First Known Apple Ransomware in the Wild

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First Known Apple Ransomware in the Wild

engine

2:07 pm on Mar 7, 2016 (gmt 0)

Ransomware is synonymous with Windows PCs, but with the popularity of Apple's iOS it was only time before someone took a swipe at Apple. According to the research, this is the first known ransomware for Apple computers.

The security researchers from Palo Alto Networks believe it is the first time ransomware has appeared on Macs.

The KeRangers malware was hidden in a version of a BitTorrent client called Transmission.

The makers of Transmission and Apple say they have taken steps to stop the malware spreading. First Known Apple Ransomware in the Wild [bbc.co.uk]

tangor

5:17 pm on Mar 7, 2016 (gmt 0)

Just a matter of time. Secondary, the apple side generally spends more bucks so a no-brainer for bad actors.

weeks

5:24 pm on Mar 7, 2016 (gmt 0)

I disagree, tangor. It's reasonable to expect known threats such as this to a system that is closed and controlled as much as iOS and and should be addressed. And our law enforcement needs to do their jobs and track down these crooks.

tangor

6:30 pm on Mar 7, 2016 (gmt 0)

Disagree with what? Ain't that what I said?j Apple is a ripe target, and has been so for a number of years. It was just a matter of time that ransomware entered apple play. As for the spend more bucks, look at costs per unit PC v Mac, Bad actors will take note of that as well, and charge accordingly.

engine

12:21 pm on Mar 8, 2016 (gmt 0)

It seems the ransomeware was downloaded 6,500, which is not a huge number. [reuters.com...]
Hardly a major issue, unless you're one of the 6,500 that was hit.