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1 MIN READ

Quick Hits



APPLE USERS OPEN TO REMOTE CONTROL VIA TRICKY MACOS MALWARE

The Hidden Virtual Network Computing (hVNC) malware infests Macs and silently
executes complete takeovers, with no user permission needed. It also sports
persistence through reboots.
Dark Reading Staff
Dark Reading
August 01, 2023
Source: leonello calvetti via Alamy Stock Photo
PDF


Recently discovered data-stealing malware is targeting macOS users with a sneaky
approach that uses Hidden Virtual Network Computing (hVNC). It's being sold at a
lifetime price of $60,000 on the Dark Web, with add-ons available.



Virtual Network Computing (VNC) software is typically used by IT teams to
provide remote technical support to users. A doppelgänger version of the tool is
hVNC, which can be bundled into malware that operates covertly, gaining access
without requesting permission from the user.

According to Guardz researchers, a macOS version of such a tool has emerged on
Exploit, the infamous Russian underground forum. It specializes in bagging all
manner of sensitive information, including login credentials, personal data,
financial information, and more. Concerningly for Apple users, the malware can
also survive system reboots and other attempts at removal.

"The macOS hVNC identified by Guardz has been available since April, with
updates made as recently as July 13, and was tested on a wide array of macOS
versions from 10 through 13.2, on offer from an active Exploit forum member
called RastaFarEye," the firm noted in an analysis on Aug. 1. "The forum member
holds a significant track record of malicious activity, having already developed
a Windows OS hVNC variant, among other attack tools."



The discovery follows the emergence of the ShadowVault malware in July, which
also exclusively targets macOS devices.

"The growing talk of macOS tools within underground cybercrime forums, suggests
an imminent surge in cyberattacks against macOS users," said Dor Eisner, CEO and
co-founder of Guardz, in a media statement. "Small and medium-sized enterprises,
who once considered macOS as the safer option, should exercise caution and
prepare themselves for the impacts of this changing threat landscape."

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