Hackers Are Using Mac Malware to Track Iranian Activists


Motherboard:

In response to more activists using Apple Mac computers instead of Windows PCs, suspected Iranian government hackers have apparently developed their own Mac-based malware, according to a new report from security researchers.

The finding highlights the constant ebb-and-flow of governments disrupting and tracking activist movements. As one group adopts a new tool or technique, state-sponsored hackers may need to adapt to get the information they're after.

The malware is called MacDownloader and poses as a fake Flash update. Once installed, it downloads additional modules to its kit and transmits information about the Mac to an attacker's server. Those contents include the Mac's keychain folder and list of installed applications, in addition to any captured system credentials.