Docker Desktop Blocked on macOS Due to False Malware Alert

Docker has recently encountered an issue affecting macOS users, where Docker Desktop is being blocked due to false malware alerts. This problem surfaced on January 7, 2025, when users began receiving unexpected ‘Malware Blocked’ messages, preventing them from opening the Docker containers management app.

The alert reads: “Malware Blocked. ‘com.docker.vmnetd’ was not opened because it contains malware. This action did not harm your Mac.” Docker has clarified that these warnings are false and should be disregarded. However, manual action is required to resolve the operational problems, which are still ongoing.

Root Cause

The inaccurate malware messages are due to an incorrect code-signing signature used on some files in existing installations, likely causing a failure in file integrity checks.

How to Fix

Docker is actively investigating the incident and has provided several ways to resolve the malware warning problems:

1. Upgrade Docker Desktop: Update to version 4.37.2, which includes a permanent fix. The update can be downloaded manually or applied from the in-app updater tool.
2. Apply Patches: For older versions (4.32 through 4.36), apply the correct release patches. Docker versions 4.28 and earlier are not impacted by this problem.
3. Follow Resolution Steps: If malware warnings still pop up after updating or patching, follow the resolution steps provided in Docker’s guide.
4. IT administrators resolve the problem for all users and developers by running a script as long as Docker Desktop is upgraded to version 4.37.2 or patches are applied to older versions.
5. Manual Resolution: Administrators can manually solve the problem by stopping Docker, vmnetd, and the socket services, removing the vmnetd and socket binary, and installing new binaries with the appropriate signatures. Finally, restart the Docker Desktop app.

Docker has published a document here for complete details on the available solutions and their application.

Currently, Docker’s status page shows a partial service disruption on client machines due to this issue, and the team is evaluating the effectiveness of the released patches.

The Importance of Staying Updated in DevOps

This incident highlights the importance of staying updated with the latest versions and patches in the DevOps ecosystem. As technology evolves, so do the challenges and vulnerabilities. Keeping your tools and systems up-to-date ensures smoother operations and minimises the risk of encountering such issues.

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4. Rise of Platform Engineering: Organisations will invest in internal developer platforms to streamline workflows and improve developer productivity.
5. Low-Code/No-Code in DevOps: Low-code and no-code platforms will extend into DevOps, allowing non-developers to participate in automation and orchestration tasks.

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