Apple Fixes Mac Bug That Let Hackers Mine Crypto on Your Computer

A dangerous security hole in Apple's Mac computers was recently discovered and fixed. The flaw was in the screen sharing feature, which lets someone remotely see your screen and control your mouse and keyboard. Hackers could use this to break into your Mac without needing a password. Once inside, they installed software that secretly uses your computer's power to mine Monero, a digital currency. This can slow down your Mac and run up your electricity bill.

The bug was rated 7.1 out of 10 for severity, meaning it's serious. Apple released a patch last week for recent versions of macOS. The Dutch government warned that the flaw was being actively used to attack systems. One writer for Ars Technica had his always-on Mac Mini hacked this way. Luckily, his AI assistant noticed strange activity and helped him remove the malware. He used the same AI to find exactly when the hack happened and clean up the computer.

This story shows both the risks and benefits of AI tools. While Apple is cautious about giving AI agents full access to your computer, in this case, an AI agent helped catch and fix a security breach. However, not everyone has an AI assistant watching their back. The key takeaway is to keep your Mac updated. If you use screen sharing, make sure it's not exposed to the internet. Check for the latest security updates from Apple and install them as soon as possible.

If you're not sure whether your Mac is vulnerable, go to System Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates. Also, consider disabling screen sharing if you don't use it. This simple step can protect you from similar attacks. Remember, even a small vulnerability can lead to big problems, so staying informed and updated is your best defense.