Mac users are no longer safe by default—Odyssey, a sophisticated variant of the AMOS (Atomic) stealer, has emerged as a serious threat to macOS systems. This information stealer has been designed with precision, targeting sensitive files, browser data, and even cryptocurrency wallets, making it a powerful tool in the hands of cybercriminals.
Once installed, Odyssey stealthily operates in the background, collecting valuable data without raising suspicion. Victims may not notice anything wrong until their credentials have been used to access their bank accounts, hijack their social media, or drain their crypto funds. The growing popularity of macOS has made it a more frequent target, and Odyssey is a prime example of that trend.
Odyssey Threat Summary
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Threat Name | Odyssey Information Stealer |
Threat Type | Stealer Malware |
Associated Emails | Not applicable |
Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:AMOS-BV [Trj]), G-Data (Generic.Trojan.Agent.52PDAF), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-PSW.OSX.Amos.gen), Symantec (OSX.Trojan.Gen), More on VirusTotal |
Symptoms | Often no visible symptoms; operates silently in the background |
Damage | Theft of credentials, banking data, crypto assets; identity theft; financial loss |
Distribution Methods | Fake Chrome installers, deceptive websites, malicious ads |
Danger Level | High – Targets multiple data points and operates covertly |
Odyssey Malware: How It Works
Odyssey initiates its malicious routine by collecting a wealth of system information—device model, UUID, CPU, RAM, and macOS version. It then requests access to the user’s Desktop and Documents, scanning them for valuable files and data. More dangerously, it attempts to tap into Keychain, macOS’s built-in password manager, which can give attackers access to:
- Wi-Fi credentials
- Website login information
- Credit card details
- FTP passwords
It also scans widely-used web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Opera, Vivaldi, and Yandex, extracting login credentials, browsing history, and autofill entries. On top of this, Odyssey targets cryptocurrency wallets and browser extensions, putting digital assets at significant risk.
Once collected, all this information can be exfiltrated to command-and-control servers, where it can be used for identity theft, fraud, and resale on the dark web.
Why Odyssey Is Dangerous
Unlike traditional malware that may display pop-ups or slow your system down, Odyssey is engineered to remain undetected. It runs quietly and efficiently, doing maximum damage with minimal signs. By the time a user suspects an issue, their personal and financial data may already be compromised.
The malware’s ability to interact with multiple browsers and steal credentials from password managers and crypto extensions makes it especially lethal in the modern digital landscape. As more people rely on their devices for banking, trading, and communication, the risks multiply.
Manual Removal of Info-Stealers on macOS
(Recommended for advanced users)
Step 1: Quit Malicious Processes
- Open Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities).
- Look for unfamiliar processes using a lot of CPU or RAM.
- Select the suspicious process and click the “X” (Force Quit) in the toolbar.
Common process names include agentUpdater
, com.apple.system
, StealC
, VidarAgent
, or randomly generated ones.
Step 2: Remove Suspicious Login Items
- Open System Settings (Ventura or newer) or System Preferences (Monterey and older).
- Go to:
- Ventura and later:
Users & Groups > Login Items
- Monterey and earlier:
Users & Groups → Login Items
- Ventura and later:
- Remove any unrecognized or unwanted entries using the minus (–) button.
Step 3: Delete Malicious Applications
- Go to Finder > Applications.
- Sort by Date Added to spot recently installed suspicious apps.
- Drag questionable apps to the Trash, then Empty Trash.
Step 4: Remove Malware-Related Files and Launch Items
- In Finder, click Go > Go to Folder.
- Check and clean the following directories:
javascriptCopyEdit~/Library/LaunchAgents/
~/Library/Application Support/
~/Library/Preferences/
~/Library/LaunchDaemons/
Also check these system-level paths:
swiftCopyEdit/Library/LaunchAgents/
/Library/LaunchDaemons/
/Library/Application Support/
- Look for files with strange names or those referencing fake apps or random strings (e.g.,
com.update.agent.plist
,vidarupdater
,stealerwatcher.plist
) and delete them.
Step 5: Remove Rogue Browser Extensions
Safari
- Open Safari > Preferences > Extensions
- Uninstall suspicious extensions
Chrome
- Go to Chrome > Settings > Extensions
- Remove anything unfamiliar
Firefox
- Open Firefox > Add-ons > Extensions
- Remove suspicious entries
Step 6: Reset Browsers to Default
Safari:
- Safari > Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Remove All
Chrome:
- Chrome > Settings > Reset and clean up > Restore settings to their original defaults
Firefox:
- Help > More Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox
Step 7: Clear Keychain and Update Passwords
- Open Keychain Access (Applications > Utilities).
- Search for stored login credentials related to compromised accounts.
- Remove suspicious entries.
- Change passwords for all major services (Apple ID, email, banking, cloud storage, etc.).
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where available.
Automatic Removal Using SpyHunter for Mac (RECOMMENDED)
(Recommended for all users seeking fast, secure removal)
SpyHunter for Mac is a professional anti-malware solution designed to detect and eliminate Mac-specific threats, including info-stealers, adware, browser hijackers, and trojans.
Step 1: Download SpyHunter for Mac
Click the link below to download the latest version of SpyHunter (Download SpyHunter for Mac)
Need installation help? Follow this guide: SpyHunter Download Instructions
Step 2: Install and Launch SpyHunter
- Open the downloaded SpyHunter-Mac.dmg file.
- Drag SpyHunter to your Applications folder.
- Open SpyHunter and grant necessary permissions when prompted.
Step 3: Scan Your Mac
- Launch SpyHunter.
- Click Start Scan.
- Let it complete the system scan to detect all malware traces.
- Click Fix Threats to remove detected infections.
Step 4: Activate Real-Time Protection
- Open SpyHunter’s Settings and turn on real-time malware monitoring to block future threats.
Prevention Tips to Stay Safe on macOS
- Avoid downloading cracked software or torrents
- Only install apps from the Mac App Store or official vendor websites
- Keep macOS and all apps updated regularly
- Be cautious with email attachments and fake software updates
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable 2FA
- Consider a comprehensive anti-malware tool like SpyHunter for Mac
Conclusion
Odyssey represents a dangerous evolution in macOS-targeted malware. Its stealthy nature, wide-ranging data theft capabilities, and focus on financial and identity-related data make it a high-priority threat. If you suspect your device may be compromised or you have recently downloaded software from a non-official source, consider scanning your system immediately.
Protecting your macOS device requires vigilance—steer clear of suspicious installers, be cautious when browsing, and never grant unnecessary permissions to unknown applications. Odyssey is not just another stealer; it’s a sophisticated tool in the arsenal of cybercriminals.