Flash Player Update (malware)

Malware masquerading as a "Flash Player Update" is designed to trick users into installing unwanted or viruses on their computers. Malicious websites take advantage of that fact that Adobe frequently updates its actual Flash Player software to prompt an unsuspecting user into downloading a fake update, which is actually a malicious DMG file in disguise, containing malware, spyware, and/or trojan horses. Such websites are often encountered by: links, or seeking pirated software or movies. Fake update pop-ups can also be triggered by adware from malicious sites, such as Adf.ly and Shorte.st links.

Protecting against Flash malware
Mac users should check their web browser preferences to deactivate any unwanted extensions. Some malicious sites may mistake an iPad as a Mac. However, malicious DMGs do not affect iPads as their software installation is restricted to Apple's App Store for security reasons. Security concerns drove Apple CEO Steve Jobs to denounce Flash in April 2010 and vow to never allow it on the company's iOS platform. Developers of third-party web browsers began to the Flash plugin by default due to the security issues. In July 2017, Adobe announced that it would phase out support for Flash by the end of 2020.