Tag Archive for: MacBook
Russian ransomware attack software targets Apple Mac and MacBook
/in Internet Security
One of the most well-known ransomware attack tools has now begun attacking Mac computers. This alarming news came from a tweet posted by MalwareHunterTeam warning Mac users. Let’s dive into what this ransomware does and how you can protect yourself.
LockBit, a type of ransomware, is one of the first known instances of this malware targeting Mac computers. It is also one of the most widely-used ransomware known today, and its creators are offering cybercriminals this ransomware as a service, which allows various hacking groups to use it for a price.
As of now, the cybercriminals with LockBit are mostly attacking big businesses by infiltrating their systems and encrypting their sensitive files. Most recently, they have gone after SpaceX by breaching one of their suppliers and stealing data. They have also recently gone after SickKids, a hospital in Canada for sick children. LockBit is believed to be an organization run by Russians, however, it is likely being run in the U.S. or China.
Although LockBit has been around for a few years, it has not advanced much when it comes to attacking Macs. Most of its attacks happen on Windows systems. The Mac version, which has been labeled “locker_Apple_M1_64”, still seems to be a work in progress because it typically crashes as soon as it’s launched, and it relies on an invalid signature.
MORE: RANSOMWARE GROUPS ARE ON THE PROWL: COULD YOU BE THEIR NEXT TARGET?
Plus, Apple still has its Gatekeeper protections, which can still prevent LockBit from being run even if it’s downloaded and launched on a device.
For now, all you Mac users can cautiously take a breath of relief as LockBit doesn’t seem to have much figured out yet when it comes to attacking personal Mac computers. However, it can never hurt to take the extra step to protect yourself.
Here are some of my suggestions for guarding yourself against ransomware.
MORE: NEWLY UNEARTHED IPHONE SPYWARE TOOL SOLD TO GOVERNMENTS…
Hackers Behind MacBook Pro Schematics Leak Arrested in Russia
/in Computer Security
The ransomware hackers behind last year’s MacBook Pro schematics leak have now been arrested in Russia, the FSB today announced in a press release (via Reuters).
Following an initial arrest late last year, Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) explained that it has arrested 14 members of “REvil,” an organized criminal association that used malicious software to extort funds from companies.
In April 2021, REvil attacked Taiwanese Apple supplier Quanta Computer. The group went on to post detailed stolen schematics of the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, seven months before the device was officially unveiled.
The extensive schematics revealed the redesigned MacBook Pro’s notch, casing design, ports, full-size function keys instead of the Touch Bar, and more. The leak was so detailed that it reportedly aided repair technicians.
REvil threatened to release more schematics and documents for every day that Apple did not pay a $50 million ransom, but the initial leaked documents vanished just days later. In October 2021, several governments launched a combined effort to take REvil offline.
According to the FSB, after the latest arrests, REvil now ceases to exist and its information infrastructure has been neutralized. REvil’s funds have been seized from 25 addresses in Russia, constituting over $5.5 million worth of cryptocurrency, cash, cars, and equipment. U.S. authorities have also been informed of the development.
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