A new malware has been discovered which would potentially infect your iPhone or Mac. It was discovered by Palo Alto Networks, and it is called Wirelurker.
According to Palo Alto Networks, the Wirelurker Malware infects Mac OS X applications. Over 467 applications infected with Wirelurker were discovered on a third-party Mac OS app store in China called Maiyadi.
How Wirelurker Works
Wirelurker is unique in its ability to infect even non-jailbroken iOS devices through trojanized and repackaged OS X applications. This marks a significant shift in the landscape of malware targeting Apple devices. Typically, iOS devices are considered more secure due to their closed ecosystem, but Wirelurker challenges this notion by exploiting vulnerabilities in the way OS X and iOS interact.
Once a user downloads an infected application from the Maiyadi app store, the malware can spread to iOS devices connected via USB. This means that even if your iPhone or iPad is not jailbroken, it can still be compromised if it connects to an infected Mac. The malware can then steal sensitive information, such as contacts, messages, and other personal data.
Unit 42 has recently discovered a new family of Apple OSX and iOS malware, aptly named “WireLurker”. Characteristics of this malware family, including its ability to infect even non-jailbroken iOS devices through trojanized and repackaged OS X applications, suggest that it marks a new era in malware across Apple’s desktop and mobile platforms. Read the report for a detailed analysis of WireLurker and its potential impact, and get recommendations for preventing and mitigating WireLurker and similar iOS and OS X malware threats.
Impact and Prevention
According to the researchers, the 467 infected applications that have been identified have been downloaded over 356,104 times, potentially infecting thousands of users. This widespread distribution highlights the importance of downloading applications only from trusted sources, such as the official Apple App Store.
To protect yourself from Wirelurker and similar threats, it is crucial to follow best practices for cybersecurity. Here are some recommendations:
1. Download Apps from Trusted Sources: Always download applications from the official Apple App Store or other reputable sources. Avoid third-party app stores, especially those that are not well-known or have a history of distributing malware.
2. Keep Your Software Updated: Regularly update your OS X and iOS devices to the latest versions. Apple frequently releases security patches that address known vulnerabilities.
3. Use Security Software: Consider using reputable security software that can detect and remove malware. While macOS and iOS are generally secure, additional layers of protection can help mitigate risks.
4. Be Cautious with USB Connections: Avoid connecting your iOS devices to unknown or potentially compromised computers. If you must connect to a public or shared computer, ensure that it is secure and free from malware.
5. Monitor for Unusual Activity: Keep an eye on your devices for any unusual behavior, such as unexpected pop-ups, slow performance, or unfamiliar applications. These could be signs of malware infection.
The discovery of Wirelurker underscores the evolving nature of cybersecurity threats. As malware becomes more sophisticated, it is essential for users to stay informed and vigilant. By following best practices and being cautious with downloads and connections, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
For more detailed information on Wirelurker and its potential impact, you can read the full report from Palo Alto Networks. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the malware, its characteristics, and recommendations for preventing and mitigating similar threats.
Source Palo Alto Networks, PC World
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