An estimated 100 million Apple users are at risk of falling victim to malware.
cyber security software company checkpoint has issued an urgent warning to millions of Mac users around the world who could fall prey to malicious attackers who bypass their devices' built-in antivirus systems.
According to the company, cybercriminals developed a malware called Banshee macOS Stealer that operated undetected for over several months while secretly stealing credentials and other sensitive data.
The malware first surfaced last year in what Check Point calls “underground forums” and was billed as “Theft as a Service,” which could be purchased for as little as $3,000. The company reports that this could allow cybercriminals to target Mac users with malware through phishing sites masquerading as popular software companies like Chrome and Telegram.
In the fall, the Banshee macOS Stealer was modified by a developer using code “stolen” from Apple's XProtect, Apple's antivirus system built into Mac devices, and ran on users' computers. It turned out that the malware was not detected.
“This stealth malware does more than just infiltrate. It operates undetected and blends seamlessly with normal system processes while stealing browser credentials, cryptocurrency wallets, user passwords, and sensitive file data.” write Check Point researchers.
“What's really alarming about Banshee is its ability to evade detection. Even experienced IT professionals have a hard time identifying its presence.”
Since the malware's source code was leaked on an online forum in November, antivirus systems have been able to detect it, but it has also raised concerns about new cybercrime tactics.
“While macOS includes robust security features such as Gatekeeper, XProtect, and sandboxing, the rise of the Banshee stealer is a reminder that no operating system is immune to threats,” the researchers wrote. There is.
Technology news site to protect yourself and your data tom's guide It urged users to be “vigilant” after downloading apps and software by checking the company's legitimacy before downloading them.
Although your Mac comes with built-in antivirus software, the experts at Tom's Guide recommend using it in conjunction with a VPN, password manager, or other antivirus software you can purchase.
