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Showing posts with label Apple Security. Show all posts
User Data
Apple MacOS Apple Security Cyber Security Data Privacy data security Gatekeeper Malware Threat Personal Data Russian User Data

New macOS Malware Threat: What Apple Users Need to Know

 

Recently, the Moonlock Lab cybersecurity team discovered a macOS malware strain that can easily evade detection, posing a significant threat to users' data privacy and security. The infection chain for this malware begins when a Mac user visits a website in search of pirated software. 

On such sites, users might encounter a file titled CleanMyMacCrack.dmg, believing it to be a cracked version of the popular Mac cleaning software, CleanMyMac. When this DMG file is launched on the computer, it executes a Mach-O file, which subsequently downloads an AppleScript designed to steal sensitive information from the infected Mac. Once the malware infects a macOS computer, it can perform a variety of malicious actions. It collects and stores the Mac owner's username and sets up temporary directories to hold stolen data before exfiltration. The malware extracts browsing history, cookies, saved passwords, and other sensitive data from web browsers. It also identifies and accesses directories that commonly contain cryptocurrency wallets. 

Additionally, it copies macOS keychain data, Apple Notes data, and cookies from Safari, gathers general user information, system details, and metadata, and then exfiltrates all this stolen data to threat actors. Moonlock Lab has linked this macOS malware to a well-known Russian-speaking threat actor, Rodrigo4. This hacker has been active on the XSS underground forum, where he has been seen recruiting other hackers to help distribute his malware using SEO manipulation and online ads. This discovery underscores the growing threat of sophisticated malware targeting macOS users, a group often perceived as being less vulnerable to such attacks. 

Despite Apple's strong security measures, this incident highlights that no system is entirely immune to threats, especially when users are lured into downloading malicious software from untrustworthy sources. To protect yourself from such threats, it is essential to take several precautions. First and foremost, avoid downloading pirated software and ensure that you only use trusted and official sources for your applications. Pirated software often hides malware that can compromise your system's security. Installing reputable antivirus software and keeping it updated can help detect and block malware on macOS. Regularly updating your macOS and all installed applications is crucial to patch any security vulnerabilities that may be exploited by attackers. 

Additionally, exercise caution with downloads from unfamiliar websites or sources. Always verify the legitimacy of the website and the software before downloading and installing it. Enabling macOS’s built-in security features, such as Gatekeeper and XProtect, can also provide an additional layer of protection against malicious software. Gatekeeper helps ensure that only trusted software runs on your Mac, while XProtect provides continuous background monitoring for known malware. The Moonlock Lab's findings highlight the need for greater awareness and proactive measures to safeguard personal data and privacy. Users should remain vigilant and informed about the latest security threats and best practices for protecting their devices. 

By staying informed and cautious, Apple users can better protect their devices from malware and other cybersecurity threats. Awareness of the potential risks and implementing the recommended security practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to such malicious activities. As cyber threats continue to evolve, maintaining robust security measures and staying updated on the latest threats will be crucial in ensuring the safety and integrity of personal data on macOS devices.
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vigilant defense
Apple Security Cyber Security Cyber Threats digital identity protection iPhone scams MFA bombing Phishing Attacks proactive measures Scams vigilant defense

Combatting iPhone Scams: Steps Towards Enhanced Security

 

The latest revelation in the realm of iPhone scams comes in the form of MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) bombing. This sophisticated threat targeting Apple users underscores the need for heightened awareness and informed responses. Apple has promptly responded to the phishing attacks exploiting its password recovery system. The attackers, displaying adeptness, have bypassed CAPTCHA and rate limits, bombarding users with relentless MFA requests. Apple is now bolstering its defenses through backend solutions to thwart these cyber threats and ensure a safer user experience.

Contrary to common belief, changing passwords or email addresses may not offer complete protection against such attacks. This scam ingeniously targets phone numbers to evade security measures, highlighting the vulnerability of personal information readily available to scammers.

In the face of this escalating threat, vigilance is paramount. Users should approach unsolicited phone calls, especially those seeking sensitive information or one-time passwords, with caution. Regularly purging personal details from public databases can significantly reduce one's digital footprint, making it harder for scammers to exploit personal information.

The response to this threat extends beyond immediate countermeasures. There's a crucial need for Apple to enhance password recovery security measures, potentially integrating robust rate limiting into device lockdown modes. Such proactive steps, combined with a commitment to not share one-time passcodes, can strengthen defenses against current and future threats alike.

This scam is just one chapter in the ongoing saga of digital security challenges. By understanding its intricacies, users can better defend against similar threats. It's an ongoing learning process that requires vigilance and staying informed in the digital age.

Moving forward, safeguarding digital identities entails proactive defense measures. With informed decisions and a vigilant mindset, users can navigate the digital landscape securely and confidently.
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User Data Leak
App security Apple criticism Apple Security Data Breach Data Privacy iPhone iPhone Features Personal Data User Data Leak

Is iPhone’s Journal App Sharing Your Personal Data Without Permission?

 

In the digital age, where convenience often comes at the cost of privacy, the Journal app stands as a prime example of the fine line between utility and intrusion. Marketed as a tool for reflection and journaling, its functionality may appeal to many, but for some, the constant stream of notifications and data access raises legitimate concerns. 

While the Journal app offers a seemingly innocuous service, allowing users to jot down thoughts and reflections, its behind-the-scenes operations paint a different picture. Upon installation, users unwittingly grant access to a wealth of personal data, including location, contacts, photos, and more. This data serves as fodder for the app's suggestions feature, which prompts users to reflect on their daily activities. For those who engage with the app regularly, these suggestions may prove helpful, fostering a habit of mindfulness and self-reflection. 

However, for others who have no interest in journaling or who simply prefer to keep their personal data private, the constant barrage of notifications can quickly become overwhelming. The issue extends beyond mere annoyance; it touches on fundamental questions of privacy and consent in the digital realm. Users may find themselves grappling with the realisation that their every move is being tracked and analyzed by an app they never intended to use beyond a cursory exploration. 

Moreover, the implications of this data collection extend beyond the confines of the Journal app itself. As Apple's Journaling Suggestions feature allows for data sharing between journaling apps, users may inadvertently find their personal information circulating within a broader ecosystem, with potential consequences for their privacy and security. 

Fortunately, there are steps that users can take to regain control over their digital lives and mitigate the impact of unwanted notifications from the Journal app. Disabling Journaling Suggestions and revoking the app's access to sensitive data are simple yet effective measures that can help restore a sense of privacy and autonomy. Additionally, users may wish to reconsider their relationship with technology more broadly, adopting a more discerning approach to app permissions and data sharing. 

By scrutinising the terms of service and privacy policies of the apps they use, individuals can make more informed decisions about which aspects of their digital lives they are comfortable surrendering to third-party developers. Ultimately, the Journal app serves as a poignant reminder of the complex interplay between convenience and privacy in the digital age. While its intentions may be benign, its implementation raises important questions about the boundaries of personal data and the need for greater transparency and control over how that data is used. 

As users continue to grapple with these issues, it is incumbent upon developers and policymakers alike to prioritize user privacy and empower individuals to make informed choices about their digital identities. Only through concerted effort and collaboration can we ensure that technology remains a force for good, rather than a source of concern, in our increasingly connected world.
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Watering Hole attack
Apple Security Apple TV iPhone Mobile Security Security Updates Watering Hole attack

Apple Fixes Critical iOS Flaws; One Under Attack

 

Researchers discovered one significant flaw that could be exploited from the browser, allowing watering-hole assaults. 

On October 25 and 26, Apple released iOS 14.8.1, iPadOS 14.8.1, watchOS 8.1, and tvOS 15.1, fixing 24 CVEs overall. The CVEs are detailed on Apple's security website, and they include various problems in iOS components that, if abused, may result in arbitrary code execution, sometimes with kernel privileges that would allow an intruder to reach the core of the operating system.

In one incident of a memory-corruption issue in IOMobileFrameBuffer for Apple TV, Apple stated that it is "aware of a report that this problem may have been actively exploited ", a "maybe" that researchers substantiated. 

This one is especially concerning because researchers have previously discovered that the issue is exploitable via the browser, making it "ideal for one-click & waterholing mobile attacks," as per the mobile security firm ZecOps earlier this month. 

A watering-hole attack occurs when a threat actor places malware on websites that may attract a target in the hopes that someone may ultimately drop in and become infected. Justifiably, Apple keeps information confidential that may aid further attackers to create damage and attack. This flaw might allow an application to run arbitrary code with kernel privileges. 

Apple stated earlier this year that it would give users a choice: they could either update to iOS 15 as soon as it was available, or they could stay on iOS 14 and get essential security updates until they were ready to upgrade. 

In context with the reason behind the prompt decision, there have been speculations that it had something to do with an "urban mythology" about Apple deliberately slowing down older phones to entice consumers to upgrade. 

Maybe it's simply a popular conspiracy idea, but it's based on legal comeuppance, at least in terms of battery life: In 2017, Apple admitted to slowing down phones in order to prevent outdated batteries from abruptly shutting down devices. In November of last year, the corporation was fined $113 million to resolve an investigation into what was known as iPhone “batterygate.”
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Smuggling
Anonymous Hackers Apple Security iPhone Hacks Production Prototypes Smuggling

Hackers use stolen Apple prototypes to break into iPhone


Apple's production lines are so massive that it's easy to imagine iPhones being smuggled out of there.

We all know the story of the prototype iPhone 4 that was left at a bar, spoiling what could have been one of the biggest surprises in Apple history. But have you heard the one about the stolen prototype iPhones that are still winding up in unintended hands — in this case, hackers bent on finding ways to break into Apple’s operating system?

As per a report, some of the most prominent iOS hackers have made use of prototype iPhones to break into iOS.

Just like every smartphone maker, Apple also develops a prototype or 'dev-fused' iPhone for testing different technologies, modems, chips.

If you are an iPhone user, chances are that you know about Cydia, the jailbroken app store for iPhone and iPads. While Jailbreaking is a type of hack that is mostly used to sideload paid apps for free, there are other types of hacks as well. Hacks that are either much more problematic or useful, depending on which side of the hack one is in. Apple phones come with a Secure Enclave Processor (SEP) that encrypts sensitive data on the phone and is set-up as a separate entity. Motherboard investigated how some of the best hackers were able to get study the chip and the answer is said to be a “dev-fused” iPhone, which is an iPhone that was lifted before finishing the production process.

As per the report, these dev-fused iPhones are pre-jailbroken devices in which many security features are disabled. This is so that researchers can test them easily but these devices were never intended to get out of Apple’s reach.

The Motherboard report says there’s now a gray market for “dev-fused” iPhones and each product sells for thousands of dollars. Why? Because they help hackers, security researchers crack iPhones and find critical vulnerabilities in them.

Gaining root access to these pre-production iPhones is said to be much easier than doing the same on a commercially available iPhone.
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Password Crackers
Apple Security iPhone Hacks Password Crackers

Apple refutes claim of iPhone passcode hack


Apple has dismissed claims made by security researcher Matt Hickey who said he had found a way to bypass iPhone security protections to enter passcodes as many times as needed.

Hickey, co-founder of cyber security firm Hacker House, had tweeted a video on Friday showing how this can be done by sending a stream of all possible combinations to the device, which will trigger an interrupt request.


He explained that if all combinations are sent in one go using keyboard inputs while the device is plugged in instead of with pauses in between tries, it will trigger an interrupt request that takes precedence over everything else on the device.

However, Apple has since come out and refuted the claim and a spokesperson on Saturday said, "The recent report about a passcode bypass on iPhone was in error, and a result of incorrect testing." 

Retracting his previous position, Hickey tweeted on Sunday that devices are still protected from brute-force attacks as not all passcodes that are being tested are sent.


This was in reference to a previous tweet by Stefan Esser, CEO of security firm Antid0te UG, where he explained that the command to erase iPhone data after 10 tries wasn’t triggered because the various combinations were all “ignored” and counted as a single try.


“The device doesn’t actually try those passcodes until you pause,” Stefan tweeted.

Aside from its initial statement, Apple has not provided any further explanations. The company is planning on including a feature called USB Restricted Mode in its upcoming iOS 12 update that will protect iPhones and iPads from USB-related exploits.

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Application Vulnerability
Apple Security Application Vulnerability

How the Mackeeper failed to secure Mac


Mackeeper, the program designed to keep Mac computers secure suffers from a critical remote code execution vulnerability.

This flaw lies in the lack of input validation during the handling of custom URLs by the program. It allows hackers to execute arbitrary commands with root privilege with little to no user interaction. It can happen when users visited specially crafted webpages in the Safari browser.

If the user had already provided their password to MacKeeper during normal course of operation of the program, the user will not be alerted for their password prior to the execution of the arbitrary command.

If the user did not previously authenticate, they will be prompted to enter their authentication details, however, the text that appears for the authentication dialogue can be manipulated to appear as anything, so the user might not realize the true consequences of the action.

The vulnerability, quite possibly a zero-day one was discovered by security researcher Braden Thomas who released a demonstration link as proof-of-concept (POC) through which the Mackeeper program was automatically un-installed upon simply clicking the external link. 

Mackeeper is a controversial program amongst the Mac users owing to its pop-up and advertisements, but apparently has 20 million downloads worldwide.

The vulnerability existed even in  the latest version 3.4. The company has advised users to run Mackeeper update tracker and install 3.4.1 or later. For users who have not updated, they can use a browser other than Safari or remove the custom URL scheme handler from Mackeeper's info.plist file.
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Security News
Apple Security Security News

Recover forgotten login passwords using Apple Power adapters

The New Scientist has uncovered a new patent from Apple that stores password recovery secrets into peripheral devices , including a power adapter. The patent aims to stop thieves of laptops, iPads and iPhones gaining unauthorised access to the portable computing devices.

The application would prompt you to plug in your specific power adapter to confirm your identity. The memory chip on your power charger could store your password secret - for instance, an encrypted version of your password reminder hint. If you've forgotten your password you could just plug your laptop into the wall, to receive the secret password hint.

The password hint can be stored in other peripheral devices such as printer, an external monitor or a wireless router.

plugin for retrieving password

    New Scientist said in their Blog:
    The technology is predicated on the fact that when you lose a laptop, or have it stolen, you don't tend to lose the power adapter as well. So it makes the power adapter a critical part of the recovery routine for forgotten passwords.

    In US patent filing 2012/0005747 Apple proposes a power adapter whose transformer unit has a small memory module built into it. This stores either an encrypted password (or recovery question) whose key is stored on the laptop or smartphone. This way only the correct computer or phone can access the recovery data. For added security, part of the encrypted password could reside on a network server, too.

    There's a clear need for this, says Apple: "If the password is not easily and conveniently recoverable, the consumer is likely to choose either not to use a password at all or to use a trivial password. Both choices increase the threat of data loss," it says in the patent.

    Of course, once the bad guys know the adapter is important, they'll steal that too if it's available - but Apple suggests further security can be added by storing some of the password recovery data in other (not generally mobile) peripherals, like printers and Wi-Fi routers, too.

    The full patent application can be found here:
    http://www.pat2pdf.org/patents/pat20120005747.pdf

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