New Mac Malware Spreads Through Pirated Software
Summary
Kasperskys investigation also found that the malware’s creator took pre-compromised versions of the pirated software and altered a few bytes of code, “thus disabling it to make the user launch Activator.” A screenshot shows in one case the hacker packed the malware into a pirated version of xScope, a paid macOS utility. The news arrives as other hackers have been spotted exploiting pirated software to spread other kinds of macOS malware. A month ago, Kaspersky discovered cracked software being used to infect victim machines with a malicious proxy network. Then in February, security firm Jamf found another cryptocurrency-focused macOS malware circulating through a pirated version of Apples Final Cut Pro software. “To elevate their privileges, they just need to ask for the password, which typically causes no suspicions with users during software installation.” Sign up for SecurityWatch newsletter for our top privacy and security stories delivered right to your inbox.