To combat the increasing number of Mac threats, PC Tools is releasing an anti-virus and anti-malware software tool called iAntiVirus, which is formulated specifically for Macs, without information about Windows-based threats.
It detects and removes viruses, spyware, keyloggers, Trojans, and socially engineered threats that can pop up on instant messengers and P2P applications.
PC Tools cites Apple’s recent recommendation in its Security Configuration Guide for its users to install virus protection software as evidence of the need for this type of product, despite the fact that Mac threats are not yet as serious and frequent as those for Windows.
“It is also important to note that whilst Mac OS attacks may not have proliferated widely; the payload they deliver is just as significant as it is in the Windows environment,” said PC Tools CEO Simon Clausen.
Only last month security advisors warned of
” target=”_blank”> two new malware attacks disguising themselves as a poker game, which tricks the user into entering the administrator password and uploads the information onto a remote server.
“The Mac has a solid reputation for remaining relatively threat free. However, we are witnessing the use of low level malware scripts, to identify whether there is the potential to infect the Mac OS, as well as the opportunity for malware producers to obtain a significant return on investment.”