Apple OS X gets its first virus

The first virus to target Apple's OS X operating system has been identified in the wild.

Leap-A (also known as Oompa-A) spreads via the iChat instant messaging system, forwarding itself as a file called 'latestpics.tgz' to contacts on the infected user's buddy list.

When the file is opened on a computer it disguises itself with a JPEG graphics icon in an attempt to fool people into thinking it is harmless.

"Some owners of Mac computers have held the belief that Mac OS X is incapable of harbouring computer viruses, but Leap-A will leave them shell-shocked as it shows that the malware threat on Mac OS X is real," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos.

"Mac users should not think it's OK to lie back and not worry about viruses. "

http://www.vnunet.com/vnunet/news/2150477/apple-osx-gets-first-virus

Published Thu, Feb 16 2006 16:26 by donna

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Monday, February 20, 2006 11:21 AM by Donna's SecurityFlash

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