Summary:
“The LockBit ransomware gang has created encryptors targeting Macs for the first time, likely becoming the first major ransomware operation to ever specifically target macOS. The new ransomware encryptors were discovered by cybersecurity researcher MalwareHunterTeam who found a ZIP archive on VirusTotal that contained what appears to be most of the available LockBit encryptors. Historically, the LockBit operation uses encryptors designed for attacks on Windows, Linux, and VMware ESXi servers. However, as shown below, this archive [VirusTotal] also contained previously unknown encryptors for macOS, ARM, FreeBSD, MIPS, and SPARC CPUs” (Bleeping Computer, 2023).

Analyst comments:
According to cybersecurity researcher Florian Roth, one of the encryptors was uploaded to VirusTotal in December 2022, suggesting that the samples have been floating around for quite some time. Although the archive contains lockers for older Macs, MalwareHunterTeam also uncovered encryptors designed to target newer Macs including those running on M1 chips. On a good note, macOS cybersecurity expert Patrick Wardle stated that the encryptors are only test builds, indicating that the samples are still under development and not ready to be developed in live cyberattacks.

Mitigation:
Backup your data, system images, and configurations, regularly test them, and keep the backups offline: Ensure that backups are regularly tested and that they are not connected to the business network, as many ransomware variants try to find and encrypt or delete accessible backups. Maintaining current backups offline is critical because if your network data is encrypted with ransomware, your organization can restore systems.

Update and patch systems promptly:
This includes maintaining the security of operating systems, applications, and firmware in a timely manner. Consider using a centralized patch management system; use a risk- based assessment strategy to drive your patch management program.

Test your incident response plan:
There's nothing that shows the gaps in plans more than testing them. Run through some core questions and use those to build an incident response plan: Are you able to sustain business operations without access to certain systems? For how long? Would you turn off your manufacturing operations if business systems such as billing were offline?

Check Your Security Team's Work:
Use a 3rd party pen tester to test the security of your systems and your ability to defend against a sophisticated attack. Many ransomware criminals are aggressive and sophisticated and will find the equivalent of unlocked doors.

Segment your networks:
There's been a recent shift in ransomware attacks – from stealing data to disrupting operations. It's critically important that your corporate business functions and manufacturing/production operations are separated and that you carefully filter and limit internet access to operational networks, identify links between these networks and develop workarounds or manual controls to ensure ICS networks can be isolated and continue operating if your corporate network is compromised. Regularly test contingency plans such as manual controls so that safety critical functions can be maintained during a cyber incident.

Train employees:
Email remains the most vulnerable attack vector for organizations. Users should be trained how to avoid and spot phishing emails. Multi Factor authentication can help prevent malicious access to sensitive services.

Source:
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/ne...mware-encryptors-found-targeting-mac-devices/