Apple users beware: Do not search for this term on Google

Experts have warned Apple users to avoid searching for the term "Mac cleaner" on Google.

CYBERATTACKS SPREAD VIA SEARCH RESULTS

The reason for this warning is cyberattacks being directed through Google search results.

According to information reported by Euronews from Apple Insider, sponsored ads encountered when searching for "Mac cleaner" on Google redirect users to fake Apple support pages.

The instructions found on these pages can lead to the installation of malicious software on the device.

USERS DECEIVED BY FAKE APPLE PAGES

While the design of these sites resembles Apple's official website, they attempt to convince users with promises of cleaning up Mac storage space or freeing up space.

While users think they are organizing their storage space, they are prompted to run macros and scripts found on these platforms that mimic Apple's official pages.

The pages also contain non-functional links that evoke Apple's official site.

MALICIOUS COMMANDS EXECUTED VIA CLICKFIX-LIKE METHOD

Experts point out that the method bears similarities to previously seen "ClickFix" attacks.

At the core of these types of attacks is the manual entry of Terminal commands that users would not normally run.

Security experts emphasize that running commands in Terminal based on instructions found via Google is extremely risky.

These commands appear as if they are "cleaning macOS storage" or "installing a package," while secretly downloading a malicious script in the background and executing it with full user privileges.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

According to Forbes security writer Zak Doffman, users need to be especially careful when searching for these two words ("Mac cleaner") on Google.

In fact, not typing these terms into a search engine for storage cleanup might be a safer choice.

A significant portion of sites offering "cleaning" for Mac are either unnecessary or carry risks.

Instead, Mac owners can use the built-in tools of macOS to access storage settings through Apple's own menu and perform the necessary operations.

News Source: 12punto