A cyber security expert warned Apple users about a new malware scheme disguising itself as a fake software update.
Kurt Knutsson, an award-winning tech journalist, urged Apple users to be vigilant and shared advice on protecting sensitive data from this dangerous malware.
The scam, known as ‘infostealer’, dupes users into downloading harmful software under the guise of an internet browser update. If installed, hackers can access passwords, personal data, and other valuable information.
In recent years, the infostealer malware economy has grown exponentially with the latest evidence claiming that nearly 26 million users were targeted between the start of 2023 and the end of 2024, according to a Kaspersky report.
‘On average, every 14th infostealer infection results in stolen credit card information,’ the March 4 report reads. ‘Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence experts found that nearly 26 million devices running Windows were infected with various types of infostealers in the past two years.’
As researchers continue to track malware threats and exposure, they estimate a total of 16.49 million devices had been hit by infostealer malware in 2023, surpassing earlier predictions.
As of March 2025, researchers tracked more than 9 million infections from 2024, but the final count is expected to surpass the previous year’s numbers.
Now, Knutsson, nicknamed the ‘Cyber Guy’, said the biggest ‘problem’ with the AI-generated malware is that it is ‘so deceptive.’
‘That is the problem. It is just so deceptive and they are so tricky and people are falling for it. That is why this is a big, big problem as we wake up this morning,’ he said while speaking with Fox&Friends on Wednesday.
To best mitigate any unwanted information leaked online, Knutsson urged users to beware of fake software updates and phony pop-up messages.
‘You want to be aware of fake software updates, it could show up as a pop-up, or it could be a link in an email or a text,’ he said.
‘Don’t click it! Go automatically the way you usually get a software update. Go to settings, go to general, software update… follow that guide, don’t click on something that comes your way.’
The cyber security expert added that implementing a two-factor authentication – a security enhancement which requires users to provide two different forms of identification – is another protection users can apply to safeguard sensitive information.
‘Always pick two-factor authentication. That is when you have to put in your password and go through that annoying process of putting in a code that you got on your cell phone or email. It’s worth it,’ he advised.
Knutsson also said to use a password manager, a tool designed to help users securely store, generate and manage their passwords.
‘Use a password manager. Why? Those password managers create complicated passwords that hackers can’t understand because they can’t figure them out as easily,’ the expert recommended.
‘Be cautious with any downloads and links all the time. Bottom line,’ Knutsson warned. ‘You want to just really, really have protection on your device.’
The professional even offered a ‘pro tip’ telling users to ‘go with a family plan’ when signing up for antivirus services and protections, claiming, in most cases, that user’s will save money with this route.
‘It’s easy to get fooled,’ he said before adding: ‘Even the most cautious individuals can fall victim to a well-executed campaign. The best way to stay safe is to exercise caution when browsing online, downloading apps or making online transactions.
