Got a Mac? Freaked out that it will fall prey to the massive malware epidemic taking the world by storm? If yes, keep reading. If not, consider indulging in a little (healthy) Apple anxiety.
Over half a million Mac computers have been infected by a trojan horse virus worldwide, the Russian antivirus company Dr. Web announced last week, with The Washington Post today saying it may be one of the biggest attacks on Macs to date.
The trojan can access computers without users' knowledge. It then proceeds to steal their personal information. But it doesn't have to steal yours. Just make sure you:
The virus — which has been seen before, and is therefore referred to as "Flashback" in this most recent incarnation — was first identified in September 2011, according to Mashable, when it wrapped itself in the guise of an Apple Flash Player installer.
It then changed forms, taking advantage of a loophole in Java programming, according to The Washington Post. Security researcher Mike Geise told the paper because Apple was slow to move on a critical update to the program, the botnet got "a full month of lead time."
Dr. Web's figures have yet to be independently confirmed, but 57 percent of cases are reported in the United States, according to CNET, with nearly 300 reported in Apple's home town of Cupertino, California.
Seems it really knows how to cut to the core.
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