Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

heard 2 days ago first mac virus

PC friends tell me first mac virus discovered last week


True?

macbook, Mac OS X (10.7.1)

Posted on Feb 11, 2012 1:20 PM

Reply
85 replies

Feb 11, 2012 1:47 PM in response to babowa

I didn't believe him so googled. Found this:


The OSX/Leap-A worm spreads via the iChat instant messaging system, forwarding itself as a file called latestpics.tgz to contacts on the infected users' buddy list. When the latestpics.tgz archive file is opened on a computer it disguises its contents with a JPEG graphic icon in an attempt to fool people into thinking it is harmless.

User uploaded fileSome owners of Mac computers have held the belief that Mac OS X is incapable of harboring computer viruses, but Leap-A will leave them shellshocked.User uploaded file

comments?

Feb 11, 2012 1:54 PM in response to keith contarino

I'm not an expert, but from what I've read, a virus installs itself. Anything that requires the interaction of the user to install is usually:


a trojan must be installed with the prompt of entering the admin password - so, if you practice safe methods while online and don't download anything from sites you don't know, or don't open things if you don't know what they are, you can't get one. I, for one, would not open anything with a .tgz format - I have no idea what that is and that fact alone would propel me to throw it in the trash unopened.

Feb 11, 2012 2:46 PM in response to babowa

I went to the link and have been reading. The only thing that bothered me was the author said to be leery of peer to peer sites.

I download lots of tv shows from pirate bay. I almost exclusively use 2 persons that put stuff on pirate bay. I realize there is nothing on the pirate bay servers themselves. Is using this site a potential problem?


I've had no problems but my son had his pc infected and was very difficult to fix.


And yes, you're correct. The Mac malware seem to be trojans which would need me to download


Thank you again for your insight

heard 2 days ago first mac virus

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.