Apple’s operating system has recently become the target of a piece of malware known as Leap.A, which spreads through the iChat Instant Messaging service.
This virus automatically forwards a copy of itself as a file named “latestpics.tgz” to messaging addresses found in the contact list of the infected machine. If the recipient opens this file, the virus is activated and begins installing under the guise of a harmless JPEG icon.
UK security firm Sophos believes that Leap.A originated from a website used by Apple operating system users. It is disguised as an upgrade software. Although this virus is not particularly dangerous, it marks the first time a genuine attack program has targeted an operating system that has long been considered “safe.”
However, according to Graham Cluley, Chief Technology Officer of Sophos, this could still be just a proof-of-concept malware: “Some Mac OS X users believe that this operating system is immune to viruses, but Leap.A will make them reconsider.” He also noted that some Mac users still assert that Leap.A is not a real threat because it requires clicking on a link. However, Cluley emphasized that this interpretation is ridiculous, as most modern viruses spread through user interactions such as clicking on links in emails or instant messages.
P.K.
