Apple Mac Specific Threats on the Rise!

Mac machines are just as vulnerable to security threats as the normal PC, but over the years Apple has created a name for itself as not being prone to security threats, this happens to be so because of the brand being a less popular choice among consumers, institutions and hackers alike. PC’s reach among the people is much more, and hackers find it more feasible to develop malware's for the same. Also, it assures greater payout or ROI (Return On Investment). MacOS is a BSD Unix derivative and is heavily customized, so much heavy lifting has to be done to attack MacOS. Apple was the first major OS vendor to introduce the concept of ‘app sandboxing’ at the desktop. Each ‘tab’ runs its process and has its sandbox, enabling it to prevent infections. As compared to earlier, there hasn’t been an increase in Mac-specific malware, but there is a rise in the cross-platform threats like spyware, adware and unwanted applications on Mac machines. Most incidents on Mac occur through exploits in third party solutions from Adobe, and Java, etc., which provide a mechanism for delivering malicious software and malware. The reason for the increase in AdWare is because it is an easy way for developers to earn money. Third-Party installers are the most popular AdWare for Mac. These programs allow those using it for distribution to include monetization of advertisements showing additional offers to the user during installation. These additional offers get installed on the machine, without an end user’s approval. In some cases even if approval needed, the user may not notice the checkbox with the corresponding text as it is tiny and difficult to read. The user simply clicks ‘next’ so a PUA (Potentially Unwanted Application) is then detected. The opportunistic malware problem on Mac is on the rise; users understand the need for more protection. The most common are Mac Trojans that take your keychain to access corporate credentials, any and all of the login details in the back keychain. Unlike Windows, there are very few ransomware targets Mac. Even though the number of malware for Mac numbered only up to 7 last year, security experts noticed a manifold increase in the number of Adwares and PUPs. AdWare is a scam towards advertisers; the makers paid by advertising companies for putting up ads, replacing ads or redirecting the user to other search engines. These AdWares are mostly belonging to Ironcore, Mackeeper, Cross Rider and Advanced Mac Cleaner open up security vulnerabilities by redirecting URL’s. Whether using a Mac or a PC, security is of prime importance; organizations realizes that in a targeted attack, the risks are equal. Certain preventive measures should be taken to minimize the risk of AdWare. Be vigilant, carefully inspect and read all file print. Get a know-how on how to recognize junk before you agree to download it. Installation of Anti-Virus can help mitigate the risks. It bolsters protection, especially when the end user education falls short.