Apple advises on Mac Defender threat

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Apple has promised an OS X update to protect its products against the Mac Defender fake anti-virus (AV) threat.

Last week a number of reports claimed the software was running rife through the Mac community, as more and more users were tricked into downloading the fake AV.

As a result, users gave up cash and credit card details, whilst being left with infected machines.

Apple has remained quiet about the threat up until now, but today posted advice on its website, alongside the promise of an imminent OS update.

“In the coming days, Apple will deliver a Mac OS X software update that will automatically find and remove Mac Defender malware and its known variants,” the support document read.

“The update will also help protect users by providing an explicit warning if they download this malware.”

For those who have already downloaded Mac Defender – also marketed as MacProtector and MacSecurity – Apple has provided a step-by-step guide of how to remove it manually.

“Apple provides security updates for the Mac exclusively through Software Update and the Apple Support Downloads site,” the support document concluded.

“Users should exercise caution any time they are asked to enter sensitive personal information online.”

Click here to read the advice and instructions.

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