Atomic macOS Stealer

What is Atomic Stealer?

MacStealer malware, also known as Atomic macOS Stealer or AMOS, is a malicious program built specifically to target macOS systems. It steals sensitive data such as keychain passwords, browser cookies, saved credentials, crypto wallet files, and personal documents. Distributed through fake app installers and malicious ads, Atomic Stealer can compromise both personal and financial information in minutes.

How does Atomic Stealer work?

Atomic Stealer runs like a short, ruthless script: a fake DMG or cracked installer tricks you into running a payload, then AppleScript (osascript) automates hidden commands and fake prompts to grab elevated privileges. From our analysis, the stealer uses those privileges to copy keychain files, harvest browser cookies and extensions, and pull wallet data into a temporary exfil folder.

At its core, Atomic enables hackers stealing personal data by packaging harvested items into a zip file and sending them to a remote C2 server. We’ve seen FileGrabber scripts scrape Desktop and Documents for common credential files, dscl and fake dialogs capture admin passwords, and optional backdoor components replace or persist as helpers to enable later remote control.

A note from our experts: 

 

MacKeeper offers real-time antivirus protection to detect and block malware like Atomic Stealer before it can access or steal your personal data. Our Antivirus helps ensure that every document, app, and system folder stays safe, scanning for hidden threats before they can cause damage.

 

Here’s how to keep your files secure with MacKeeper’s Antivirus:

1. Download, install, and open MacKeeper on your Mac or MacBook.
2. In the left sidebar, select Antivirus under the Security section.
3. Click Start Scan to run a full system scan for malware or potentially unwanted files.
4. Review all detected threats in the scan results window.
5. Select any suspicious items and quarantine them to block further activity.
6. Restart your Mac, then permanently delete the quarantined files.

How to detect Atomic Stealer on Mac?

Our security specialists have noticed that Atomic Stealer infections often masquerade as legitimate apps or software updates. Detecting such malware involves paying attention to subtle warning signs. For instance, sudden slowdowns, unexpected password prompts, or unknown background processes running without explanation. When such behavior appears, it’s best to act quickly.

To detect Atomic Stealer on Mac:

1. Open Activity Monitor from Applications > Utilities, then check for unrecognized processes that are consuming high CPU or memory.
2. Review your Downloads and Applications folders for suspicious or recently installed .dmg or .pkg files.
3. Open System Settings > Login Items & Extensions, then delete any unfamiliar or unauthorized startup entries.
4. Run a full scan using MacKeeper’s Antivirus—it identifies and isolates files associated with Atomic Stealer or related threats.
5. Restart your Mac once the scan is complete to remove residual malware components and restore normal performance.

How to protect yourself against Atomic Stealer?

Many users still ask—can Macs get viruses? The answer is yes, and Atomic Stealer is one clear example. Even Apple devices need active protection, especially when dealing with unknown downloads or fake updates. Keeping your system safe starts with consistent maintenance and trusted security tools.

To protect yourself against Atomic Stealer:

• Avoid downloading apps or updates from unfamiliar websites or pop-up ads. Stick to verified sources like the Mac App Store or the developer’s official site.
• Keep macOS and all installed applications regularly updated to patch security vulnerabilities.
• Disable automatic installation permissions for unverified software in System Settings > Privacy & Security.
• Enable MacKeeper’s Antivirus to block malware in real time and prevent suspicious files from executing.
• Schedule regular scans to ensure your Mac remains fully protected and malware-free.

Signs your Mac is infected with Atomic Stealer

Our research team has seen that Atomic Stealer infections rarely announce themselves openly. Instead, they hide behind normal processes and use social engineering to trick users. Recognizing early warning signs can help you act fast before your data is compromised.

Watch for these signs that your Mac might be infected:

• Your MacBook suddenly slows down, or the fan runs loudly for no clear reason.
• You notice random password prompts from unknown apps or fake system dialogs.
• Saved browser logins, cookies, or wallet data disappear unexpectedly.
• The Activity Monitor shows unusual background processes consuming CPU or memory.
• You receive security alerts or find unauthorized login attempts linked to your Apple ID or crypto accounts.

If you spot even one of these issues, stop downloading new files and scan your device with MacKeeper’s Antivirus immediately.

How to remove Atomic Stealer from Mac

When Atomic Stealer infects your system, immediate cleanup is vital to prevent further data loss or identity theft. Simply deleting files manually won’t help, since the malware hides its components in multiple system folders.

To remove Atomic Stealer from your Mac:

1. Open Finder and go to Applications to locate suspicious or newly installed apps.
2. Move any unrecognized files or installers to Trash, then empty it immediately.
3. Open System Settings > Privacy & Security and review permissions for unknown apps.
4. From Finder, go to Library > LaunchAgents and delete unfamiliar items.
5. Restart your Mac to clear cached components and reset background processes.

Conclusion

Atomic macOS Stealer is a dangerous malware that steals passwords, crypto data, and personal files from unsuspecting users. It often hides inside fake app installers and can severely impact system stability and privacy. Knowing how to detect, remove, and prevent it helps protect your data and keep macOS running smoothly.

MacKeeper, trusted by millions of users, provides real-time Antivirus protection that detects and blocks threats like Atomic Stealer before they infect your system. With automatic scans, adware and malware removal, and continuous monitoring, MacKeeper ensures your Mac remains secure, private, and performing at its best every day.