September 1, 2024 at 09:08AM
The popular open-source project Docker-OSX, allowing virtualization of macOS on non-Apple hardware, has been removed from Docker Hub due to a DMCA takedown request from Apple, citing copyright violation. Although still available on GitHub without installer binaries, the case highlights legal challenges for open-source projects dealing with proprietary software and intellectual property rights.
Key takeaways from the meeting notes:
The popular Docker-OSX project, an open-source project allowing virtualization of macOS on non-Apple hardware, was removed from Docker Hub following a DMCA takedown request from Apple, alleging copyright infringement.
The project, with 750,000 downloads and 500 stars on Docker Hub and 40,000 stars on GitHub, is valuable for developers testing software on macOS and security researchers investigating bugs and malware.
Apple’s DMCA request targeted the Docker-OSX repository, claiming it contained macOS installer images infringing on Apple’s copyright and violating the DMCA.
The legal perspective acknowledges Apple’s rights to enforce its EULA for macOS, restricting its use to Apple-branded hardware, impacting security researchers using Docker-OSX for bug bounty activities.
Sick.Codes expressed frustration over Apple’s actions, highlighting the contradiction in targeting projects essential for security research while encouraging bug reports and contributions.
Docker-OSX remains available on GitHub without the installer binaries, but the case raises challenges for open-source projects dealing with proprietary software and intellectual property rights enforcement.
BleepingComputer has sought comments from Apple and Docker but has not received a response.