Mac computers are generally thought of as being more secure than Windows computers, but they are not completely immune from cyber attacks. An infected Mac can result in stolen information, hijacked accounts, and even remote access without permission.
If you think your Mac has been infected, prompt action is the order of the day.
In this article, we will guide you through the recovery process and talk about necessary preventive steps to protect your Mac from future infections.
Indications That Your Mac Has Been Hacked
Prior to exploring recovery procedures, one needs to be aware of the signs of a hacked Mac. Below are some indicators to be aware of:
- Abnormal system activity: Your Mac takes longer to respond, freezes or crashes unexpectedly, or programs open and shut by themselves.
- Unauthorized account activity: There are unusual logins or transactions on your online accounts.
- Unknown apps or files: You see software you never installed or files you never saw before.
- Heavy network activity: Your Mac is consuming too much bandwidth, even if unused.
- Security alerts or pop-ups: Phony antivirus alarms, suspicious system messages, or browser redirection are signs of malware.
Experiencing Any of the Symptoms? Try These Recovery Tips
Step 1: Unplug from the Internet
The initial and most important action is to disconnect your Mac from the internet. Turn off Wi-Fi or remove the Ethernet cable so as not to allow hackers to keep remote control.
Go to the Wi-Fi icon on the menu bar and choose “Turn Wi-Fi Off.”
Unplug the Ethernet cable if connected via Ethernet.
It blocks more data leakage and halts harmful processes from transferring information to the hacker’s server.
Step 2: Reset Your Admin Password
If your Mac has been hacked by a hacker, they might have altered your admin password. Re-setting it can regain control on your part.
Here are steps to reset admin password on Mac:
- Restart Mac and press Command (⌘) + R until you see the Apple logo.
- Go to Utilities and select Terminal.
- Enter the reset password and press Enter.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to set a new admin password.
- Restart your Mac and sign in with the new credentials.
Step 3: Delete Suspicious Programs and Malware
Open Finder and navigate to the Applications folder. Search for unknown or suspicious programs. Drag them to the Trash, then empty the Trash.
Open System Preferences/System Settings > Users & Groups > Login Items and delete any unknown startup programs.
Scan for malware with a trusted security program like Malwarebytes or CleanMyMac.
Step 4: Update Your Passwords and Lock Accounts
If your Mac has been compromised, your passwords may have been stolen. Update them now:
- Reset your Apple ID password to avoid unauthorized access to iCloud.
- Update bank, email, and other sensitive account passwords.
- Utilize a password manager to create strong, new passwords.
- Activate two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security on key accounts.
Step 5: Scan for Unauthorized Remote Access
Hackers can use remote access software to take over your Mac. To turn it off:
- Go to System Settings > Sharing.
- Disable Remote Login, Remote Management, and Screen Sharing.
- Go to System Settings > Security & Privacy > Privacy tab and look for unknown apps under Accessibility.
If any remote access software is installed that is unknown, remove it right away.
Step 6: Restore Your Mac from a Backup
If the breach is severe, restoring your Mac to a clean state may be the best solution.
Use Time Machine to restore a backup from before the hack.
If no clean backup is available, consider erasing your Mac and reinstalling macOS.
To erase your Mac:
- Restart in macOS Recovery Mode (Command + R on startup).
- Open Disk Utility and erase the startup disk.
- Reinstall macOS from the recovery menu.
Step 7: Monitor Activity and Report the Incident
After taking these steps, continue monitoring your Mac for suspicious activity.
- Check your Apple ID login history at appleid.apple.com.
- Watch for unusual account activity.
- Report the hack to Apple Support and update your security settings.
How to Prevent Future Attacks
- Keep macOS and Apps Updated
Apple regularly releases security updates. Always install them promptly to patch vulnerabilities.
- Use Strong Passwords and 2FA
Weak passwords are easier to crack for hackers. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and turn on two-factor authentication for all accounts.
- Steer Clear of Suspicious Downloads
Download software only from the Mac App Store or official websites. Pirated software is usually filled with malware.
- Secure Your Network
Change your Wi-Fi router password from time to time. You can use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi but do not forget to turn off Bluetooth when it is not in use.
- Be Careful of Phishing Attacks
Hackers frequently utilize phishing emails to steal credentials. Be careful about emails asking for sensitive information, and do not click on unfamiliar links.
Final Thoughts
An infected Mac can be a nightmare, but immediate recovery measures can restore you to control. By adopting the prevention advice, you can substantially lower the chances of future incidents.
