Fake Chrome and Safari updates appear on Internet: They can steal banking data from Apple computers

Fake updates for Chrome and Safari browsers for Apple computers have appeared on the Internet. I have installed the Atomic macOS Stealer (AMOC) virus, with which hackers can steal user banking data and passwords.

According to 9to5Mac, this virus was first noticed in the spring of 2023, and it poses a serious threat to the security of Mac users.

Attackers have now begun using clever tactics by disguising malware as Safari and Chrome browser updates. Dubbed ClearFake, the attack tricks users through a Google Search banner ad asking them to download a browser update. When the user agrees to install the “update,” the AMOS virus is installed on their device and begins to steal confidential data.

How to avoid problems with this and other similar viruses?

Cybersecurity experts recommend, first of all, not to download applications and their updates from untrusted sources. The likelihood of encountering problems when downloading something from an official source is, of course, far from zero, but it is significantly lower than when downloading anything from an unknown site.

It is also recommended that you do not allow applications to bypass macOS GateKeeper protection if such prompts appear, and that you use antivirus software for additional protection.