Apple announced in a support document this evening (via The Loop) that its plans to release a tool for detecting and removing the Flashback virus currently installed on 1 percent of all Macs. Furthermore, Apple also plans to work with ISPs across the globe to disable the computer servers that are hosting the malware.
Security experts over the past few weeks warned Mac users about the Flashback virus, which is now installed on roughly 600,000 Macs worldwide. Apple already released two updates to Java in the hopes of fixing vulnerabilities. While it has been patched, Flashback can be detected on a Mac through a free tool. Therefore, it is definitely worth checking to see if you have it. Luckily, it seems like Apple’s new tool will make things a bit easier for users. There is no word on when this will be released.
In addition to the Java vulnerability, the Flashback malware relies on computer servers hosted by the malware authors to perform many of its critical functions. Apple is working with ISPs worldwide to disable this command and control network.
Image via Lifehacker
