WSJ: In Rare Attack, Malware Targets Macswsj

[133724]

Apple on Thursday confirmed reports of pornography Web sites where hidden software, once downloaded, could take control of an Apple computer. Apple did not immediately respond to claims that it is the first instance of a Trojan horse attack on Apple's Macintosh platform.

"We've been made aware that a small number of Web sites attempt to trick Mac OS X users to install malicious software on their Macs," said Apple spokeswoman Lynn Fox. "Apple has a great track record for keeping Mac OS X users secure, and as always, we encourage people to install software only from trusted sources."

The timing of the Trojan horse suggests there are more to come, say some computer and Internet security professionals. As Apple's popularity rises, "the bad guys are taking Macs seriously now," wrote Bojan Zdrnja, of the Internet Storm Center, which is led by the Escal Institute of Advanced Technologies.


http://online.wsj.com/article/SB119401479695380513.html?mod=DCS

[Az]

1. Marketing 201

Before: Buy a Mac because it doesn't get viruses.

After: Buy a Mac because the hackers see them as a serious contender now.

[133724]

2. Before Buy a MAC

After Buy Linux...

[Swamp Rat]

5. "BUY LINUX???"

:rofl:

[silverojo]

7. There are Linux distros you have to buy

But most of them are free. :)

[Ezlivin]

3. Problem exists between chair and computer

It's not the fault of the Mac; it's the fault of the person who is operating the Mac.

You can have the most secure OS in the world, but if a user decides to let software install and run, all bets are off.

The WSJ has already corrected the article to note that it is not a virus.

Mac still don't get viruses.

[Az]

4. Wow Mac users are easy to goad

Laugh a little. Enjoy life. Don't worry about computer wars when there are real wars going on.

[Ezlivin]

8. I was laughing when I wrote it

There is a lot of sturm und drang concerning computer viruses. I've been running Macs since 1985, PCs off and on since the 90's and have never gotten a virus.

Mostly I laugh at the absurdity of thinking that any system as complex as a computer can ever be trouble-free. I've worked technical support for a living and know where the real problem lies.

Thanks for your concern over my psychic well-being. Perhaps we can keep each other entertained if we end up in the same detention camp after Bush declares martial law...

:hi:

[God23]

6. OMG... This is going to make some Apple Heads explode.

Hacking is not allowed there!

[IDemo]

9. Run a 'nix based OS with a 'Leopard' theme:

step 1: Download your choice of Linux distros. "Mint" is one enjoying a great deal of attention currently.

step 2: Download and install an OS X 10.5 theme.