macOS.OSAMiner

macOS.OSAMiner is a form of malware that has been circulating since 2015, likely distributed in popular cracked games and software. It is designed to mine cryptocurrency by exploiting and damaging the user's computer or device. Recent versions of the malware have become more complex by embedding one run-only AppleScript inside another, making analysis more difficult. The use of run-only AppleScripts is rare in macOS malware, but it allows the malware to evade detection and anti-analysis measures. The macOS.OSAMiner campaign has likely been running for at least five years, and its longevity shows how powerful run-only AppleScripts can be for evasion. Despite being known for several years, the full extent of the campaign has only recently been revealed through investigations of samples from 2018 to 2020. Users should be aware of the risks associated with downloading cracked games and software, as this is a common method of distributing malware such as macOS.OSAMiner. It is important to keep software up-to-date and use reputable antivirus software to protect against such threats.