Researchers at cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes have discovered a new malware campaign that targets users of macOS. This advanced malware, named Silver Sparrow, has already infected nearly 30,000 Mac devices in over 150 countries. The concerning aspect of this malware is that it is specifically designed to run natively on Apple’s latest hardware with the new M1 chip.
Silver Sparrow is a mysterious malware as its precise purpose remains unclear. It does not exhibit any malicious behavior on infected systems, leading researchers to believe that it might be waiting for the right time to strike. Furthermore, the malware includes a self-destruct mechanism that can remove itself from infected devices once certain conditions are met, which further complicates analysis efforts.
This malware campaign is unique due to its high infection rate and cross-geographical prevalence. According to Malwarebytes, this indicates that it is a substantial threat that demands attention. Although the precise mechanism of infection is yet to be determined, it is suspected that Silver Sparrow spreads through malicious JavaScript via online advertisements. However, the exact method of delivery and initial compromise remain unknown.
Apple has taken measures to address the issue by revoking the certificates associated with the malware that allowed it to run on M1-powered devices. Additionally, Apple’s built-in security systems, such as Gatekeeper and Malware Removal Tool, have also been updated to detect and remove Silver Sparrow. However, the speed and scale of this malware’s spread demonstrate the constant need for improved security measures to combat evolving threats.
