Fake malware alerts cause Docker Desktop to be blocked on Apple Macs
- Some Docker Desktop users on Mac are unable to open their application
- A fake malware warning is displayed at startup
- Users can fix the problem with a patch, so download now
Docker has confirmed that some versions of the Docker Desktop software are not starting or running properly due to a fake malware alert.
Post to GitHubSenior Principal Engineer Christian Dupuis shared a screenshot of the pop-up, which reads: “com.docker.vmnetd was not opened because it contains malware.”
Dupuis confirmed that users seeing this message are unlikely to be affected by malware as the cause of the problem has already been identified and a fix is being worked on.
Docker Desktop malware alert
“The reason for this warning is that some files in existing installations are signed incorrectly,” the message said.
Described as a “one-click installation application for your Mac, Linux, or Windows environment that lets you build, share, and run containerized applications and microservices,” Docker Desktop will need to be updated to fix the problem.
Version 4.37.2 is the latest release at the time of writing and promises to fix the issue. Docker says users should upgrade through the app whenever possible, but some instructions are available for those who cannot bypass the malware warning message.
A separate patch is available for versions 4.32 – 4.36. Versions 4.28 and earlier are not affected by the bug.
Speaking about version 4.37.2, Dupuis said: “This version prevents installations from entering the error state. Please update to this version as soon as possible to avoid future issues.”
A status page recently updated confirms that Docker Desktop is still experiencing a partial service outage.
“We know how critical Docker Desktop is to your workflow and are committed to ensuring a smooth solution,” said Technical Director Chris Crone added.
“A workaround is available that will restore functionality for all affected users… Our team is prioritizing this issue and working hard on a permanent fix. If you prefer to wait for the longer-term patch update, you can best not to start (over) Docker desktop.”