Mac virus, spyware, malware, exploits, code injections, phishing— a can of worms…
You think you’re safe because you’re using a Mac? Think again. When you consider all possible types of computer security exploits and the fact that we spend most of our computing time online, you have to wonder at why is Apple so stealth about the issue?
But the Windows environment is so much more vulnerable. True, but it is also getting more attention from security software manufacturers and protection updates are superior in frequency and number. So are the threats you would say. But what about cross platform threats coming from iTunes, PDFs and SWFs and Windows installs made possible by bootcamp and Parallels?
And what about online threats emerging from email, web browsing and… social networks! Recently, we’ve seen links to social networks being actively distributed in spam messages. Eventually, social networks may, to a great extent, replace email in spreading malware. We hear from the very serious Kaspersky Lab experts. While social networks threats are still in their infancy remember that the browser executes lines of codes…
Kaspersky goes on to add:
Many Mac OS users have a false sense of security. They are convinced that there are simply no threats that target their operating system. At the same time, Apple Computers admits that malware for Macs does exist. In the latest update for OS X 10.6.4, Apple quietly added a new signature to its antivirus scanner to protect computers against Backdoor.OSX.Reshe.a
Source: SECUREVIEW
And here’s a discussion on MAC OS X security threats.
In Snow Leopard, Apple made a notable effort to protect the system against malware with the introduction of XProtect which it updates once in a while through Software Update. Apple’s approach on the issue is to not make a fuss about any threats to the system. While this behaviour might induce a false sense of security among Mac users, it is highly recommended to double up on protection and get additional software. According to critics, the Apple approach is far from effective. The finder is not protected when it loads a CD, DVD or a USB key… While there are currently only 2 major Mac trojans there are variations of them and at least 2 go undetected by XProtect according to Intego…
When you consider that cybercriminals want to get at your personal data i.e. banking credentials, you realise the most potent threats seem to be browser based! In any case consider MacScan, Norton and Virus Barrier for paying software and as always an Open Source alternative for Unix email scanning: CLAMAV. There is also an impressive free browser security scan from Qualys.
