Leaked Apple schematics and extortion threats removed from dark web

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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