Large number of Apple iOS devices in China have been affected by a new malware. Named WireLurker, it affects mobile devices through repackaged applications for Mac OS X.
The bug has affected hundreds of thousands of users who have downloaded software from a local OS X marketplace called Maiyadi App Store. The latter has been found to contain over 450 OS X apps affected by WireLurker, which have been downloaded over 350,000 times.
WireLurker targets Apple iOS devices when connected to the USB port of an affected OS X machine. The malware reportedly infects installed iOS apps similarly to a traditional virus. It is the first to install third-party apps to iOS devices that are not jailbroken.
Once installed on an iOS device, the malware is capable of stealing various information from it. The bug regularly requests updates from attackers and is under active development. Its ultimate goal is yet to be determined.
The researchers who discovered the malware recommend that users don’t install Mac software from third-party stores. Setting their Mac app restrictions to prevent installation of unknown third-party software is also essential.
Users should also avoid connecting their iOS devices with untrusted accessories or computers. Jailbreaking iOS devices should also be avoided.
Enterprise entities should route their mobile device traffic using a mobile security application.
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