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New XCSSET Malware Variant Targets Mac Users

A new XCSSET variant is infecting Macs. It's harder to remove and steals more data than before. Stay safe with these steps.

This picture shows bunch of apples in the box.
This picture shows bunch of apples in the box.

New XCSSET Malware Variant Targets Mac Users

Cybersecurity experts have uncovered a new variant of the XCSSET malware targeting Mac users. Developed by an unidentified group, this variant is designed for limited, targeted attacks, primarily infecting Xcode projects to spread the malware.

The new XCSSET variant, discovered by Microsoft Threat Intelligence, includes several submodules focused on info-stealing, file-stealing, persistence, and obfuscation. Notably, it has added an info-stealer module to exfiltrate data stored by Firefox. This variant also supports an additional persistence mechanism through LaunchDaemon entries, making it harder to remove.

The malware operates in a four-stage infection chain, using encryption and obfuscation techniques to evade detection. It runs secret AppleScripts and includes a module to monitor and substitute wallet addresses in the clipboard.

To protect against this threat, users are advised to keep their operating systems and applications updated, inspect Xcode projects for infections, verify the contents of their clipboard, use secure browsers like Firefox, and install endpoint protection software. By staying vigilant and following these best practices, Mac users can mitigate the risk posed by this new XCSSET variant.

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