Persistent pop-ups, redirects, or alerts can be signs of adware or other unwanted software, but they do not prove your Mac is infected. Work through Apple’s built-in checks first, and treat alerts from websites separately from apps installed on your Mac.
First, don’t click the pop-up
Some pop-ups imitate trusted companies or promote fake downloads and updates. Don’t follow their links, enter personal or payment information, or install a tool they recommend. Close the tab or window without using buttons inside the ad. If it will not close, quit the browser and reopen it without restoring the suspicious page.
Apple identifies persistent pop-ups as a possible sign of adware or other unwanted software, not definitive proof of infection. Its Safari pop-up guidance, published January 29, 2026, recommends updating macOS, checking for unexpected apps, and reviewing Safari extensions.
Update macOS and restart
- Open the Apple menu and choose System Settings, then select General > Software Update. Install an available macOS update.
- If your Mac is already up to date, restart it from the Apple menu.
Apple says macOS includes a built-in tool that removes known malware when the Mac restarts. That is a useful first step, not a guarantee that every adware infection or unwanted app will be removed.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Look for apps you didn’t mean to install
- Open Finder and select Applications.
- Look for an app you do not recognize or did not intend to install. Consider when the ads began and whether they appeared after installing that app.
- If you identify an unwanted app, use its own uninstaller if it provides one. Otherwise, quit it and move it to the Trash; enter an administrator password only if macOS asks you to.
Do not delete unfamiliar system files or remove items in Library folders indiscriminately. If you cannot tell whether an app is legitimate, verify it with its developer or Apple Support before removing it.
Review Safari extensions
- Open Safari and choose Safari > Settings from the menu bar.
- Select Extensions.
- Turn off an extension you do not need or recognize. If the problem stops, select that extension and choose Uninstall.
Remove extensions cautiously: an unfamiliar name alone is not proof that an extension is malicious. If you use Chrome, Firefox, or another browser, check that browser’s own current instructions; Safari’s controls and paths do not apply to other browsers.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Check whether the alert is a website notification
A website can ask permission to send notifications. If allowed, its alerts may appear in Notification Centre or on the Lock Screen, and the alert by itself does not mean an adware app is installed. Check the alert’s displayed source. If it names a website, review that site’s notification permission in the browser or macOS notification settings and revoke permission if you do not want its alerts.
Apple’s cited guidance explains that websites can send these notifications but does not specify a current click path for revoking permission. The exact controls can depend on your macOS version and browser, so consult the relevant current Apple or browser instructions rather than following a guessed menu path.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
If the ads continue, consider a scan or trusted support
If the problem persists after the checks above, a security scanner is an optional next step—not a guaranteed fix. Malwarebytes documents a Mac security app, scanning, and quarantine functions in its Mac installation instructions and Mac scanning guide. Follow the app’s current instructions and review what it identifies before taking action; no scanner can be assumed to detect every threat.
If you still cannot identify the cause or remove the unwanted software, contact Apple Support or a trusted technician. Avoid download links in unsolicited alerts and get apps from the App Store or directly from a developer you trust. Apple calls the App Store the safest way to download apps.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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