For years, Mac users have enjoyed the privilege of enhanced security, thanks to Apple’s walled garden. So, although there are sporadic cases of digital threats affecting Mac computers, macOS did not face something like the WannaCry ransomware attack, which wreaked havoc on Windows PCs across the globe. However, according to some recent reports, this trend is about to change.

LockBit Ransomware Targets Apple Silicon Macs

As reported by Wired, MalwareHunterTeam—a security research group that focuses on ransomware threats—has revealed new information regarding a ransomware designed to infiltrate macOS systems. This ransomware threat is created by the LockBit ransomware gang, the notorious group behind many prominent ransomware attacks. So far, the Russian ransomware group has targeted Windows and Linux-based systems, but that is changing.

coding on laptop and smartphone

According to MalwareHunterTeam, this relatively new project from LockBit is targeting Mac devices running Apple Silicon chips. However, further research into the issue also revealed that the ransomware is currently not in a position to bypass Apple’s security layers and infect macOS systems. But we cannot ignore that a notorious ransomware group has put Mac devices on their hit list.

Whether these ransomware test builds would reach completion is a different question altogether. On a more important note, a report from Bleeping Computer sought feedback from the LockBit ransomware gang, who confirmed that an encryptor for macOS is in active development.

So, as much as we hope that the LockBit ransomware for Mac fails to reach deployment-quality version, it makes sense to stay prepared.

How to Protect Your Mac From Ransomware

Considering the situation, the best you can do as a Mac user is to protect your device from general ransomware. But there is no single-click solution to protect your Mac from these threats. Instead, you have to follow some standard security etiquette and educate yourself about how these attacks work.

1. Download Apps Only From Official Sources

Ransomware, like legitimate apps, needs to be installed on your Mac before they can work. However, it is more likely that a fraudulent app you install leaves a backdoor—which ransomware uses for installation. To avoid this situation, you must download apps from either the App Store or official websites.

It is also a good practice to check the reviews of a not-so-popular app before you install it. By doing so, you can make sure that you do not install potential malware. Fortunately, macOS will warn you when trying to install an app that it cannot verify.

You should also pay extra attention while installing specific apps like system cleaners and VPNs.

2. Keep Your Mac Updated

installing a software update for Mac

Apple does a decent job of keeping all its operating systems safe from the latest threats. However, it means you should install those (often annoying) macOS updates. Sure, macOS updates can take more time, but they offer so much value in terms of security and privacy.

For instance, even though Apple is yet to comment on the case of the LockBit ransomware, the company will surely take steps to avoid any potential infection by the threat. So you need to make sure that you keep your Mac up to date.

It is also a good idea to always run the latest version of third-party apps so that their vulnerabilities are not used by threat actors.

3. Use an Antimalware Suite

If you regularly struggle with recognizing potential threats to your Mac, you should consider using antimalware suites on your Mac. These security utilities will scan your Mac for potential malware and notify you when you install something unsecure.

You can choose between free antivirus programs for Mac or paid options. In most cases, these security suites offer additional features like security browser extensions. These add-ons will ensure that you do not download anything fraudulent or malicious from the internet.

So, if you pick an efficient antivirus program for Mac, you can stay secure from not only ransomware but also other major threats.

Keeping Your Mac Secure

While only time can tell whether ransomware for Mac becomes a widespread issue, it does not hurt to take some steps to keep your Mac secure. Contrary to popular opinion, macOS is vulnerable to many types of malware that can cause data loss and privacy threats, among other issues.