what is a helper tool

Hi Jazz:

I found another post which talks about a helper tool. Re: "Application is trying to install a new helper tool" Is it safe?

Basically it says that if you are not sure about the application that is asking to install a helper tool, do NOT allow it.

It could be Malware.

Kim

#1 = at least since last January > Small white square appearing on screen

Turns out they (Apple) neglected to Remove (or Quit) the remote control app & it left a tiny "window" that looked like an oversized pixel center of display

Apple Support personnel are not trained or equipped to deal with malware infections, and most likely damagewas done to some third-party software. I have two suggestions:

1. Never again use any "anti-virus" or "anti-malware" software for any reason, no matter who tells you to.

2. Reinstall the third-party software that isn't working.

Three notes:

1) Apple HAS been known to remotely connect to computers starting recently*, so you may not have to worry about their legitimacy. That is assuming you called Apple Support directly, and not using the phone number from a pop-up.

*I base this off of second-hand information and have not seen this myself and cannot find an official statement from Apple about it.

2) The pop-up that you attribute to a "virus" is just a rogue webpage and not caused by anything installed on your computer, however if you see them very frequently, then it could be caused by adware, which it sounds like Apple thought you had.

3) Anti-malware software is the quickest way, and the way that requires the least effort on your part, to remove an adware infection, which is likely why Apple had you download such a program. Some such programs have a poor reputation on Macs, but the judgement on its effectiveness should be examined on a case-by-case basis.

Yes I seen this the first time you posted it.

Thanks,

Kim

When you contacted Apple support, did they have you download an application that would allow then to access your MBP and 'move the cursor'?

Ciao.

Would you please provide more details regarding your query. I simply do not understand what you mean by 'helper tool'.

Ciao.

Are you sure that Apple did this "repair"? Or did you call an 800 number that you saw in the pop-up?

I have not heard of Apple connecting remotely to your computer to fix a problem.

I hope they did not ask for your credit card number.

Kim

Hi Jazz:

Try downloading and running EtreCheck https://etrecheck.com/ and posting the results here.

Maybe it will supply some more information.

You said you had some other issues?

Kim