Researchers have uncovered advanced, never-before-seen macOS malware that was installed using exploits that were almost impossible for most users to detect or stop once the users landed on a malicious website.

The malware was a full-featured backdoor that was written from scratch, an indication that the developers behind it have significant resources and expertise. DazzleSpy, as researchers from security firm Eset have named it, provides an array of advanced capabilities that give the attackers the ability to fully monitor and control infected Macs. Features include:

• victim device fingerprinting
• screen capture
• file download/upload
• execute terminal commands
• audio recording
• keylogging

Deep pockets, top-notch talent

Mac malware has become more common over the years, but the universe of advanced macOS backdoors remains considerably smaller than that of advanced backdoors for Windows. The sophistication of DazzleSpy—as well as the exploit chain used to install it—is impressive. It also doesn’t appear to have any corresponding counterpart for Windows. This has led Eset to say that the people who developed DazzleSpy are unusual.