- Some Docker Desktop users on Mac are unable to open their application
- Fake malware alert appears on startup
- Users can fix the issue with a patch, so download it now
Docker has confirmed that some versions of its Docker Desktop software are not starting or working properly due to a false malware warning.
Posting on 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 that users who see this message are unlikely to be affected by malware, with the cause of the problem already identified and a fix in progress.
Docker Desktop malware warning
“The reason for this warning is that some files in existing installations are not signed correctly,” the message adds.
Described as a “one-click install app 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 resolve the issue.
Version 4.37.2 is the latest version at the time of writing, which promises to fix the issue. Docker says users should upgrade through the app whenever possible, but a set of instructions is available for those who are unable to bypass the malware warning message.
A separate patch is available for versions 4.32 to 4.36. Versions 4.28 and earlier are not affected by the error.
Speaking about version 4.37.2, Dupuis said: “This version prevents installations from entering a crash state. Please update this version as soon as possible to avoid future issues.
A recently updated status page confirms that Docker Desktop is still experiencing a partial service outage.
“We know how essential Docker Desktop is to your workflow and we are committed to ensuring a smooth resolution,” added Director of Engineering Chris Crone.
“A temporary workaround that will restore functionality is available to all 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.
