DeepSeek Scams and macOS Malware Threat: A Rising Cybersecurity Concern

2025-01-31

In the tech world, new developments in cybersecurity are constant, but some moments stand out. The rise of DeepSeek, a chatbot from China, is one such case that has sparked widespread concern. As it quickly gained popularity, it also attracted cybercriminals exploiting its fame to distribute scams, phishing attempts, and malware—particularly targeting macOS users. The latest research sheds light on the growing risks associated with DeepSeek and how cyber attackers are leveraging this new trend to infiltrate personal data. Here’s a breakdown of the latest threats and what they mean for Apple users.

the Issue

DeepSeek, a recently launched chatbot from China, has surged in popularity and topped the App Store charts. However, with its sudden rise, numerous malicious actors have begun exploiting the buzz around it. These cybercriminals are distributing phishing links, fake investment opportunities, and even malware disguised as legitimate DeepSeek apps. One of the most concerning examples is the AMOS stealer malware, which targets macOS devices and is being sold as a subscription service to cybercriminals.

AMOS malware is a serious threat due to its ability to infect both Intel and Apple Silicon-based Macs, along with its use of Apple’s native Swift programming language. Once installed, the malware allows attackers to steal sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, and crypto wallet keys. To make matters worse, the malware’s installation process circumvents Apple’s security mechanisms by instructing users to run the malicious code through Terminal, which further exposes them to risk.

Apple’s latest macOS update, Sequoia, has attempted to block some of these exploits by enforcing stricter Gatekeeper controls, but cybercriminals have already found ways around these protections. Despite this, there are still key steps users can take to safeguard themselves, such as avoiding dubious apps and not engaging with DeepSeek altogether, given its questionable privacy policies.

What Undercode Says:

DeepSeek’s meteoric rise and the corresponding security risks reflect a worrying trend of how quickly new technologies can be co-opted for malicious purposes. Cybercriminals are always quick to capitalize on any new sensation, and DeepSeek, despite its innocuous appearance, has proven to be a prime target for exploitation. The use of AMOS malware exemplifies the adaptability of today’s cyber threats, utilizing Apple’s own programming language and making it capable of running across various device architectures.

A key concern is the sophisticated method by which these attacks are being carried out. The exploitation of Terminal is a particularly clever tactic, allowing attackers to bypass many of the security measures Apple has in place. By leveraging Terminal, the attackers are effectively turning the victim into an unwitting accomplice, executing malicious code directly on their machine. This kind of social engineering can be hard to prevent, especially if the user is not fully aware of the risks involved with seemingly harmless instructions.

The fact that AMOS is being sold as a service to other cybercriminals shows just how lucrative this form of malware has become. With a monthly subscription fee of $1,000, it’s clear that the market for targeted macOS malware is growing, and as Apple continues to gain market share, these types of attacks will likely only become more frequent and sophisticated.

Furthermore, DeepSeek’s origins in China, where strict laws and government oversight give authorities complete access to user data, raise significant privacy concerns. Any engagement with this app could lead to the loss of sensitive information and expose users to the risks of cyber-espionage. The app’s data collection policies, along with the potential for surveillance, make it an especially risky choice for users who value their privacy. Additionally, with investigations already underway in the US and Europe and the app being pulled from the App Store in Italy, it seems likely that more countries will follow suit in blocking or investigating the app further.

Given the current landscape of macOS security and the growing number of threats like DeepSeek, users should remain vigilant. It’s critical to avoid downloading unauthorized apps and refrain from engaging with any suspicious software, especially those that encourage Terminal use or direct interaction with system files. While Apple’s security updates, like the Sequoia release, are a step in the right direction, the continuous evolution of malware distribution techniques demonstrates that user education and awareness are just as important in the fight against cybercrime.

Ultimately, this situation serves as a reminder that privacy is fragile in the digital age, and any new technology—no matter how promising—can quickly become a vector for malicious activities if not handled carefully. As we move forward, both users and companies need to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their data from the ever-growing number of cyber threats.

References:

Reported By: https://9to5mac.com/2025/01/31/security-bite-top-macos-threat-found-riding-the-deepseek-wave/
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