Learn About Mac Malware with Intego

Intego has published a page about Mac malware discussing the different types of malware that affect Macs. The self-touted Mac security expert provides definitions for the different types of malware, and outlines that “While the general public – and some journalists – use the term ‘virus’ to talk about malware, this is incorrect.” Intego proposes that Mac owners take a few minutes to learn more about malware that affects Macs.

“With all the talk of viruses and Macs in the computer press recently, we thought it would be helpful for Intego, the Mac security specialist, to give a clear explanation of what types of viruses and malware are a danger for Mac OS X,” the company states. “A virus is a type of malware, but not the only one,” it explains, and proceeds to list the existent types of viruses and malware that affect Mac OS X.

It stars out with Mac viruses, saying “A virus is a small bit of executable code that spreads when users open infected files or applications. There are two viruses that affect Mac OS X: OSX.MachArena.A, a standard virus, and OSX/Oomp-A or Leap.A, which combines the techniques of Trojan horses, viruses and worms. While both of these are found in the wild, neither are widespread. The word ‘virus’ is used - usually incorrectly - by the general public, and even the press, when talking about malware.”

Skipping Windows and Linux viruses, as well as Macro viruses, Softpedia would like to point out to Intego’s definition of a Trojan horse, with the security firm outlining the dangers of having a Mac infected by one.

“A Trojan horse is a file or application that claims to perform some useful task but contains malicious code. Several Trojan horses affect Mac OS X; one recent example is the OSX/RSPlug Trojan horse which Intego discovered in 2007, and which has spawned new variants almost monthly since then,” Intego explains. “This malware, disguised as a video codec - software needed to view videos on a web site - changes the DNS server on a Mac to hijack its web traffic, and could, potentially, have other serious effects.” The company then weighs in on botnets, worms, exploits, and other types of malware.

Towards the bottom of the respective page, Intego explains why exactly Mac owners need to be on the lookout for malware, specifically stating that “Malware writers are targeting Macs more and more,” adding that “Many types of malware threaten Macs.” As usual, Intego then pushes its anti-malware solutions onto Mac users, mentioning its flagship application -  VirusBarrier X6, “which detects and eradicates all known malware.” Visit Intego here to get the full scoop on the company’s view of Mac malware.