Apple’s App Store Targeted by Chinese Hackers

Apple’s App Store Targeted by Chinese Hackers

LOS ANGELES — Apple’s longstanding reputation for flawless security is in jeopardy, following reports of dozens of malware-infected apps being distributed through its proprietary App Store.

It is a first for the distribution outlet that prides itself on its scrutiny and security of the products it carries — and an attack potentially impacting many millions of users.

The malware was payloaded onto some of the store’s most popular Chinese apps for iPad and iPhone users, including mobile chat app WeChat, which boasts a half-billion users; the Uber-inspired Didi Kuaidi; and a Spotify-style music app from NetEase.

It appears that rather than a direct attack on Apple, the malware authors took an innovative approach, by spreading a tainted version of Apple’s Xcode toolset, which then secretly installed the malware on any app it was used to create. The tainted Xcode file was labeled XcodeGhost by security researchers, and provides a stern example on the dangers of using pirated software — while exposing information about the app user’s device, passwords and more to the criminal attackers.

According to Palo Alto Networks security researcher Claud Xiao, the hack allows attackers to take control of iOS devices.

“We believe XcodeGhost is a very harmful and dangerous malware that has bypassed Apple’s code review and made unprecedented attacks on the iOS ecosystem,” Xiao stated.

For its part, Apple says the company is addressing the problem.

“To protect our customers, we’ve removed the apps from the App Store that we know have been created with this counterfeit software,” an Apple rep stated. “We are working with the developers to make sure they’re using the proper version of Xcode to rebuild their apps.”

So far, no sensitive customer data release has been reported.

“At present, we haven’t discovered any loss of user information or assets as a result of this, though the WeChat team will continue to monitor and do tests,” a WeChat parent Tencent rep revealed, noting that an updated version of the WeChat app is available from the app store.

Altogether, it is an embarrassing breach of Apple’s closed app distribution channel, which has long kept legitimate adult entertainment apps from its ecosystem due to corporate censorship of carnal content.

Related:  

Copyright © 2024 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Niki Media Acquires BritSexCash

Production studio Niki Media BV has acquired affiliate program BritSexCash.

FSC Warns of Nude Photography Site Falsely Claiming Affiliation With Organization

Free Speech Coalition (FSC) published a statement Friday warning of a nude art photography website fraudulently claiming to be associated with the industry trade organization.

MojoHost Reaffirms Commitment to Adult Industry Amid Project 2025 Implications

In the wake of Tuesday's election and amid concerns about the possible ramifications for the adult industry, MojoHost President Brad Mitchell has releases a statement addressing Project 2025 and the future of the industy.

Adult Web Hosting Service 'Midnight-Host' Launches

Midnight-Host, a new web hosting service designed specifically for adult websites, has launched.

ASN Lifestyle Magazine Joins Pineapple Support as Media Sponsor

ASN Lifestyle Magazine has joined the ranks of over 60 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support, partnering with the organization as a media sponsor.

Adult Industry Reacts to Trump Victory

On Tuesday, former President Donald Trump was reelected, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris to reclaim the office he lost four years ago.

Fetisfy Online Fetish Marketplace Launches

Fetisfy.com, an online marketplace for users to sell fetish items, has launched.

Pineapple Support Launches 'Spill the Tea, Colombia' Community Support Event Series

Pineapple Support has launched "Spill the Tea, Colombia," a monthly, in-person community support event for adult industry professionals.

Streamster Launches 'Tip2Peep' Camera-Switching Feature

Live-streaming software provider Streamster has launched Tip2Peep, a new feature that allows viewers to switch between multiple webcam viewing angles by tipping the creator.

Tyler Wu Guests on Chaturbate's 'Sex Tales' Podcast

Tyler Wu is the latest guest on Chaturbate’s “Sex Tales” podcast, hosted by Melissa Stratton and Vanniall on the company’s “Camming Life” YouTube channel.

Show More