Guardz, the cybersecurity company specializing in securing and insuring SMEs, has recently uncovered a new information stealing malware called ‘ShadowVault.’ This dangerous malware can steal sensitive data from macOS-based devices, posing a significant threat to both businesses and individuals.
For a long time, information stealing malware has primarily targeted Microsoft Windows devices, as macOS was considered a more secure operating system. This led cyber threat actors to focus on developing malware and harmful tools for Windows, as it provided them with a more lucrative opportunity. However, the landscape is changing. Earlier this year, a malware called ‘Atomic’ was discovered on the dark web, exclusively targeting macOS devices. This discovery hinted at a shift in the status quo. Small and medium-sized businesses, who once believed macOS devices were the safer choice, are now at risk.
Guardz’s research team identified the ‘ShadowVault’ info-stealer in June 2023 on an underground forum known as XSS. This malicious software is designed to secretly collect sensitive information from compromised systems, including login credentials, financial details, personal identification information, and cryptocurrency wallet seed phrases. If left unchecked, this malware has the potential to cause significant damage and disrupt operations. Guardz’s team of experts has maintained anonymous avatars on the dark web to conduct research and protect SMEs from emerging cyber threats like this one. Through these efforts, Guardz was able to gain access to the exclusive forum and identify this new macOS info-stealer, initially available for rent at $500 per month.
The discovery of ‘ShadowVault’ and the emergence of macOS info-stealers on a larger scale have allowed Guardz and other cyber defenders to enhance their solutions and protect their clients from this new breed of cyber threats. Guardz has already implemented countermeasures to safeguard their clients, offering real-time threat detection and rapid response capabilities to mitigate the risks posed by the ‘ShadowVault’ malware.
Dor Eisner, CEO and Co-Founder of Guardz, emphasized the need for SMEs to prioritize their devices’ and systems’ security and avoid assuming they are not lucrative targets. In fact, SMEs are often the main victims of this new generation of cyber threats. In response to the increasing frequency of cyber-attacks, SMEs and the Managed Service Providers (MSPs) that serve them must keep their software and operating systems up to date and invest in managed device protection. Comprehensive cybersecurity solutions that include advanced threat detection and response mechanisms are crucial for businesses with limited resources.
To learn more about information stealing malware in general and ‘ShadowVault’ specifically, Guardz has shared a blog post on their website. It provides further insights into the topic and details about how businesses can protect themselves.
Guardz is a comprehensive cybersecurity and insurance solution designed specifically for SMEs. Their all-in-one platform is affordable, easy to use, and operates 24/7 to protect businesses’ digital landscapes. With cutting-edge technologies and a robust platform, Guardz continuously monitors and protects a wide range of assets, enabling businesses to react swiftly to cyber risks and providing cyber insurance for peace of mind. Founded in 2022 by Dor Eisner and Alon Lavi, along with a team of cyber and insurance experts, Guardz combines innovation, experience, and creativity to create a safer digital world for small businesses.
In an ever-evolving digital landscape, it is essential for businesses, particularly SMEs, to remain vigilant and invest in comprehensive cybersecurity solutions to safeguard their valuable data and operations against threats like ‘ShadowVault.’
