False malware alert is leading Docker Desktop to be blocked on Apple Macs

Docker Hub Office
(Image credit: Shutterstock)

  • Some Docker Desktop users on Mac are unable to open their application
  • A false malware alert is being shown on startup
  • Users can fix the issue with a patch, so download now

Docker has confirmed some versions of its Docker Desktop software are failing to start or work properly as a result of a false malware warning.

Posting to GitHub, Senior 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 users seeing this message are unlikely to be affected by malware, with the cause of the problem already identified and a fix in the works.

Docker Desktop malware warning

“The reason for this warning is that some files in existing installations are incorrectly signed," the post added.

Described as a “one-click-install application for your Mac, Linux, or Windows environment that lets you build, share, and run containerized applications and microservices,” Docker Desktop will need updating to fix the problem.

Version 4.37.2 is the latest release at the time of writing, which promises to address the issue. Docker says users should upgrade through the app where possible, but a set of instructions are available for those unable to bypass the malware warning message.

A separate patch is available for versions 4.32 - 4.36. Versions 4.28 and earlier are unaffected by the error.

Speaking about version 4.37.2, Dupuis said: “This version prevents installations from entering into the failure state. Please update to this version as soon as possible to prevent future issues.”

A status page updated recently confirms Docker Desktop is still experiencing partial service disruption.

“We know how critical Docker Desktop is to your workflow and are committed to ensuring a smooth resolution," Director of Engineering Chris Crone added.

"A temporary workaround that will restore functionality is available for any affected users… Our team is prioritizing this issue and working diligently on a permanent fix. If you prefer to wait for the longer-term patch update, please refrain from (re)-starting Docker Desktop.”

You might also like

TOPICS
Craig Hale

With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.

Read more
Image of laptop infected with malware threat
This devious new macOS malware disguises itself as Chrome, Zoom installers
A person at a laptop with a cybersecure lock symbol floating above it.
Parallels Desktop has some worrying security flaws for Mac users
Ransomware
Microsoft spies a new and worrying macOS malware strain
malware
Valve advises full system reset if you've downloaded this Steam game containing malware
Pirate skull cyber attack digital technology flag cyber on on computer CPU in background. Darknet and cybercrime banner cyberattack and espionage concept illustration.
Mac users targeted with new malware, so be on your guard
A computer being guarded by cybersecurity.
Worrying Windows security issue patched by 7-Zip, so patch now
Latest in Pro
Eurocom Raptor X18
At $15,000, this massive 256GB RAM laptop makes Apple's MacBook Pro look affordable, tiny and very, very slow
Squarespace
Build a website for less with 10% off Squarespace subscriptions
An American flag flying outside the US Capitol building against a blue sky
The FCC is creating a security council to bolster US defenses against cyberattacks
UK Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer
UK PM says AI should soon replace civil servants
Image depicting hands typing on a keyboard, with phishing hooks holding files, passwords and credit cards.
Microsoft warns about a new phishing campaign impersonating Booking.com
Ransomware
Microsoft uncovers sleuthy new XCSSET MacOS malware campaign
Latest in News
Google Gemini Flash 2.0 Images
I tried Gemini's new AI image generation tool - here are 5 ways to get the best art from Google's Flash 2.0
An image of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra from a hands-on event
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra could resurrect an intriguing camera feature
Eurocom Raptor X18
At $15,000, this massive 256GB RAM laptop makes Apple's MacBook Pro look affordable, tiny and very, very slow
Cristin Milioti in Black Mirror season 7
Netflix launches trailer for Black Mirror season 7, giving us a look at its first-ever sequel episode and an unexpected returning character
A graphic of the PC Gaming Show
Get ready for a bounty of PC games on June 8, as the PC Gaming show is back
A close up of The Daily podcast from Pocket Casts' web page
‘Podcasting shouldn’t be locked behind walled gardens’: Pocket Casts slams Spotify and makes its web player free to all