Guard Your Mac Against Malware

Guard Your Mac Against Malware

The quantity of Mac viruses is growing at an alarming rate and solid protection against these threats is essential if you wish to prevent identity theft, file corruption or interception of your credit card details. Comodo Antivirus provides the state-of-the-art virus protection to your Mac OS computer at no cost. Aug 11, 2020 Well-respected malware protection vendor Malwarebytes reports they saw more malware on Mac machines in 2017 than in any previous year. How to find out if your Mac was infected Malware can take many forms on Mac, but perhaps the most popular forms of malware today are adware and illicit cryptocurrency mining.
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Can Macs get viruses?In addition to their ability to work seamlessly with Apple devices, many users prefer Mac computers because of their perceived 'inherent' security features. Apple also notifies users of periodic updates to make sure that every generation of Apple product has the most secure software version. And while Apple does go to great lengths to keep its devices safe by making it difficult to download any/all software foreign to its official Apple application store, this does NOT mean your Mac is immune to all computer viruses.
What is a virus?A virus is any piece of malicious software that invades your computer system, then copies itself. They can also then spread to other systems. This could result in stolen personal information or financial data, corrupted files, or crypto-hijacking. Here are some of the common viruses that infect Apple devices, and some of the best ways to protect your computer from them.
CookieMinerCookieMiner is malware that captures Chrome browser authentication cookies primarily associated with cryptocurrency exchanges. The sophisticated CookieMiner code bypasses strict security protocols of both Apple and cryptocurrency exchanges by stealing information such as passwords, usernames, and other login credential data. It can even capture backed-up data from iTunes accounts that can be used to open cryptocurrency wallets and then steal cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP. Stealing valuable cryptocurrency isn't enough for CookieMiner hackers, however, as they also use this malware to load cryptocurrency mining software onto MacBooks to mine Koto, a little-known Japanese cryptocurrency.
Besides a significantly lighter cyber wallet, there are some other clues that your Mac may be infected by the CookieMiner virus. As a cryptocurrency miner, CookieMiner uses a significant amount of a CPU's processing power and therefore, infected Macs will be slow to complete even basic computing tasks. You may also notice that other software applications on your Mac don't work as well as they should or stop working completely, or tour Mac could also overheat.
OSX/Dok… Next GenerationOSX/Dok is malware that commandeers data traffic entering and leaving a Mac computer without your knowledge. It reroutes this traffic through a bogus proxy server to then obtain access to all your communications. The malware is able to counter Apple's security because it's signed by a legitimate developer certificate that validates its authenticity. Through OSX/Dok, a hacker even has access to data that moves through SSL-TLS encrypted connections such as banking information. This is especially troubling since Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks are commonly synced to operate together.
While the original version of OSX/Dok was thwarted when Apple disabled its associated developer certificate, later versions have popped up using different developer certificates. Apple devices are vulnerable to this malware mainly when users are duped to download files through email phishing scams. Once the software is installed on your computer, it immediately takes over critical operations. Users then most often see a message that the system has detected a security issue. The malware prompts users to install an update, and it then locks up all operations until the user submits a password to install it. After obtaining the password, the malware then has full administrative privileges to take control of the device.
CrossriderCrossrider is a variant on the OSX/Shlayer malware and uses a fake Adobe Flash player installer to dump other pieces of malicious code onto your Apple devices. Users mistakenly download the fake installer when they're sent a message to update Adobe Flash player. If you follow the link, you'll mistakenly download the fake installer instead of the real update from the Adobe website. The fake installer message will then prompt you to submit your password so that the software can make changes to your system and install the program.
Advanced Mac Cleaner, Chumsearch Safari Extension, and MyShopCoupon+ are some of the items that are installed through the fake Adobe Flash player installer. While MyShopCoupon+ and Chumsearch Safari Extension do cause minor annoyances to users, Advanced Mac Cleaner can cost you much more if you're not careful. Advanced Mac Cleaner appears to run a security scan of your system and identifies several issues. It then asks the user to pay $107 to activate the program's clean-up feature.
Macros Viruses… From Microsoft WordMacro viruses used to be a problem that only PC users face. Macros are pieces of code that programmers embed within applications to automate routine tasks. The code, which is written in Visual Basic, can be used to hijack applications and do harm when users open popular Microsoft Office products such as Word, Excel, or Project. Visual Basic commands in macros can result in deleted or corrupted files. When you use Word to open an infected file, Word catches the virus and passes it on to every Word document that you subsequently create.
Apple disabled macro support in its early versions of Office for Mac, but it recently allowed macros to be supported in its later versions of both Word and Excel. But Mac users still have some protection against macros viruses since Apple doesn't allow macros to be automatically enabled by default.
MShelperMShelper is a cryptocurrency mining malware that allows a hacker to help himself to your computer's processing capabilities in order to steal cryptocurrency. Hackers also develop this malware to display advertisements on the screens of popular browsers such as Mozilla, Chrome, and Firefox. Cybersecurity experts contend that MShelper infects computers when users download files of dubious origins. Some signs that your computer has been infected by MShelper include lowered battery life, fast-spinning fans, overheating, and increased noise.
Since crypto mining software takes a great deal of CPU power, it's not hard to spot if MShelper is on your Mac. Click on the CPU tab under Activity Monitor on your computer. If MShelper has infected your MacBook, it'll show up at the top of the list of applications with an extremely high CPU usage.
OSX/MaMiOSX/MaMi is malware that allows hackers to capture sensitive information by redirecting data traffic through malicious servers. Through OSX/MaMi, hackers hijack Domain Name System (DNS) servers and change the DNS settings on your Mac. This malware allows attackers to perform many harmful tasks such as stealing login credentials, uploading and downloading files, and spying on your internet traffic.
What Is Malware Browser GuardWhile OSX/MaMi is nearly undetectable, experts say that it's not yet been used to target Mac users on a widespread basis. Victims of this malware encounter it through targeted email phishing scams. A sign that your Mac has been infected by OSX/MaMi is a change in its DNS settings. A MacBook infected with this malware often shows these two addresses: 82.163.143.135 and 82.163.142.137.
Tips for Safeguarding Macs Against MalwareWhile Apple does an amazing job of guarding Macs against common security threats, it just can't stop every determined hacker who looks at its devices as a challenge.
Here are some top tips for shoring up security for your Mac:
Avoid opening spam emails and attachments.
Don't download questionable files.
Install ad-blocking applications.
Create frequent system backups (Time Machine).
Install the latest OS and application updates.
Manage data.
Install a security suite (Antivirus, firewall, browser destination monitoring).
User VPN software when connected to public or untrusted networks.
Stay protectedSubscribing to a comprehensive security suite service is one of the most effective steps that you can take to safeguard your Apple devices, financial information, and privacy while online. McAfee partners with industry, IT experts, and the user community to deliver the most powerful cybersecurity solutions on the market.
Check more information about our latest security products.
References
Anti Malware Machttps://www.macworld.co.uk/feature/mac-software/mac-viruses-list-3668354/
https://macpaw.com/how-to/known-mac-viruses-malware-security-flaws
http://factmyth.com/factoids/apple-macs-cant-get-viruses-or-malware/
https://www.businessinsider.com/apple-mac-vs-windows-pc-why-i-chose-macbook-2018-3?op=1
https://www.iphonelife.com/content/can-iphones-get-viruses-how-to-detect-remove-malware-viruses-your-iphone
https://gigaom.com/2005/06/24/viruses-on-mac-os-x/
https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-get-rid-of-virus-on-mac?op=1
https://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000737.htm
https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/does-your-mac-need-antivirus/
https://www.macworld.co.uk/feature/mac/security-firewall-3643100/
https://www.enigmasoftware.com/cookieminer-removal/
https://macdailynews.com/2019/01/31/new-cookieminer-macos-malware-swipes-your-cookies-to-steal-your-cryptocurrency/
https://9to5mac.com/2019/01/31/cookieminer/
https://www.pcrisk.com/removal-guides/14414-cookieminer-malware-mac
https://blog.checkpoint.com/2017/04/27/osx-malware-catching-wants-read-https-traffic/
https://www.intego.com/mac-security-blog/new-osxshlayer-malware-variant-found-using-a-dirty-new-trick/
https://www.howtogeek.com/171993/macros-explained-why-microsoft-office-files-can-be-dangerous/
https://www.myantispyware.com/2018/05/18/how-to-remove-mshelper-malware-from-mac-virus-removal-guide/
https://lifehacker.com/how-to-deal-with-mshelper-the-latest-mac-malware-1826142837
Nowadays, Macs are part of the work-from-home workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you've brought a Mac from the office to home, it's likely your IT department has already set it up to meet your company's security policies. But what if you're enlisting a Mac already at home to do duty for your company? You need to outfit it for business, to protect it and your company from infections and snooping, while ensuring it continues to run smoothly over time.
Guard Your Mac Against Malware Windows 10Here are 21 tips for staying secure, private, and productive while working from home on your Mac—while also making sure your personal 'helpdesk' is in place, should you run into problems while doing your work.
How to guard against viruses and cyber threats on your MacWhile good security habits are important for all Mac users (since, contrary to popular opinion, Macs are as vulnerable to malicious attacks as PCs), you need to take special care when working from home on your Mac because you'll be interacting with your company's applications and platforms over the internet. Start your 'security upgrade' with the Mac itself, to keep it free of viruses and malware. Make sure your security checklist includes the following:
Secure Your Mac. Ensure your Mac is in a secure, safe place, where family members can't shoulder surf or use it, then set up a work account on your Mac (separate from your personal account), complete with a unique, complex password (disable automatic login), with only work-approved apps active on the account. Set the Mac to automatically lock one minute after sleep or your screen saver begins. Then turn on the Mac's Firewall (if it's not already on) and enable Stealth Mode, which will block incoming network requests from test applications.
Keep Up to Date. Keep your Mac OS system, Web browser, and main work apps (e.g., Microsoft Office) up to date. Application updates often contain security improvements as well as bug fixes.
Be Communication-Cautious. Use your messaging and email apps only for work, so as not to contaminate them with unexpected communications from friends, family, or strangers. Be particularly aware of phishing emails with potentially bad links and attachments, or with buttons to 'help you log into' online accounts to allegedly adjust or renew some crucial account data. Credential data theft can be a doorway not only to the data on your Mac, but to your company's online systems.
Install Antivirus. Install endpoint security software on your Mac, if you don't already have it. The solution should protect you from Web threats and when downloading files, and in the event something malicious lands on your disk, its scanning technology will help you remove the infection. The best endpoint protection will protect you and your files proactively from ransomware as well.
Trend Micro Mac Endpoint Security solutions include:
Trend Micro Ad Block One. Blocks ads and popups in your Safari browser.
Trend Micro Antivirus One. Protects your Mac from adware, ransomware, spyware, and malware.
Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac. Offers a full-protection solution for your Mac. When you install Antivirus for Mac, your endpoint security includes the Trend Micro Toolbar for Web Threat Protection, Fraud Buster for protection from phishing in Microsoft Outlook, and Folder Shield for protecting sensitive files from encryption by ransomware.
How to guard your privacy on MacNext, you need to make sure your work remains private. This means creating a 'chain of privacy' that extends from your Mac over the internet to your company's servers, so that each link in the chain is 'locked' to ensure your company data remains private.
Harden Your Mac. Enable FileVault (which encrypts your data), making sure you secure but remember your login password or recovery key; otherwise your data will become inaccessible. This ensures that if your Mac is stolen, the thief won't have access to your company's data.
Protect Your Router. Most routers come with default settings (Admin and Password), which can make your router vulnerable to hacker attacks. Change the default Admin and Password on the router to strong, unique alphanumeric strings.
Encrypt Your Network. Use an Ethernet connection from your Mac to the router; or if you must, a WPA-2 encrypted Wi-Fi connection with unique password access. And consider moving your family and their devices to the guest network, if your router supports the same WPA-2 protection for guests.
Deploy Network Security. Deploy a network security solution, to protect all the smart devices in your home network, since a breach on any device (e.g., your smart speaker, your security camera) could affect the privacy of all your devices, including your work Mac. The network security solution should enable you to block incoming connections from remote-access software and to manage your family's devices.
Use a VPN. This ensures a secure and private tunnel between the Mac on your home network and your company's servers, encrypting your data from the moment it's transmitted.
Use Strong Authentication. Use strong authentication whenever possible, both locally on your Mac and for online account logins. This can include Single-Sign On (SSO) solutions, PINs, Facial Recognition and Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) tools.
Use Secure Video Conferencing. For team conference calls/video meetings, make sure your chosen solution has end-to-end encryption and proper access controls. Consider using headphones to better privatize your teammates' conversation.
Use a Password Manager. This ensures the privacy of all your company login credentials, since you don't want to store them in your browser, where they can be hacked.
Use Cloud Sync; Encrypt and Detach Local Backups. You're probably accustomed to using iCloud for cloud sync/backup, but if you're already using Microsoft Office, consider using OneDrive for Business, since it's integrated with Office. And don't use a USB memory stick for backup. Instead, when you're doing your weekly local backup via Time Machine, use a hard drive that can be disconnected and locked when your backup is finished.
Trend Micro Mac Privacy/Security solutions include:
Trend Micro Home Network Security. Ensures your network and all the smart devices on it are secure, while providing Android and iOS apps to manage the network.
Trend Micro VPN Proxy One / WiFi Protection. VPN Proxy One protects your Mac and iOS devices with an emphasis on Privacy, while WiFi Protection emphasizes Security across all four platforms, including Mac, iOS, Windows and Android devices.
Trend Micro Password Manager for Mac. Trend Micro's Password Manager is available for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices. Synch your passwords across all platforms.
Tips and tricks to maximize your MacWorking from home means contending with home distractions (though working in the office has its own set of distractions too). Staying productive therefore includes setting good work and break habits, physically optimizing your work-from-home Mac setup, and keeping your Mac in good working order. Effective and productive remote working, when it comes setting up good work habits, using efficiency maximizing tools, and separating work from home activities, is a whole topic in itself. Here we include only those tips that directly affect the healthy operation and optimization of your Mac:
Deploy a Second Display. Hook up a large or second monitor to your Mac, for increased workspace. New MacBook users on Catalina MacOS can also attach an iPad with iOS 13 via Sidecar for use as a second monitor.
Hook Up iPhone Calling to Your Mac. For efficiency's sake, when your iPhone and Mac are on the same Wi-Fi network, you can make phone calls with your Mac by tying it to your iPhone and its cellular plan. The microphone and speakers of your Mac will be enlisted in the call. Ensure your Mac's Contacts app includes your business contact cards and for easy Mac-assisted calling to your associates.
Use Dictation. Now's the chance for you to use the built-in dictation tools on your Mac (and iOS) to speed up writing letters, emails, memos, etc.
Use Web Apps. Use the Web version of your office apps when possible; e.g., Microsoft Office 365, which includes Web Outlook, Word, Calendar, People, Sharepoint, Planner, Notes, OneDrive, etc. for efficient collaboration, reverting to the installed desktop apps when necessary. This can reduce the data footprint on your Mac.
Periodically Optimize Your Mac. Every computer slows down over time, especially when doing heavy-duty work, due to system and application clutter, as well as duplication of files. Your home Mac may also be a bit short on memory and CPU power, so periodic use of Mac optimization tools, Apple's or a third-party's, can help ensure your Mac stays up to speed for maximum productivity.
Trend Micro Performance tools include:
Trend Micro Cleaner One Pro for Mac. This solution can help you monitor and clean the Memory, CPU, and Network Usage on your Mac. Its System Optimizer tools include complete file cleanup and a shredder for junk, big, and duplicate files, as well as a tool for controlling apps upon startup.
How to get remote computer assistance for your MacFinally, should things go wrong at any time with your working Mac setup, you need to make sure to have a work-from-home 'Help Desk' in place for when you need it. Download new itunes for mac. This can include the following:
Enlist your IT Department. Easy connection and a contact to your IT Department for device, network, and app requirements, as well as tech support for problems that may arise during your workday, is critical.
Utilize Vendor Helpdesks. Use the community forums and chat services of your Mac, network, and app vendors. Apple provides its own Mac Support, along with Mac Service and Repair for Macs under warranty or for customers with AppleCare+.
Purchase Support Services. Optional support services you purchase can help ensure the top-notch security and operation of your Mac, your network, and your workflow.
Trend Micro Solutions include:
Trend Micro Home Support. You can obtain technical support for all your Trend Micro-centric application needs using Trend Micro's eSupport page, also known as Home Support. Note too that Air Support, which includes app log transfer, online engineer help, and email, can be initiated through the Trend Micro apps themselves through the Help screen.
Trend Micro Premium Support Services. Trend Micro provides both Premium Service and Ultimate Service Bundles, which includes support for your Mac. Services include 24×7 emergency assistance, problem fixing, virus and spyware removal, and PC security and health check service for up to 4 devices with Trend Micro Security installed, including Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac.

That's it! These tips should get you started on the road to staying secure, private, and productive, while running smoothly, as you work from home on your Mac. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are doing just that. Now is the time to keep your working Mac working for you!
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