Threat actors behind the LockBit ransomware operation have developed new artifacts that can encrypt files on devices running Apple’s macOS operating system.
The development, which was reported by the MalwareHunterTeam over the weekend, appears to be the first time a big-game ransomware crew has created a macOS-based payload. Additional samples identified by vx-underground show that the macOS variant has been available since November 11, 2022, and has managed to evade detection by anti-malware engines until now.
LockBit is a prolific cybercrime crew with ties to Russia that has been active since late 2019, with the threat actors releasing two major updates to the locker in 2021 and 2022.
An analysis of the new macOS version and Transparency, Consent, and Control that prevent the execution of unauthorized code and require apps to seek users’ permission to access protected files and data.
The findings, despite the artifacts’ overall bugginess, are a definite sign that threat actors are increasingly setting their sights on macOS systems.
A LockBit representative has since confirmed to Bleeping Computer that the macOS encryptor is “Actively being developed,” indicating that the malware is likely to pose a serious threat to the platform.
