- Some Docker Desktop users on Mac cannot open their application
- Fake malware alert displayed on startup
- Users can fix the problem with a patch, so download it now
Docker has confirmed that some versions of its Docker Desktop software are not starting or working correctly as a result of a false malware warning.
Posting on GitHub, Senior Principal Engineer Christian Dupuis shared a screenshot of the pop-up that reads: “com.docker.vmnetd did not open 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 solution is being worked on.
Malware warning for Docker Desktop
“The reason for this warning is that some files on existing installations are signed incorrectly,” the post adds.
Described as a “one-click installation app for your Mac, Linux, or Windows environment that allows you to build, share, and run containerized applications and microservices,” Docker Desktop will need an update to fix the issue.
Version 4.37.2 is the latest version at the time of writing and promises to fix the issue. Docker says users should update through the app whenever possible, but there is a set of instructions available for those who can’t avoid 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 a failed state. Please update to this version as soon as possible to avoid future problems.”
A recently updated status page confirms that Docker Desktop is still experiencing a partial service outage.
“We know how critical Docker Desktop is to your workflow and we’re committed to ensuring a smooth resolution,” added engineering director Chris Crone.
“There is a temporary fix that will restore available functionality to 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) start Docker Desktop”.
