Mac Gatekeeper Vulnerability Attracts Swarm Of Malware Attackers

Security experts recently found that Apple’s Mac computers are currently vulnerable to malware attacks due to a Gatekeeper vulnerability. Through this unpatched problem, hackers can easily breach a Mac device’s security. Apple is currently working on addressing the issue.

Mac Chief Security Analyst Joshua Long confirmed that the unpatched macOS Gatekeeper vulnerability has become the gateway for malware attacks, as per iPhonehacks. The malware that is currently able to get through the Gatekeeper is called the “OSX/Linker” and it comes from the group that made the “OSX/Surfbuyer” adware.

The Gatkeeper security system is supposed to screen the downloaded apps from the internet before allowing them into the Mac system. However, the new malware bypasses this through shared drivers and enters the Mac devices’ safe areas where the security system never scans for threats.

The problem was also noted in May according to security researcher Filippo Cavallarin through iPhonehacks. However, Apple has yet to release a patch for this issue even though it was brought up to the company.

The report also noted that the OSX/Linker malware has yet to spread massively. While this malware has yet to affect many users, other malicious malware developers are also said to be working on ways to infiltrate the Mac system through the same vulnerability.

Apple needs to fix the Gatekeeper issue before it grows into a larger problem. Apple’s security systems for its Mac devices are known to be the most secure compared to other operating systems. The company is known to protect its users from any malicious third-party software attempting to damage or compromise user files.

The issue could potentially be addressed in the upcoming macOS 10.15 Catalina update. The new macOS is confirmed to add new features such as dividing iTunes into separate apps for its products, locating missing devices, secondary display compatibility with iPads and voice commands.

The extent of security updates in the new macOS Catalina is yet to be disclosed, but Apple is known to be have airtight security systems. The official release of the update is scheduled to happen this coming fall. We’ve yet to know if the potential malware outbreak can endanger many devices, or be swept away once the new updates comes.