It’s still early, but 2025 hasn’t become a wonderful year for MAC network security.
In less than two months, we have seen many MAC malware threats targeting Apple laptops that are often considered very secure. These threats range from floating inheritors to malware, capable of reading screenshots and stealing passwords.
Now, Microsoft has identified a resurfaced malware that has returned years later, equipped with new malicious features including stealing sensitive information such as digital wallets and data from legitimate notes applications.
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Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)
You need to know about malware
Microsoft Threat Intelligence A new version of XCSSet, a dangerous MacOS malware that is spread through infection with Xcode Projects, a file that developers use to create Mac applications. While this malware is seen only in a few attacks at the moment, it has upgraded new tricks to make detection and deletion more difficult.
One of the biggest changes is how malware covers itself. Now, it competes for its code in a more unpredictable way, making it hard for security software to identify. It also renames a part of the code to mask its true purpose so that it can be hidden for longer.
What is artificial intelligence (AI)?
Once you get infected with your Mac, the malware will remain running even after restarting the computer. It does this in two ways. First, it inserts itself into the system file that starts when the computer starts. Second, it replaces the shortcut keys of the launchpad, a tool used to open an application that runs both the real launchpad and malware using a fake version.
The malware has also found new ways to sneak into Xcode projects, making discovery even more difficult. If an infected project is shared or downloaded, the malware can be extended to other devices without the user’s awareness.
A person working on a Mac (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)
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What data can it steal?
XCSSET malware aims to steal various sensitive information from infected Macs, putting personal and financial data at risk. One of its main goals is a digital wallet for storing cryptocurrencies. If a user has an encrypted wallet on their Mac, the malware can try to access and steal funds.
It can also collect data from the Notes app, and many users store personal information, passwords and other sensitive details. If you save important data in comments, you can access and send it to the hacker.
Apart from that, malware can penetrate system information and files, meaning it can collect detailed information about the Mac itself, installed applications, and even specific files stored on the device. This may include working files, saved login credentials, or any other valuable information. Since XCSSET is a modular malware, this means that new features can be updated, it may gain more data theft over time.
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A woman working on her Mac (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)
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5 Tips to Protect Yourself from MAC Malware
Follow these basic tips to protect your Mac from the latest malware threats, including the infamous XCSSET.
1. With powerful antivirus software: Protect your Mac from XCSSET and other threats by installing powerful antivirus software on all devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing email and ransomware scams, ensuring your personal information and digital assets are secure. The choice of the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
2. Be cautious about downloads and links: Download the software only from reputable sources such as the Mac App Store or the official website of trusted developers. Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages to prompt you to download or install updates, especially if links are included. Phishing Try It is often disguised as a legal update notification or emergency message.
3. Keep the software updated: Make sure that MacOS and all installed applications are up to date. Apple frequently releases security patches and updates to resolve vulnerabilities. Enable MacOS automatic updates to maintain protection without manually checking for updates. If you need more help, please see mine Guide to keep all devices updated.
4. Use a powerful and unique password: To protect your Mac from malware, it is also crucial for all accounts and devices to use a strong, unique password. Avoid reuse of passwords on different sites or services. one Password Manager It can be very helpful here; it generates and stores complex passwords for you, making it difficult to hack.
It also tracks all passwords in one place and automatically populates them when you log in to your account, so you don’t have to remember them yourself. By reducing the number of passwords that need to be recalled, you are unlikely to reuse them, reducing the risk of security breaches. Get more details about me Best Expert Review Password Manager in 2025.
5. Use two-factor authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA For your important accounts, including your Apple ID, Google account, email and any financial services. This adds an extra step to the login process, even if the attacker has your password, it is harder for the attacker to gain access.
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Kurt’s key points
Mac users no longer afford to be complacent. Gone are the days when Macs were considered “safe by default”. Cyber criminals have escalated, moving beyond basic adware toward comprehensive information stealers. They are swiping passwords, hijacking authentication cookies, blocking OTPs, and even clearing their encrypted wallets. Threats become smarter and more aggressive, and no platform is forbidden. Staying ahead means taking safety seriously, because the bad guys are certainly.
Do you think Apple has done enough to protect users from the increase in malware? Let’s write to us cyberguy.com/contact.
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