Ransomware Now Targeting Mac Users

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The latest development is a variation on a “ransomware” program that has in the past only targeted Windows users. Ransomware — a version of malware that seemingly locks up a victim’s computer and demands a one-time payment to “unlock” the computer — usually masquerades as an official communication from the FBI. The highly visual warning usually accuses the user of downloading or illegally distributing “prohibited ” content, and requires the payment of a “fine” to unlock the machine. (Note to readers: the FBI doesn’t do this.) Agent Derek wrote a blog post about the Windows version of this security issue last year.

Hackers are now distributing a version of this malware online that targets Mac users. Fortunately, there is a fairly simple solution. To find out how to remove the malware or learn more about this, see this post in the Malware Bytes Unpacked blog.

For a longer discussion of ransomware on Mac OS computers, take a look at this thread in the Apple Support Communities.

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