Just some help to the mac users and their 'invincible' os

Intego, makers of security and privacy apps for the Mac, warned on Tuesday that some Mac software include a new piece of invasive spyware. Macworld has obtained a preliminary list of the applications with the spyware.

In a press release, Intego states that a number of apps and screen savers distributed through sites like MacUpdate, VersionTracker, and Softpedia are installing a little more software than users bargain for; Apple's Mac OS X Downloads site also contained entries for some of the apps, though the download links appear to now be inactive. The spyware in question is called OSX/OpinionSpy and it's a variant of Windows spyware that has existed since 2008.

As to the spyware's invasive actions, it allegedly dupes users into handing over their admin passwords with a dialog claiming that it "market research" software will be installed to collect browsing and purchasing history.

OSX/OpinionSpy then installs a process called "PremierOpinion" that runs as root. Intego says the spyware then opens an HTTP backdoor on port 8254, scans all accessible local and networked volumes, and injects code into Safari, Firefox and iChat in memory (meaning it doesn't alter the applications themselves). It also regularly transmits encrypted data to a variety of servers, which contains e-mail addresses, iChat message headers, and URLs--as well as potentially personal data like usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, bookmarks, and browsing history.

OSX/OpinionSpy can also upgrade itself automatically with no user intervention and relaunch itself via Mac OS X's launchd, the system-wide process that manages a number of automated systems, background daemons, and launch processes. Furthermore, upon uninstalling the original program, OSX/OpinionSpy remains installed on your Mac.

So far, Intego has found OSX/OpinionSpy in one application--MishInc FLV To Mp3--and a number of screensavers (here's a MacUpdate example link) that are all made by 7art-screensavers:

I don't understand why you hate Apple so much Turd?

They make most solid, fast, and safe computers on the market. They are the industry standard for music and imaging for a very good reason.

I agree with Beej, Macs are good. But with the world seemingly on apples **** and people scrambling for them. What will these punks who write these little infectious programs to do then? Most likely start to target Macs OS.... unfortunately.

it allegedly dupes users into handing over their admin passwords with a dialog claiming that it "market research" software will be installed to collect browsing and purchasing history.

Really?? I don't have any anti virus software on my Mac. I would not give passwords to any Tom, **** or Harry, and am careful about what I download. Seems to have worked so far for me.

My PC on the other hand, I am always having to keep my Norton up to date.

When you were a child did macs bully you? Let it go man. Let it go!

I have always looked at my computers as tools to do my job. I happen to like Apple because it makes things easy. And, I've spent many, many years using Windows, Unix, and Linux as desktop environments and in the end once I bought a Mac I've never wanted to own a PC again.

mac is my king.

I'm sorry you're cheap but i don't feel guilty.

The Apple is easy to use I guess, and quite pretty, and powerful - it simply doesnt have the applications I need, but the one point you are all missing...and I hate to have to point this out for obvious reasons...I dont think the article was written by the OP, but even if it was, the spyware threat is real and is not originated by the OP.

Don't let your indignation at being shown a potential problem on what you perceive as perfect, blind you to something that could steal your passwords, credit card numbers etc.

Don't say "We can't be infected; its a MAC!"... its only a computer, and now they are becoming much more widespread, they make a much bigger profile for the virus writers to target...in fact... a worthwhile target precisely because Mac users think they are protected, even without anti-virus software etc.

It's not like a PC grezzzy, it doesn't just come and infect randomly... You basically have to be stupid enough to allow an unknown program asking ridiculous questions to let you in. The spyware threat is being touted from a PC antivirus company trying to make a market for itself in the Mac OS.

I don't know anyone with, or ever having an infected Mac but everyone with MSN (via a pc) on my list has some kind of silly trojan or spyware sending their crap my way... i can even click on the false links and nothing happens, however no one has ever reported a random message from myself.

Until something can get in without my physical knowledge or say so i will happily run my virus and anti-virus free Mac the same i have been for the last 4 years. Free of bloatware, spyware, viruses and trouble..

There are no known viruses for mac and only enough malware you can count on one retarded hand with missing fingers, all of which require access via permission. Most of those are macro viruses which come from? you guessed it..! MS office..

I pray that you never reproduce Paul.

Well its just a thought... if there are none to worry about and no-one can ever write any, thats a very good selling point.