Worm targets Mac OS X

Security experts have identified a Trojan horse that targets users of the Apple Mac OS X operating system.

Mac users can infect themselves by downloading and running a fake codec, which claims to help you view pornographic videos. Instead it changes DNS server entries to direct you to other websites.

McAfee Avert Labs said it has identified dozens of different fake codec sites currently serving the Mac malware.

However, Macintosh users have been urged to keep the "threat in proportion" because the OSX/RSPlug-A Trojan doesn't exploit a vulnerability in OS X, Leopard, Tiger, or any Apple code.

"This Trojan exploits the vulnerability within the person sitting in front of the keyboard. It's the Mac user who is giving permission for the code to run and allowing their computer to be infected," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos.

"This is not a red alert, but it is a wake-up call to Mac users that they can be vulnerable to the same kind of social engineering tricks as their Windows cousins," added Cluley. "Mac malware like RSPlug makes the headlines because it is so rare. Nevertheless it obviously makes sense for Mac users to ensure that they are protected."

www.avertlabs.com

www.sophos.com

www.webuser.co.uk/security

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