New ransomware attacking Macs

If your small business uses Macs, you need to be sure you have strong back-up protocols in place. A new ransomware, MacRansom, is being used to attach MAC computers. Cyber criminals can get a copy for the asking from the creator, through an email address. The creator is providing the malware to hackers as ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS).

According researchers at Fortinet, a cybersecurity software company, the creator is leveraging hackers with even a low level of hacking ability or experience to be his/her distributors. The ransom victim is asked for about $700 for the decryption keys and the creator pays the distributing hacker 30% when a victim pays. It seems the malware is not particularly sophisticated, but it will still lock up a victim’s files.

What you should do

Businesses using Macs need to leverage the same cyber security measures for their data as businesses using Window computers. At minimum, you should:

• Maintain multiple back-ups – one of which should be stored offsite

• Patch your system as soon as new releases for any software is available

• Educate staff regarding phishing

• Regularly and frequently (ideally automatically) scan Macs and backup devices for vulnerabilities

About the Author - Carolyn Schrader is a seasoned cybersecurity professional and founder of the Cyber Security Group Inc., providing corporate cybersecurity services to high profile clients.