Banking malware Dridex attacking Mac, MacBook computers with sneaky infection method
If you use a Mac or MacBook, beware that a banking malware known as Dridex is moving away from attacking Windows computers and is now going after Macs using email attachments that look like regular documents.
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It is an information-stealing malware attributed to cybercriminal group Evil Corp that is used to collect sensitive data from infected machines. Cybersecurity software company Trend Micro analyzed the malware and found that the file can run on both macOS and iOS systems.
Here’s what you need to know about the banking malware known as Dridex.
What is Dridex malware and what does it do?
Dridex malware has been around for many years, and cyber security firms have targeted it since its conception. The purpose of this malware is to target and obtain private information from people’s bank accounts. Dridex is classified as Trojan malware, a type of malware that disguises its malicious coding inside seemingly harmless data to catch people off guard. Cyber hackers usually spread it through spam email, posing as official-looking emails.
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Dridex is now known to be hitting Mac and MacBook computers.
How does this macOS Dridex malware work?
This version of the Dridex malware contains a malicious document that will run automatically once a user opens it. Once it starts running, it bypasses all Microsoft Word files located inside the infected macOS computer and will contact a remote server to download more files. One of those files is a Windows executable that runs on Dridex.
If you have a Mac, you may not be immediately aware that your files are corrupt, which is why Dridex is specifically targeting Word documents. Since people regularly share Word documents, people with Macs can share their overlooked, malicious files with others and unknowingly infect those devices, creating a malware domino effect.
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In this case, the malware itself cannot infect the target Macs, as it is contained within a Windows executable file. However, if you were to download the corrupted file, it could cause the files on your Mac to be overwritten with malicious files. It has the potential when distributed online to unwittingly infect your family, friends and colleagues with malware.
To protect your computer against Dridex, follow these steps.
How do I prevent malware from attacking my laptop?
My greatest desire is to educate and inform you about the real growing threat to each of our connected devices and encourage you to use strong antivirus security protection for everything in your life connected to the rest of the world.
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Check out my expert review of the best antivirus protection for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices by searching for “Best Antivirus” on CyberGuy.com by clicking the magnifying glass icon at the top of my website.
Go here for more tips on how to keep your computers secure. (CyberGuy.com)
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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning technology journalist who has a deep love for technology, gadgets and gadgets that make life better with his contributions to Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends”. Have a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
