Interesting scrape with Flashback malware last night. Safari browser on mac locked up, asking me to install new (bogus) video player version. Restarted Safari and it came right back up again, still not letting me use any other windows. Used my other mac to get more info--quickly identifying problem as Flashback. I went through detailed removal instructions at CNET (from 2012) and there was nothing to be found--could be new variant. Then I did a lot more browsing and found out that Mac's now have 3 levels of built-in malware protection (started in 10.6.7).
https://discussions.apple.com/message/22603815#22603815
Unless you have Java enabled (JavaScript is different and safe), or give permission to something that just pops up (never do that unless absolutely sure), or run questionable programs (e.g. pirated or BitTorrent) you are pretty safe. I ran software update (which invisibly runs Malware Removal Tool), and an hour later the malware was gone.
Built-in malware protection is definitely the way to go. 3rd party "virus" protectors on PC's are incredible resource hogs IME, and money hogs too since they require annual subscription fee. And those companies have inherent conflict of interest wrt dissemination of new malware (which makes my suspicious mind wonder who their friends are) to make you keep renewing. Apple does not have that conflict of interest (at least on a supported system). Years ago on PC's I tried two of the most well know virus protectors and felt they were worse than malware. Harder to remove also.
Another good idea is to have a second computer.
https://discussions.apple.com/message/22603815#22603815
Unless you have Java enabled (JavaScript is different and safe), or give permission to something that just pops up (never do that unless absolutely sure), or run questionable programs (e.g. pirated or BitTorrent) you are pretty safe. I ran software update (which invisibly runs Malware Removal Tool), and an hour later the malware was gone.
Built-in malware protection is definitely the way to go. 3rd party "virus" protectors on PC's are incredible resource hogs IME, and money hogs too since they require annual subscription fee. And those companies have inherent conflict of interest wrt dissemination of new malware (which makes my suspicious mind wonder who their friends are) to make you keep renewing. Apple does not have that conflict of interest (at least on a supported system). Years ago on PC's I tried two of the most well know virus protectors and felt they were worse than malware. Harder to remove also.
Another good idea is to have a second computer.
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