14 DAY TRIAL // Security researchers warn that scareware pushers have begun targeting Mac users and two fake antivirus applications designed for Apple's operating system have already been spotted in the wild.
According to malware analysts from antivirus vendor Kaspersky Lab, the two rogue programs, called "Best Mac Antivirus" and "MACDefender" are being distributed via black hat SEO.
This type of distribution campaign relies on poisoning search results for popular keywords with links that lead to websites that mimic antivirus scans and serve rogue software.
It's obvious that people behind this particular attack are still beginners that need to refine their methods because the scareware website where Mac users get sent mimics a Windows XP Explorer window.
However, the program offered for download is in .mpkg format and if installed, it displays a professionally-looking interface instructing users that their personal information is at risk because of malware infections.
Attempts to clean up the system using the program results in requests to buy a license for $80, which is typical scareware behavior.
The expansion of fake antivirus programs into the Mac OS X world is of significant importance and follows a recent trend of malware porting to alternative operating systems.
There are multiple benefits in targeting Mac users for the scareware pushers. For one, they're tapping into an unexploited market which gives them an edge over the competition.
Second, Mac users are easier prey because they are not familiar with this sort of social engineering attacks and many of them still believe that Mac OS is malware-free.
Another benefit is that Mac users are more likely to pay than Windows ones because they are used with pricey software and a pay-for-everything model.
This is further accentuated by the fact that Mac owners are statistically wealthier than PC users according to recent studies that analyzed their income.
Security researchers warn that such threats will only increase in number and urge Mac users to be prepared and to educate themselves about propagation methods.