Amber Neely
The ransomware group attempting to extort $50 million from Apple has pulled down previously leaked schematics and removed all references to the previous demands.
On April 20, ransomware REvil posted on the dark web that it had obtained stolen Quanta documents revealing details of upcoming Apple Watch, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro models. The group threatened to leak the documents if Apple did not pay a $50 million ransom.
The group had initially attempted to get money from Apple supplier Quanta, though the effort fell flat.
In total, 21 images were leaked, showing various features of an alleged upcoming MacBook Pro, including an SD card slot, HDMI slot, and a MagSafe charger.
The images have been mysteriously removed from their spot on the dark web, as pointed out by MacRumors. The group does not explain why it removed the images, and all references to the extortion attempt have been erased.
Apple has not commented on the breach at this time but has historically chosen not to interact with hackers. In 2017, a hacker group attempted to extort Apple by holding customer data ransom. Apple told the group, "we do not reward cyber criminals for breaking the law."
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18 Comments
Tim must have released the AST (Apple Shock Troopers).
Did AI staff delete the copies of the documents that they grabbed while they were available? Might be legally prudent.
The hopeful part of me wants to think Apple called in a “favour” from some “friends” and they made the group an offer they couldn’t refuse.
The realist part of me knows Apple or Quants likely paid the ransom, thereby funding the group to victimize others.
SD Card slot? Floppy disk too?
In my head, I’m picturing SWAT teams raiding the homes of the miscreants, to the surprise of their parents.
I hope Apple didn’t pay the ransom. That will only encourage more people to try.