"Even the 'Fortress' iPhone Passwords Can Be Hacked"... Malware Targets Apple Macs [Paek Jongmin's Shockwave]

Malware Spreading to Steal Passwords and Personal Information
iPhones Also at Risk If Mac Computers Are Infected
"Suspected to Be North Korean Operation"
FBI: "Be Cautious of Unsolicited Email Attachments"

There are growing concerns that Apple's Mac computers, which have been considered relatively safe from hacking attacks, are now becoming increasingly vulnerable to security threats. This concern has been heightened by a recent incident involving SK Telecom, which was targeted by malware. The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has also issued a security warning to prevent malware infections, underscoring the risks involved.

Customers visiting the Apple Store in Myeongdong, Jung-gu, Seoul, are looking at Apple's first artificial intelligence (AI) smartphone, the iPhone16. Photo by Jinhyung Kang aymsdream@

According to Forbes and other foreign media outlets on May 8, cybersecurity firm Moonlock stated in a report released on May 5 that Mac computer users are being exposed to malware distribution. The method involves prompting users to replace the driver for a component called Realtek, which is well-known for its use in audio devices, thereby installing malware. Moonlock explained that North Korean hackers are suspected of distributing this malware.

If a Mac computer is infected with this malware, information such as the computer's password, Apple ID and password, and internet browser history can be stolen. The Apple ID and password are used on both Mac computers and iPhones. Therefore, if the security of a Mac computer is compromised, iPhones can also be affected without defense. Even though iPhones are known for their strong security, such indirect hacking methods can neutralize these protections.

These hacking attempts have been occurring since April. Initially, they were delivered through social networking service (SNS) messages offering job opportunities, but later evolved into messages prompting users to update their drivers.

These hacking attempts do not represent a new or advanced form of attack; rather, they are classic techniques. U.S. intelligence agencies previously used a similar method to infiltrate Iran's nuclear facilities with the Stuxnet malware, effectively disabling them. The SK Telecom incident also began with malware infection.

A representative from Moonlock explained, "Hackers evolve by adapting existing methods in new ways, even if they do not create entirely new forms of malware."

The FBI also announced in its recently published annual Internet Crime Report that the most common cybercrimes last year were phishing, spoofing, and data theft. Most of these incidents occur through malware.

The FBI advised, "Since malware often spreads through text messages or emails impersonating well-known brands, you should never click on links distributed via emails or messages from unknown sources."