How to remove NovaStealer malware from your Mac

What kind of malware is NovaStealer?

NovaStealer is a stealer targeting Mac operating systems. As the classification implies, this malicious program seeks to steal sensitive information from infected devices. NovaStealer aims to obtain data related to cryptocurrency wallets in particular. However, its modular nature could allow other uses.

NovaStealer malware overview

NovaStealer's infections begin with a dropper, which initiates the infiltration chain. This malware uses persistence-ensuring techniques, such as making itself run automatically upon each system reboot. NovaStealer gathers relevant device data, including installed applications – in search of targeted cryptocurrency wallets.

At the time of research, this stealer sought to extract and exfiltrate data associated with the Exodus, Ledger, and Trezor digital wallets. To obtain the cryptowallets' log-in credentials (passphrases), the malware replaces the original app with an imitator. Hence, when victims enter their log-in credentials, the information is recorded by the fake application.

As mentioned in the introduction, NovaStealer is capable of updating itself through downloaded modules. Thus, its configuration can be easily altered – features removed or added. Updating tools and methodologies is a common practice in malware development. Therefore, in addition to the stealer's modularity, its functionalities may differ between infections and in potential future iterations.

To summarize, the presence of malicious software like NovaStealer on devices can result in severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

It is pertinent to mention that cryptocurrency transactions are virtually impossible to trace, resulting in irreparable financial loss for victims, who are unable to recover the stolen digital assets.

Stealer-type malware examples

We have written about numerous malicious programs; Shamos, mac.c stealer, and Odyssey are merely a couple of our articles on Mac-specific stealers. Data-targeting malware can seek only specific information or a broad range of data. Stealers are also commonly used in combination with other types of malicious software.

However, regardless of what (if any) information malware steals – its presence on a system threatens device and user safety. Therefore, all threats must be eliminated immediately upon detection.

How did NovaStealer infiltrate my computer?

The methods used to distribute NovaStealer are currently unknown. Generally, malware is spread by relying on phishing and social engineering techniques. Malicious programs are usually disguised as or bundled with regular software/media files, which come in various formats. Merely opening an infectious file can be enough to initiate malware infiltration.

Prevalent distribution techniques include: trojans (backdoors/loaders), drive-by (stealthy/deceptive) downloads, suspicious download sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.), pirated content, malicious attachments/links in spam mail (e.g., emails, DMs/PMs, etc.), malvertising, online scams, illegal software activation tools ("cracks"), and fake updates.

Furthermore, some malicious programs can self-spread through local networks and removable storage devices (e.g., external hard drives, USB flash drives, etc.).

How to avoid installation of malware?

Caution is paramount to device and user safety. Therefore, download only from official and trustworthy channels. Activate and update software using functions/tools provided by legitimate developers, as those obtained from third-parties can contain malware.

Additionally, be vigilant while browsing since the Internet is rife with deceptive and malicious content. Be cautious with incoming emails and other messages; do not open attachments or links found in dubious/irrelevant mail.

It is paramount to have a reputable antivirus installed and kept up-to-date. Security programs must be used to run regular system scans and to remove threats/issues. If your computer is already infected, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate infiltrated malware.

Instant automatic malware removal:

Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:

By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by RCS LT, the parent company of PCRisk.com.

Quick menu:

• What is "NovaStealer"?
• Remove PUA related files and folders from OSX.

Video showing how to remove adware and browser hijackers from a Mac computer:

Potentially unwanted applications removal:

Remove potentially unwanted applications from your "Applications" folder:

Click the Finder icon. In the Finder window, select "Applications". In the applications folder, look for "MPlayerX","NicePlayer", or other suspicious applications and drag them to the Trash. After removing the potentially unwanted application(s) that cause online ads, scan your Mac for any remaining unwanted components.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

My computer is infected with NovaStealer malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

Most likely, no – since malware removal rarely necessitates formatting.

What are the biggest issues that NovaStealer malware can cause?

The threats posed by an infection depend on the malware's capabilities and the cyber criminals' modus operandi. NovaStealer extracts and exfiltrates data from infected devices, primarily seeking to steal cryptowallets. Infections of this kind can lead to severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

What is the purpose of NovaStealer malware?

Profit is the primary drive behind most malware infections. However, attacks can also be motivated by process disruption (e.g., sites, services, companies, organizations, etc.), attackers' amusement or personal vendettas, hacktivism, and political/geopolitical reasons.

How did NovaStealer malware infiltrate my computer?

Prevalent malware proliferation methods include: drive-by downloads, trojans, spam emails/messages, malvertising, online scams, suspicious downloaded channels (e.g., unofficial and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.), illegal software activation ("cracking") tools, and fake updates. Some malicious programs can self-spread via local networks and removable storage devices.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can detect and eliminate most of the known malware infections. Keep in mind that running a complete system scan is essential since sophisticated malware typically hides deep within systems.