, Marshall (2015-10-23). "How to Get Rid of MacKeeper". Tom's Guide.
  22. ^ Battersby, Jeffery (24 Aug 2010). "MacKeeper 0.9.6". Macworld. Archived from the original on 2013-03-14.
  23. ^ Berenstain, Adam (23 September 2011). "MacKeeper System Maintenance Suite Review". MacLife.
  24. ^ Lucian Constantin (May 11, 2015). "Controversial MacKeeper security program opens critical hole on Mac computers". PCWorld. Retrieved October 24, 2018.
  25. ^ Krebs, Brian (December 14, 2015). "13 Million MacKeeper Users Exposed". Krebs on Security. Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  26. ^ Darmanin, Jules (December 16, 2015). "Les données personnelles de 13 millions d'utilisateurs de MacKeeper exposées". Le Figaro (in French). Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  27. ^ Evans, Jonny (2018-02-14). "Mac: What does 'System Scan is Recommended' mean?". Computerworld. Retrieved 2018-05-30.
  28. ^ a b Kahney, Leander (30 May 2012). "Is MacKeeper Really A Scam?". Cult of Mac.
  29. ^ "MacKeeper, a rather slimy tale". TheMacFeed. Archived from the original on June 21, 2011. Retrieved November 5, 2022.
  30. ^ "Here's what MacKeeper is - and why you should avoid it". Business Insider. Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  31. ^ Hoffman, Chris (2014-03-13). "Does Your Mac Really Need Tools Like MacKeeper?". MakeUseOf. Retrieved 2022-11-05.
  32. ^ "Kromtech MacKeeper Review". Purch Group. Retrieved 3 March 2017.
  33. ^ "10 Antivirus Suites for MacOS Sierra Put to the Test". AV-TEST. 2017-07-05.
  34. ^ Perler, Luca (2017-07-19). "Die besten Virenscanner für Mac-Rechner" (in German). Computerworld.
  35. ^ a b Bouboushian, Jack (January 21, 2014). "Class Says 'MacKeeper; Software is Junkware". Courthouse News Service.
  36. ^ Lord, Rich. "Pennsylvania woman sues company that promises computer security". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 12 May 2014.
  37. ^ Clover, Juli. "Customers Who Bought MacKeeper Can Get a Refund Under New Settlement". Retrieved 2015-08-10.
  38. ^ "Yencha v. ZeoBIT LLC Class Action Settlement". Yencha v. ZeoBIT LLC. 7 August 2015. Retrieved 10 August 2015.
  39. ^ Jeremy Kirk (27 May 2015). "Ads for MacKeeper refunds will run on Facebook". Computerworld(IDG).
  40. ^ Tennant, Don (28 May 2015). "MacKeeper's Tarnished Reputation Tip: Convey Your Message, or Others Will Do It for You". IT Business Edge. Retrieved 13 November 2015.
  41. ^ "ORDER AND REASONS granting 8 Motion to Dismiss Tech TalkAmerica, LLC for Kromtech of USA, LLC v. Cox et al :: Justia Dockets & Filings". Justia. n.d. Retrieved 13 November 2015.
  42. ^ Kallelid, Magnus (23 July 2016). "14-åring fra Madla ble truet av amerikansk dataselskap" [14-year-old from Madla was threatened by US IT company] (in Norwegian). Stavanger Aftenblad. Archived from the original on July 24, 2016. Retrieved November 5, 2022.
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