For decades, Macs have been known for their high reputation in being unsusceptible to malware. However, as the company continues to advance its operating system, the changes have created portals. Many observers have found that the Macs are now susceptible to malwares.

The advancements in technology have made it possible for the users to be faced with the malware problem. However, it is important to understand that the problem is not as prominent as in the Windows machines. The attack can only take place with the help of the user. With a few tips in mind, Mac users can manage to keep the malware out and enjoy a reliable performance.

SEO Poisoning

Recently, a fake antispyware by the name, Mac Defender, has been messing the Mac users. This is through pop ups. Despite of the effort to keep the malware out, the battle has been found futile. This is after the introduction of various variants.

The malwares are spread through SEO poisoning. This is according to a Mac security firm by the name Intego. In this strategy, websites with malicious codes are given a high rank through search engine optimization. When a new user searches for something and opens the websites, he is sent to a fake screen where a fake malware scan is prompted. When the fake scan is complete, the user is informed that his computer is infected.

During this process, JavaScript on the page downloads a compressed ZIP file automatically. When using Safari, the downloaded ZIP file is unzipped and an installer window presented. When unaware, most people continue with the installation process by giving the administrative password. This is a well designed application that can mess the computer severely.

Variants of Mac Defender

When the installation is complete, the Fake Mac Defender claims the computer is infected and proceeds by opening pornographic sites. Users are promoted to purchase the Mac Defender antivirus in order to counter the problem.

Most people proceed by making the purchase. When the credit card number is given, the problem stops with no service given. What users fail to recognize is that they give away their card information.

The recommendation of Intego is to not install the Mac Defender application. All the checked zipped files should also be deleted and the website closed.

Worse Malware

In addition to the Mac Defender, there is a worse malware by the name Mac-Guard. This plants itself in the Applications folder and requires no administrator password. Mac has finally posted a tech note on how to avoid and remove Mac Defender.