How to Avoid Your MacBook’s Newest Malware Threat

Macs are known for being virtually virus proof. It’s difficult to make computer viruses for Apple machines, but malware is much easier. Hidden software can sometimes be downloaded when users are updating or buying digital downloads. A recent problem with Adobe Flash has been reported for Apple users receiving a pop-up message alerting them to an Adobe Flash update release. The update reminder downloads both an authentic update along with the malware.

“A genuine version of Adobe Flash is downloaded in the background onto Macs alongside the malware – presumably in an attempt to appear more legitimate to any user who begins to suspect something is amiss,” so says U.K.’s The Register. The developer of the malware wanted Mac users to feel comfortable enough to not terminate the download. The online news article continues, “But the malware component of the downloads will soon start warning about fictitious security problems in a bid to trick victims into buying dodgy software. Compromised Macs may also get loaded with malicious browser extensions.”

As of Monday the developer certificate has yet to be pulled. Apple examines every app before it is placed in the app store. Apple and Microsoft both use certificates as a way to validate software, allowing computer users to know they are safe.

The malware code can bypass the protections of OS X Gatekeeper, which is Apple’s built-in security technology. The firm Intego, Mac security specialists, “…warns that the installers in play as part of the attack might easily change, so that crooks might easily switch to using a different bait (perhaps posing as either freeware, shareware, or an open source tool).” Clearly, malware can be created to find new ways to spread ill intent. Hackers often change their methods to prevent capture and stay in the shadows.

While this “scareware” has become a problem more recently on Macs, while Windows PCs have been under threat for a long time. Ransomware has become especially dangerous. It’s malware that scrambles files on computers and then demands a ransom to unscramble the files. The UK news organization compares scareware to the old tech support scams of old. Some websites have code to create pop-up windows suggesting users should scan their computers for problems or issues. After the scan, these sites will claim to have found hundreds of problems with the computer, which require the purchase of software to fix them.

Apple users can avoid the Adobe Flash scam by downloading updates directly form Adobe’s website. It is best to avoid third party sites that claim to help keep software up-to-date. Instead, get software updates straight from the horses’ mouth.

Learn More: 4 Ways Apple Is Keeping Your Private Data Safe in 2016