A new Mac malware has been identified that comes disguised as a Microsoft Word Document. It then forces you to download spyware onto your Mac.
The exploit works by having unsuspecting users open a specially-crafted Word document that includes macros that run when the file is opened. (Source)
It must be noted the “macros” is an outdated MS Word technology, and it’s likely that it will be disabled by default in most latest updates of MS Office.
However, if it’s not, we request you to disable all macros if that option ever pops up while opening a file.
AppleInsider observes the following about the macros:
“The notice warns that macros could contain viruses, and gives the option to continue opening the file with and without macros enabled, as well as to back out from opening it at all.”
The file in question is a Word Document titled: “U.S. Allies and Rivals Digest Trump’s Victory – Carnegie Endowment for International Peace”
- Word malware was usually found in Windows. This is the first time that it came forward as a Mac malware.
- As a Mac malware, this is not the first instance of spyware loading from Windows apps.
- “Overall the malware isn’t particularly advanced as it relies on user interaction, as well as need macros to be enabled,” notes Gadgets NDTV.
- Earlier last month, another Mac malware was found that was disguised as an Adobe update.
We strongly advice you to install and update software only from the trusted sources.
It’s also a good practice to keep updating your apps and OS as when a download is available form the AppStore. This will keep your system the best chance to be protected from any Mac malware floating around the internet.
