Virus protection on the Apple Mac? Get the facts

IT security and control firm Sophos has urged Apple Mac users not to panic in light of Apple's recent advice to install anti-virus software, but instead to take calm, clear action to properly defend their Mac computers from internet attack.

During 2008, Sophos has identified a series of real-world threats that aim to steal from unsuspecting Mac users. The most recent, a financially-motivated Trojan horse called Jahlav, targets Mac users who visit infected websites hoping to see adult content by posing as a video plug-in. However, the threats are still small in number compared to Microsoft Windows.

"Although there are fewer threats on the Mac platform at present, Mac users should still be thinking sensibly about security," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos. "Mac users should follow safe computing best practices like running an anti-virus product and keeping up-to-date with security patches."

A summary of the facts about Apple Mac malware and the reasons why Apple users may be in danger of infection can be found at:

ends

About Sophos

Sophos enables enterprises worldwide to secure and control their IT infrastructure. Our network access control, endpoint, web and email solutions simplify security to provide integrated defenses against malware, spyware, intrusions, unwanted applications, spam, policy abuse, data leakage and compliance drift.

With over 20 years of experience, we protect over 100 million users in nearly 150 countries with our reliably engineered security solutions and services. Recognized for our high level of customer satisfaction, we have an enviable history of industry awards, reviews and certifications. Sophos is headquartered in Boston, MA and Oxford, UK.

Sophos's head office for the Asia Pacific region is located in Sydney and features research and development, threat analysis and technical support facilities.