Where did this come from?

My Mac showed a notification about a program with an unknown developer running in the background.

I found it among "logging Items" and it look like this


The file is called "open" and it was installed yesterday at a time when I wasn't using the computer.

I disabled it from running in the background....


What to do next?

Could it be harmful?

Should I delete it or just let it be.

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 13.2

Posted on Mar 10, 2023 11:14 PM

Reply
3 replies

Mar 12, 2023 2:16 PM in response to Patuleko

Hi Patuleko,


We see you noticed an unexpected object showing up in Login Items and you've already disabled it and ensured it's not in the "Open at Login" list as well. Those were both good steps to start!


This type of item is probably related to a third-party app. Try starting your Mac up in safe mode to test and see if it still appears there. Safe mode runs a quick disk check and prevents items from launching, so knowing if you can remove it from that list in safe mode will be good information. Here's How to use safe mode on your Mac. The exact steps will depend on your processor:


"Apple silicon

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Turn on your Mac and continue to press and hold the power button until you see the startup options window.
  3. Select your startup disk, then press and hold the Shift key while clicking “Continue in Safe Mode.”
  4. Log in to your Mac. You might be asked to log in again.


Intel processor

  1. Turn on or restart your Mac, then immediately press and hold the Shift key as your Mac starts up.
  2. Release the key when you see the login window, then log in to your Mac. 
  3. You might be asked to log in again. On either the first or second login window, you should see ”Safe Boot” in the upper-right corner of the window."


Once you test, click Apple menu () > Restart to get back to normal and let us know what you found.


Have a good one.

Mar 13, 2023 10:43 AM in response to Patuleko

Patuleko,


Thank you for those details. There is an information button next to the program in the screenshot you provided. What types of information does it show when selected?


You can delete this app by locating it with Finder:


"Use the Finder to delete apps

  1. Switch to the Finder, such as by clicking your desktop or the Finder icon in the Dock.
  2. Select the app that you want to delete. Most apps are in your Applications folder, which you can open by clicking Applications in the sidebar of any Finder window. Or choose Go > Applications from the menu bar in the Finder.
  3. Use any of these ways to move the app to the Trash:
    • Drag the app to the Trash.
    • Select the app and choose File > Move to Trash from the menu bar.
    • Select the app and press Command-Delete on your keyboard.

4.If you're asked for a user name and password, enter the name and password of an administrator account on your Mac. This is usually the name and password you use to log in to your Mac.

5.To delete the app after moving it to the Trash, choose Finder > Empty Trash."


More details can be found here: Uninstall apps on your Mac


Cheers!

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Where did this come from?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.