First Mac OS X worm detected

First Mac OS X worm detected

Global cyber security experts this week discovered the first virus, called Leap-A, for the Apple Mac OS X platform, which spreads via the iChat instant messaging system.advertisement
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SophosLabs explains that the worm forwards itself as a file called latestpics.tgz to contacts on an infected user’s “buddy” list. When opened on a computer, the file disguises itself with a JPEG graphic icon in an attempt to fool users that it’s harmless.

The worm, says SophosLabs, uses the text “oompa” as an infection marker in the resource forks of infected programs to prevent it from re-infecting the same files.

Brett Myroff, CEO of local Sophos distributor Netxactics, says the increased uptake of the Mac OS X platform has prompted it to be targeted by malware, and urges users of all operating systems not to be complacent.

“Leap-A shows that the malware threat on Mac OS X is real,” he says.

Pffft, it is not a true virus. Bloody stoopid South African journalists.