MacPaw – Moonlock 2024 macOS Threat Report

Additional Info

CompanyMacPaw
Websitehttps://macpaw.com/
Company size (employees)500 to 999
Headquarters RegionEurope

Overview

Apple’s macOS has long been perceived as a nearly malware-free environment. However, with macOS experiencing a remarkable 60% market share increase in just three years, cybercriminals have shifted their focus, leading to a 100% surge in macOS malware specimens in 2023 alone (source: Objective-See). Despite this escalating threat, 57% of Mac users, as revealed by Moonlock’s Mac Security Survey, either agree or are unsure about the statement that “Malware does not exist on macOS.” This dangerous misconception leaves millions of users vulnerable to cyberattacks, underscoring the urgent need for action.

In December 2024, Moonlock, a cybersecurity wing of MacPaw, released its Moonlock 2024 macOS Threat Report (https://moonlock.com/moonlock-2024-macos-threat-report), providing a comprehensive analysis of the rapidly evolving macOS malware landscape. This report uncovers critical cybersecurity trends, offers actionable insights, and raises awareness about emerging threats targeting macOS users.

The report also emphasizes the growing need for collaboration within the cybersecurity community. By analyzing real-world attack scenarios and providing insights into the behavior and tactics of macOS-targeting adversaries, the Moonlock report is a valuable resource for macOS security professionals and organizations aiming to stay ahead of evolving threats.

The Moonlock 2024 macOS Threat Report has been widely recognized, gaining media attention in leading publications like TechRadar, 9to5Mac, Apple Insider, TL;DR Infosec, Risky Business, CSO Online etc. This media acknowledgment brought awareness of macOS threats to an even broader audience. The report was quoted and mentioned by Objective-See (macOS security community) in its Yearly report, by cybersecurity journalist from 9to5mac and many other macOS experts on X (https://x.com/moonlock_lab/status/1866446573695037873).

This report exemplifies Moonlock’s mission to make the digital world a safer place for macOS users everywhere.

Key Capabilities / Features

Key findings from the Moonlock 2024 macOS Threat Report include:


- AI-Driven Malware: Cybercriminals are now using AI tools to develop sophisticated macOS malware, enabling even non-experts to launch advanced cyberattacks.


- Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS): Criminals can now purchase macOS malware kits for as little as $1,500 per month, dramatically lowering entry barriers for cybercrime and bypassing macOS defenses.


- The Rise of Stealer Malware: This growing threat targets sensitive user data, including Keychain credentials, browser information, and crypto wallets, posing serious risks to individuals and businesses alike.


How we are different

- Dedicated Focus on macOS: Unlike many competitors that prioritize broader platforms, Moonlock focuses exclusively on macOS malware, providing specialized research and insights tailored to this growing yet underserved area.


- Threat Awareness: By uncovering emerging trends such as AI-driven malware, Malware-as-a-Service, and advanced stealer malware, Moonlock raises awareness of these growing threats among both the expert community and everyday users while also addressing dangerous misconceptions within these groups.


- Commitment to Knowledge Sharing: Moonlock openly shares its findings with the cybersecurity community, fostering collaboration, raising awareness about macOS threats, and standing out as a transparent and community-driven team of researchers.


  • Vote for this Nomination
    (click the thumbs-up icon to cast your vote)

Promote this Nomination

Browse Award Nominations