Apple has released a security update to prevent the Mac Defender malware from attacking Mac-based computers. However, the patches are only for computers running on the latest OS.
The Security Update 2011-003 is expected to block Mac Defender malware and other variants such as Mac Security and MacProtector.
The update is available for Mac OS X 10.6.7 and Mac OS X Server 10.6.7, and patches Snow Leopard’s built-in file quarantine system. The security update will check for new malware definitions daily, the company said.
Apple said, "If Mac Defender malware is found, the system will quit this malware, delete any persistent files, and correct any modifications made to configuration or login files."
It added that after Mac Defender is identified and removed, a message will be displayed the next time an administrator account logs in.
Reports of Mac-specific scarewares have been floating in the tech world for weeks.
With growing popularity, Mac computers have become the target for malware programmers.
Last month, reports suggested that fake antivirus software, specifically targeting Apple computers, have been collecting credit card details from users by scaring them of non existent virus attacks.
Web security company Intego said that it had discovered fake antivirus softwares that have been targeting Apple users starting early May. This is the first time such tactics have been employed to attack Macs, says Intego.
Several victims have reported about the fake softwares on Apple’s forums, asking for help to remove it.
The design and content of the scareware Mac Defender makes it seem like a genuine anti-virus software. However, once people download and install it on their computers, the program starts popping porn sites. It then informs users that their computer is infected and asks for a payment with credit card to fix the errors.
These programs are spread through SEO (search engine optimisation) poisoning sites.
