A recent warning from Check Point, a cybersecurity software company, highlights a serious threat to Apple Mac users, with an estimated 100 million people at risk of falling victim to malware. The malware, known as the “Banshee macOS Stealer,” is designed to operate undetected on Macs for months, stealthily stealing sensitive data such as passwords, browser credentials, and cryptocurrency wallets. Check Point’s alert is a response to the growing presence of this malicious software, which evades Apple’s built-in antivirus systems and is capable of causing significant damage.
The Banshee macOS Stealer was first identified in underground forums last year, where cybercriminals began offering it as a “stealer-as-a-service” for a price of $3,000. This malware targets Mac users by being delivered through phishing websites that masquerade as legitimate software companies, such as Chrome and Telegram. Once installed, the malware operates quietly in the background, siphoning off valuable user information without triggering alarms or being detected by the system.
One of the most concerning aspects of the Banshee malware is its ability to bypass Apple’s built-in antivirus program, XProtect. The developers of the malware reportedly used stolen code from this system, allowing it to blend in with normal system processes and remain hidden for long periods. As a result, even experienced IT professionals have difficulty identifying and removing the malware once it has infiltrated a device. This ability to evade detection has made the Banshee Stealer especially dangerous to Mac users.
Although the malware’s source code was leaked in online forums in November, improving detection efforts by antivirus systems, it also raised concerns about the evolving nature of cybercrime tactics. This development underscores the fact that no operating system, including macOS, is immune to security threats. Despite macOS’s robust security features, such as Gatekeeper and sandboxing, the Banshee Stealer serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that still exist within even the most secure platforms.
To protect against this type of malware, experts advise Mac users to remain vigilant when downloading apps and software. It’s important to verify the legitimacy of companies and their products before installation. Additionally, users should supplement macOS’s built-in antivirus protection with other security tools, such as third-party antivirus software, a VPN, and a password manager, to ensure the safety of their data and privacy.