Apple Updates XProtect to Defend Against OSX/Snake Trojan

Apple has updated its XProtect malware definitions for macOS to provide basic protection against a trojan known as OSX/Snake, reports Intego. Notably, it's been nearly a year since the trojan was first discovered.

In early May 2017, security researchers discovered that malware known by the names Snake, Turla, and Uroburos was ported from Windows to Mac. The Mac version of the malware was found inside a compromised Abode Flash Player installer or embedded in compromised torrent files posing as legitimate software. This offers a fresh reminder that you should steer clear of BitTorrent as these sites are a malware cesspool.

The update brings Apple's Malware Removal Tool to version 1.32 and detects the macOS Snake variant as OSX.4e36ae6. Additionally, the update provides detection for another piece of malware identified as OSX.127eaa6.


To make sure your XProtect malware definitions are regularly updated, choose App Store from System Preferences and select the 'Install system data files and security updates' checkbox.

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