It has long been assumed that computers running macOS are of no interest to hackers because of the complex security system, which is almost impossible to get around, and also because of their low prevalence in comparison with Windows PCs. However, as practice shows, Mac users are increasingly becoming victims of malicious applications that block access to a computer and require a ransom for unlocking an expensive device.
According to users who have experienced malicious applications attacks, many such apps show system alerts. They inform users that the computer is blocked and that it is as a forced measure to hinder the activities of virus programs. As a rule, after blocking, an alert appears on the screen about numerous infects found your computer. This alert has a phone number with a recommendation to contact Apple technical support as soon as possible to remove malicious software that might prevent its use.
Mac Malware
According to Emma Williams, who was the victim of fraudsters, she was shopping online from her MacBook when she was suddenly struck by a virus attack. At the same second, she says, the computer display turned white and the message: “Your Mac has been attacked by a malware or virus. Please immediately contact Apple technical support.” A telephone number was provided.
When Emma Williams called the number, the man who introduced himself as an Apple employee was not surprised at all by the call and said that unlocking is a standard service that is provided for a flat fee of $ 200. He clarified that, in accordance with the company's policy, its employees are not allowed to accept money transfers from customers, and the only way to pay is to use iTunes gift cards.
Having dictated the codes of the purchased cards to the person, Emma hoped that her computer would work, but this did not happen. According to the person on the other end of the wire, the codes that the victim provided were invalid and new ones are required to continue the procedure. This went on three more times, until the man hung up, and Emma realized that she had been deceived.
How to protect yourself from fraudsters
In case you find yourself in the situation in which Emma foun herself, we strongly recommend that you not call the number provided in the message. Instead, go to www.apple.com and find a support phone number for your country. In case Apple representatives called you on their own, even if you did not wait for their call, simply hang up and call the number that is given on the company's website. It should also be remembered that technical support staff will never ask you to transfer money to them in any form, and all consultations are provided free of charge.