Have you noticed intrusive pop-up ads or unwanted browser extensions recently when browsing online? There‘s a good chance your Mac may have been infected by Shlayer – currently the most widespread malware strain targeting these devices.
Don‘t worry – I‘ll explain what makes this threat so successful, how to detect infections plus the best methods for removing Shlayer and securing your system. By the end, you‘ll have the insights needed to protect your Mac.
The Rising Scourge of Mac Malware
First things first – no device or operating system is inherently immune to cyber attacks in 2023. For years Apple irresponsibly promoted Macs as malware-proof, leading users to abandon safe browsing habits.
Shlayer helps debunk these myths. Responsible estimates suggest 29-50% of active Macs have hosted Shlayer infections.
Cyber criminals increasingly focus on Mac environments for two reasons:
Growing Market Share: MacOS runs over 25% of personal computers globally.
False Sense of Security: Lack of awareness around threats leaves many Mac users vulnerable.
What Exactly is Shlayer and How Did It Emerge?
Shlayer belongs to a class of malware called "trojans". Unlike viruses or worms which self-propagate, trojans require users to unknowingly download them.
Once installed, Shlayer‘s main purpose is fetching additional harmful software – usually intrusive adware. This generates fraudulent ad revenue for attackers when users are forced to view unwanted ads.
Shlayer is believed to have first been distributed by a group called "VeryMal" in 2018 according to research by Mac-focused antivirus firm Intego. They speculate VeryMal includes hackers drawn to targeting Apple devices due to growing market share coupled with neglected defenses.
While many associate malware with Windows PCs only, Shlayer helped transform this perception. Let‘s explore exactly how it works and how to stay safe.
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