Adware Proof of Concept Targets Mac

Finnish security firm F-Secure has discovered what is believed to be the first adware application built specifically for Mac OS X. The program does not require administrative privileges in order to install itself on the user's computer. Dubbed "iAdware" by the firm, it could be used as a popup launcher from Mac's built in web browser, Safari.

The program is currently not out in the wild, but has been provided as proof-of-concept code to researchers. Once a bastion of Internet safety, the Mac is now becoming an increasingly popular target for hackers as it's popularity grows.

"We won't disclose the exact technique used here, it's a feature not a bug, but let's just say that installing a System Library shouldn't be allowed without prompting the user. Especially as it only requires Copy permissions. An Admin could install this globally to all users," F-Secure reported.

"This is easier to do than with Windows. After all, it's a Mac," the company chided.

However, noted Mac pundit John Gruber says iAdware is just an application like any other. "The real trick is getting the adware installed on people’s computers, either via trickery or some sort of exploit. iAdware is not such an exploit."

"[T]he way F-Secure has reported this — with few actual details of what it is — is more about sowing fear than anything else," Gruber added.