Mac: Detect and remove the Xagent virus - Here's how

A new but well-known trojan has appeared on the net: Xagent now also attacks Mac and steals passwords and files. In this practical tip, we will show you how to recognize the virus.

Xagent on Mac: How to detect and remove the virus

Xagent is malware that was programmed by the Russian hacker collective Sofacy Group, also known as Pawn Storm or Fancy Bear. The virus originally only affected Windows, Linux and Android. The first cases have now become known in which Macs have also been infected by the virus. The malware is difficult to spot, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• The virus enables hackers to steal passwords, take screenshots and read iPhone backups. The malware also installs applications on the Mac. So if you find applications on your Mac that you haven't installed yourself, you should become suspicious.
• The virus reaches the Mac through a vulnerability in the controversial anti-virus program MacKeeper. If you have installed the program on your Mac, it is possible that Xagent has infected your system. However, it cannot be ruled out that the virus might get into the system in other ways.
• The virus was discovered by employees of the anti-virus software manufacturer Bitdefender. According to the software company, the virus only becomes active if no virus scanner is running that could detect and remove it.

Xagent: How to protect your Mac

There is still no solution to remove and detect the virus. You can do the following to protect yourself:

• Uninstall MacKeeper: If you have MacKeeper installed on your Mac, completely remove the program. How to close the known vulnerability.
• Install only trusted programs: Only install programs that Apple has declared harmless. With other programs, you should think carefully and research whether the program is serious.
• Install antivirus: Install a reliable antivirus for your Mac. The software manufacturers are already working on closing the security gap.

On the next page we will show you whether a virus protection program on the Mac makes sense.