Macs have been targeted by a major piece of malware called Mac Defender, which charges users money to clean up fake malware on their computers.
Macs have been targeted by malware called Mac Defender, which charges users money to clean up fake viruses. Photo credit: CNET UK
The intention of the fake antivirus software is to dupe Mac owners into handing over their credit card details. It is the first time these tactics have been employed to attack Macs, according to Intego, the web security firm that identified the malware. 'Scareware' attacks of this kind usually deliver suspect Windows programs.
Mac Defender looks like a well-designed, real piece of software, fooling users into installing it. Once it is on a user's Mac, it opens adult websites to trick them into believing they have a virus, and informs them of the presence of spyware where in fact there is none. The program then asks for payment to clear up the supposed infection.
For more on this ZDNet UK-selected story, see Mac Defender fake antivirus software is first major attack on Apple computers on CNET UK.
See more Apple stories on ZDNet UK.
