New Mac OS X ransomware

Update: Version 2.92 of Transmission has now been released. This claims to actively remove the ‘KeyRanger’ malware files from the infected Mac.

OS X users have today been hit with the first known case of Mac ‘ransomware’ malware, found in the Transmission BitTorrent client released last week. Infected versions of the app include ‘KeyRanger’ malware that will maliciously encrypt the user’s hard drive after three days of being installed. The malware then asks for payment to allow the user to decrypt the disk and access their data — the ‘ransom’.

As reported by Palo Alto Networks, Apple has already taken steps to curb the spread of the malware through its Gatekeeper security system. This means the infected version of Transmission will no longer install, but it does not help those who have already been affected. Transmission is urgently recommending people upgrade to the latest version of its software, 2.91.

computer, macbooks, osxJordan WiresMarch 6, 2016wires computingcomputer repair, mac, malware, osx, ransomware, removal, virusComment

OSX 10.11 El Capitan

OS X El Capitan system requirements

If your Mac was able to run Mavericks or Yosemite it will be able to run El Capitan. Those supported Macs include:

iMac (Mid 2007 or newer)
MacBook Air (Late 2008 or newer)
MacBook (Late 2008 Aluminum, or Early 2009 or newer)
Mac mini (Early 2009 or newer)
MacBook Pro (Mid/Late 2007 or newer)
Mac Pro (Early 2008 or newer)
Xserve (Early 2009)

All of those Macs feature a 64-bit CPU. You’ll also need about 6GB of space to be available for the install (so make sure you have more room than that or you may encounter issues).

computerJordan WiresOctober 1, 2015wires computing10.11, aapple id, apple, computer, mac, macbook, osx, pro, renew, store, updateComment