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Macs Hit By First Ransomware

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The typically secure Mac platform has been hit by a ransomware-- version 2.90 of the Transmission BitTorrent client is actually infected with malware, and poses nasty consequences to users.

Mac OSXAccording to Palo Alto Networks security researchers this is the first functioning example of such malware (specifically "KeRanger") to attack OS X. Thankfully the Transmission developers quickly realised the situation, and users are urged to use the Activity Monitor to delete KeRanger and related processes.

In addition, Apple has already revoked a "a digital certificate from a legitimate Apple developer that enabled the rogue software to install on Macs."

As the name might suggest, Ransomware holds data stored on infected computers at ransom. Retrieving said data requires payment in hard-to-trace digital currencies for an electronic key. According to security experts ransoms total at "hundreds of millions" of dollars annually.

KeRanger lurks quietly in infected computers for 3 days before it starts rendering files inaccessible through encryption. Post-encryption it demands a ransom of 1 bitcoin, currently worth around $400.

Go New OS X Ransomware KeRanger Infected Transmission BitTorrent Client Installer