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How to protect your Mac from new MetaStealer malware

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How to protect your Mac from new MetaStealer malware

If you own an Intel-based Mac, watch out. There’s a malware strain that’s after your data. It’s called MetaStealer, and it slipped right past the radar of many Mac experts.

Gone are the days when Apple was almost invincible to viruses and malware. Now, with cyberthreats constantly changing and improving, nothing, whether it’s Mac, Windows or any other operating system, is truly safe anymore. MetaStealer is just the latest example of how hackers can exploit Macs.

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A new malware strain is targeting Mac computers. ( )

A deceptive strategy targets Mac computers

Imagine you’re sifting through your work emails. You spot one that looks like it’s from a client or business partner, possibly referencing a recent project or discussion. There’s an attached file labeled as a PDF, something you might typically expect in professional communication.

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This is where caution is paramount. That “PDF” might be more than meets the eye. In rare instances, it could be a hidden program designed to trick you, like MetaStealer, waiting to gain a foothold on your Mac and the valuable information it houses.

How a malicious PDF can unlock your Mac’s secrets

From there, it acts swiftly, siphoning a trove of sensitive data from the compromised Mac. This isn’t just about grabbing a couple of passwords. MetaStealer goes for the jugular. It can access system files, app data and even the contents of Apple’s revered Keychain password manager.

For those unfamiliar, Apple’s Keychain is not just any password manager; it’s integrated at the system level. This means it doesn’t only store website and app passwords.

Wi-Fi network passwords, encryption keys, credit card information and even those private notes you thought were safe – all are up for grabs.

The implications are chilling. Armed with this data, hackers can unleash a multitude of attacks on unsuspecting users, making the need for caution and protection even more crucial.

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MORE: BEWARE OF THIS MAC MALWARE MASQUERADING AS AN OFFICE PRODUCTIVITY APP

Photo of a woman sitting down with a laptop on her lap.

A malicious malware is being sent via email as a PDF that can steal your Mac’s data. ( )

WHY THAT CALL FROM THE SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT MIGHT JUST BE A PHONE SCAM

Building your Mac’s defense

With the looming threat of MetaStealer, it’s important to take proactive steps to safeguard your Mac:

Expect the unexpected

Always approach email attachments with caution, especially from unfamiliar sources. It might look like it’s from a colleague or a business partner, but sometimes it’s worth double-checking. A follow-up email can sometimes mean the difference between a secure system and a compromised one.

Attention to detail

Be wary of the subtle signs of phishing emails. Look out for misspelled words, unusual phrasing or inconsistencies in the message. They’re often telltale signs that the message might not be from who you think it is.

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MORE: ASK KURT: HOW IS IT POSSIBLE THAT YOUR FRIENDS ARE GETTING SPAM EMAIL FROM YOU?

Have strong antivirus protection on all your devices

The best way to protect yourself against malware getting onto your Mac is to have antivirus protection. Strong antivirus software actively running on your devices will alert you of any known malware in your system, warn you against clicking on any known malicious links in phishing emails, and ultimately help protect you from being hacked.

Get my picks for the best 2023 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices.

Use identity theft protection

If you did accidentally install malware onto your computer and you believe criminals may have your personal and financial information, identity theft protection companies can alert you by monitoring your private online info. They monitor personal information like your home title, Social Security Number (SSN), phone number and email address and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals.

One of the best parts of using some services is that they might include identity theft insurance of up to $1 million to cover losses and legal fees and a white-glove fraud resolution team where a U.S.-based case manager helps you recover any losses.

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See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.

10 WAYS TO USE YOUR OWN DATA TO PUT DOUGH IN YOUR POCKET

Have strong passwords and use 2-factor authentication

Using the same password across multiple platforms will inevitably make you more vulnerable because if one account gets hacked, they can all get hacked. And 2-factor authentication is just an extra shield that will prevent a hacker from getting into your accounts. Make sure to use a password manager to easily keep track of all your passwords.

HOW TO OUTSMART CRIMINAL HACKERS BY LOCKING THEM OUT OF YOUR DIGITAL ACCOUNTS

Woman holding up her laptop with one hand while typing with the other.

Using 2-factor authentication can help lower the risk of your data being stolen. ( )

MORE: 10 TELLTALE SIGNS THAT SOMEONE HAS STOLEN YOUR IDENTITY

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Kurt’s key takeaways

At present, MetaStealer is setting its sights on older Intel-based Macs. But as with many cyberthreats, adaptation is inevitable. There’s a sigh of relief for now as the malware doesn’t affect Apple’s newer M1 and M2 chips.

Resting on one’s laurels is not the answer. With the malware’s evident sophistication, there’s potential it could adapt to target Apple Silicon in the future. Staying informed, updated and vigilant will be essential.

Has your Mac ever been infected or have you encountered MetaStealer or any other malware? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

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Apple’s latest AirPods are already on sale for $99 before Prime Day

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Apple’s latest AirPods are already on sale for  before Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day kicks off tomorrow, July 8th, but you don’t have to wait until then to pick up Apple’s latest pair of AirPods at a discount. Right now, the AirPods 4 are available for around $99 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, while the AirPods 4 with noise cancellation are going for around $149 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. That’s within $10 of the lowest price we’ve seen on the ANC model and matches the lowest price to date on the base pair.

Both versions of Apple’s current-gen earbuds feature shorter stems and larger buds than previous models, allowing them to accommodate a broader range of ear shapes. The open-style earbuds use a hard plastic body that doesn’t create a tight seal inside your ear, which means they sacrifice some bass response compared to gummy-tipped earbuds. Hardshell earbuds won’t create pressure in your ear, though, which can feel uncomfortable after listening to music for a few hours.

Overall, the fourth-gen AirPods sound better than previous models due to a custom amplifier and new acoustic architecture. Audio quality is somewhat subjective and largely depends on how the music was recorded, mixed, and mastered; however, former Verge staffer Chris Welch noted in his review that he was pleased with the sound of Apple’s latest pair of wireless earbuds. If you’re upgrading from an older pair, you’ll notice a difference.

The AirPods 4 run on Apple’s H2 chip, which is required for Voice Isolation, a feature that reduces background noise and amplifies the volume of your voice during calls. If you’re using an iPhone, you can say “Hey Siri” to evoke Apple’s smart assistant to place calls, hear and return messages, and play music. You can also locate the earbuds using the Find My app on Apple devices if they’re misplaced.

The entry-level model can last up to five hours on a single charge and can be fully charged five times using the included USB-C charging case (the ANC model also offers wireless charging). Both pairs of earbuds are also IP54-rated for dust, sweat, and water resistance, ensuring you can wear them safely during workouts. Needless to say, the AirPods 4 are excellent earbuds at their current price, whether you opt for the model with active noise cancellation or not.

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How micro-robots may soon treat your sinus infections

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How micro-robots may soon treat your sinus infections

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

A breakthrough in medical technology could soon change how sinus infections are treated. Scientists have created micro-robots for sinus infection treatment that can enter the nasal cavity, eliminate bacteria directly at the source, and exit without harming surrounding tissue. This drug-free, targeted approach may reduce our dependence on antibiotics.

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A woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What are micro-robots for sinus infection treatment?

These microscopic robots are smaller than a speck of dust. They are made of magnetic particles enhanced with copper atoms. Doctors insert them through a narrow duct in the nostril. Once inside, the micro-robots are guided by magnetic fields to reach the infected area.

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At that point, a fiber optic light heats the particles and triggers a chemical reaction. This reaction breaks through thick mucus and destroys harmful bacteria at the infection site. As a result, treatment becomes faster, more precise, and far less invasive.

This latest advancement comes from a collaboration of researchers at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, along with universities in Guangxi, Shenzhen, Jiangsu, Yangzhou, and Macau. Their work, published in “Science Robotics,” has helped move micro-robotic medical technology closer to real-world applications. 

Why use micro-robots instead of antibiotics?

Traditional antibiotics circulate throughout the entire body. In contrast, micro-robots target only the infected area. This reduces side effects and lowers the risk of antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, patients may recover faster because the treatment goes straight to the source.

A woman with a sinus infection.

A woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Are micro-robots safe?

So far, animal trials have shown promising results. Micro-robots successfully cleared infections in pig sinuses and live rabbits, without causing tissue damage. However, scientists still need to ensure that every robot exits the body after treatment. Leftover particles could pose long-term risks.

In addition, public acceptance remains a challenge. The idea of tiny machines inside the body makes some people uncomfortable. Nevertheless, experts believe those fears will fade over time.

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What other uses are possible?

Researchers are already exploring how micro-robots could treat infections in the bladder, stomach, intestines, and bloodstream. Several teams around the world are working to make the technology more advanced and adaptable for deep internal use. If successful, these innovations could revolutionize the way we fight bacteria in the human body.

A doctor examining a woman with a sinus infection.

A doctor examining a woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The rise of micro-robots for sinus infection treatment marks a major shift in medical care. By offering precise, non-invasive therapy without antibiotics, this method could redefine how infections are treated. With continued research and testing, these tiny tools may soon become powerful allies in modern medicine.

Would you let microscopic robots crawl through your sinuses if it meant never needing antibiotics again? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM/NEWSLETTER.

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 will be even sadder and bloodier

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Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 will be even sadder and bloodier

The new season will be directed by Kai Ikarashi, who also directed episode six in the first season, “Girl on Fire.” There’s no word yet on when Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 will premiere, but they did show off this new poster artwork. A trailer will be shown later tonight during a panel at 8:30PM PT for the animation studio, Trigger.

Showrunner and writer Bartosz Sztybor said during Friday’s panel that for season one, “I just wanted to make the whole world sad… when people are sad, I’m a bit happy,” and that this new 10-episode season will be “…of course, sadder, but it will be also darker, more bloody, and more raw.”

A brief summary of the follow-up series tells fans what to expect following the end of David’s story in season one:

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 presents a new standalone 10-episode story from the world of Cyberpunk 2077— a raw chronicle of redemption and revenge. In a city that thrives in the spotlight of violence, one question remains: when the world is blinded by spectacle, what extremes do you have to go to make your story matter?

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