LockBit ransomware encryptors found targeting Mac devices

[Gandalf_The_Grey]

Content source

https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/lockbit-ransomware-encryptors-found-targeting-mac-devices/

The LockBit ransomware gang has created encryptors targeting Macs for the first time, likely becoming the first major ransomware operation to ever specifically target macOS.

The new ransomware encryptors were discovered by cybersecurity researcher MalwareHunterTeam who found a ZIP archive on VirusTotal that contained what appears to be all of the available LockBit encryptors.

Historically, the LockBit operation uses encryptors designed for attacks on Windows, Linux, and VMware ESXi servers. However, as shown below, this archive [VirusTotal] also contained previously unknown encryptors for macOS, ARM, FreeBSD, MIPS, and SPARC CPUs.



These encryptors also include one named 'locker_Apple_M1_64' [VirusTotal] that targets the newer Macs running on Apple Silicon. The archive also contains lockers for PowerPC CPUs, which older Macs use.

Further research by cybersecurity researcher Florian Roth found an Apple M1 encryptor uploaded to VirusTotal in December 2022, indicating that these samples have been floating around for some time.

The good news is that these encryptors are likely not ready for deployment in actual attacks against macOS devices.

Cisco Talos researcher Azim Khodjibaev told BleepingComputer that based on their research, the encryptors were meant as a test and were never intended for deployment in live cyberattacks.

While Windows has been the most targeted operating system in ransomware attacks, nothing prevents developers from creating ransomware that targets Macs.

The fact that they are being tested indicates that more advanced and optimized encryptors for these CPU architectures could come in the future.

Therefore, all computer users, including Mac owners, should practice good online safety habits, including keeping the operating system updated, avoiding opening unknown attachments and executables, and using strong and unique passwords at every site you visit.

LockBit ransomware encryptors found targeting Mac devices

The LockBit ransomware gang has created encryptors targeting Macs for the first time, likely becoming the first major ransomware operation to ever specifically target macOS.

www.bleepingcomputer.com

 

[MuzzMelbourne]

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