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Apple Ships iPods with Windows Virus

By Nate Mook, BetaNews

October 17, 2006, 3:08 PM

Apple apologized Tuesday for shipping video iPods containing the Windows virus RavMonE.exe, which apparently made its way onto a small number of the ubiquitous devices at a manufacturing plant. Around 1 percent of units shipped after September 12, 2006 are affected.

RavMonE.exe is a mass storage virus that only affects Windows computers. According to antivirus vendors, which dub the malware Win32.RJump.a and Troj/Bdoor-DIJ, the virus is a Trojan that opens links to Web sites and allows others access to a computer.

After installation, the Trojan contacts several remote sites to report the infection and availability of the backdoor, according to security firm Sophos, which rates it as a low risk infection. All up-to-date antivirus applications should detect and remove the virus.

"So far we have seen less than 25 reports concerning this problem. The iPod nano, iPod shuffle and Mac OS X are not affected, and all Video iPods now shipping are virus free," Apple said in a statement on its support site.

The company also took the opportunity to blast Microsoft's Windows operating system for not doing more to protect customers from such malware. "As you might imagine, we are upset at Windows for not being more hardy against such viruses, and even more upset with ourselves for not catching it," Apple said.

iPod owners who might be at risk from the Trojan should run antivirus software to remove it from their computer. Customers can utilize Microsoft's free Windows Live OneCare Safety Scanner, which works within a Web browser.

"Because this Windows virus propagates via mass storage devices, we recommend that you scan any mass storage devices that you have recently attached to your Windows computers such as external hard drives, digital cameras with removable media, and USB flash drives," Apple added.

Although Mac OS X is not affected, the virus will remain on the device. Apple notes that customers can use the "restore" feature in iTunes 7 to wipe the iPod clean so it can be connected to Windows computers without problems in the future.

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By jjcmontana

edited Jul 8, 2007 - 12:20 PM

This is flipping ridiculous! Apple should be TESTING these things before releasing them. To even partially blame your biggest competitor because you messed up is a disgusting corporate manuever. You should be embarrassed, Apple. I certainly won't be buying one of your products, and never will. You see, I have this little infestation of good 'ol RavMon, that is so deep into my system, I can't seem to get rid of it, despite multiple virus and malware scans from different softwares. It's on every single SD Memory card I have, on all my external hard drives, has completly infiltrated my home theater PC, moved into my laptop, and as a result, gotten into my workplace network. Apple should be held financially responsible for their negligence. Steve Jobs needs to be put in his place. (a cold, dark, damp place)

Score: 0

By Techno-Crat

edited Oct 17, 2006 - 11:08 PM

Let me this this right....Apple ships a KNOWN virus on its harware and tells MS you should to more to fix this>>>>>>>>
Thats insane.....
Aple thought...Most of our IPOD buyers are MS so lets infect them bwahaahhahahahhaa..
Wake up MS you have a weak OS

Lets warp to your local hospital
Imagration wanna be comes in infected with bird flu AIDS, and countless other infections.
Then has the Gal to tell "North Americans" your fault cause you did not get shots!!!
Steve .... Your press dept really needs help man

Score: 0

By saraht

posted Oct 20, 2006 - 4:13 AM

GFI just responded to this issue with an article that warns about how easy it is for viruses and other malware to be introduced to corporate network. Companies are easily affected by iPods infected with malware, since most don’t seem to be aware of the dangers of media players and other portable storage devices.

http://www.gfi.com/news/en/ipodvirus.htm

Score: 0

By ThuleMan

edited Oct 19, 2006 - 10:18 AM

Hmmmmm, so MANY seemingly off-topic rants here...it's hard to know where to start.

Let's make this simple:
Apple does NOT get viruses -> True
Microsoft DOES get viruses -> True
Apple shipped a VERY POPULAR product (known to be used by many consumers that ALSO use Microsoft products) -> True

So who is at fault?

The consumer, for using the most popular OS available?
The consumer, for using the most popular Mp3/Media Device available?

No - not the consumer. The consumer is the victim.

Back to the question - Who is at fault?
I think it's obvious that the *responsibility* lies with Apple. They released the product - which contained the virus.
Microsoft, because of it's popularity in the marketplace, becomes a target...not necessarily the fault of Microsoft. It's the nature of the system.

Are Apple products affected? Most definitely.
Should the customer beware? Most definitely.
Has Apple (with it's attempt at SPIN) done anything that Microsoft (or any other mainstream company) would not have tried (in some form) - no.

I wonder - what will be the impact on IPod sales in the next quarter? Probably minimal.

As to the 'Microsoft is for idiots' comment - just showing your own lack of intelligence.

Can anyone guess what OS *I* use? I don't *think* I've given it away in my comments.

Score: 0

By Heero

posted Oct 19, 2006 - 2:16 PM

Let's make this simple:
Apple does NOT get viruses -> True
Microsoft DOES get viruses -> True
Apple shipped a VERY POPULAR product (known to be used by many consumers that ALSO use Microsoft products) -> True

So Close, should have read:

Let's make this simple:
Apple does NOT get viruses -> Flase, Just not as many as Windows.
Microsoft DOES get viruses -> True
Apple shipped a VERY POPULAR product (known to be used by many consumers that ALSO use Microsoft products) -> True

Score: 0

By Rageweaver

posted Oct 19, 2006 - 10:02 AM

ROFL! Wow...This made my day. GG Mac. GG Jobs. Go back to making a crappy OS and leave your iPod rest in peace.

Score: 0

By wincement

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 10:43 PM

Ahhh.... I love a good OS war.

It's always funny when absolute morons act like they're geniuses and post almost half of the 130+ comments on a story.

...and ironically, he calls everyone else a genius. The truth always comes out I guess.

Score: 0

By terminalx

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 5:22 PM

the problem with your source is...it does not dictate how much of that is mac...everyone knows ipods are selling all over the place...no surprise there...

Score: 0

By dhjdhj

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 11:21 PM

Hmmm, the latest source that I've found is right here on BetaNews

http://www.betanews.com/article/1161205774#c443285

Sigh

Score: 0

By dhjdhj

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 4:48 PM

I'm reposting this at the top because I'm rather tired of reading posts from people claiming that Macs are on the decline and suggesting my news sources are in error.

Reality check: the notice below is consistent with reports from reputable analysts who have been saying that Apple's share of the PC world has been growing at 15% for the last several years.
-----------------------------------

From today's (Oct 18th, 2006) Wall St. Journal Earnings report:

APPLE'S NET JUMPED 27% amid strong sales of iPod players and Macintosh computers. Revenue rose 32% to $4.84 billion.

Score: 0

By Grazer

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 5:25 PM

To nitpick just a little, that quote says nothing of market share, only increased income, and not how much of it is from iPod sales. It is quite possible that the figures below could be depicting a decline in Mac sales and a tremendous increase in iPod sales. I am not saying that is what it depicts, merely that those numbers are possible with a decline in Mac sales.

Score: 0

By dhjdhj

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 6:46 PM

If you want to nitpick, then you should check the full report (I didn't think I'd need to defend it so much).

The report today includes such things as

1) The company sold 1.6 million Macs, for revenue of $2.21 billion -- its best selling quarter for the computers ever

2) The company's notebook unit sales grew 56% in the quarter from the same period the previous year

Both of these tend to support the growth claims that have been made by reputable analysts such as Gartner and others whose business it is to look closely at Apple so as to provide earnings guidance and who are claiming 15% annual growth.

That in itself SHOULD be sufficient to dispel claims from people that Mac is shrinking.

Score: 0

By maniakmx3

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 1:37 PM

Go figure, Apple "accidently" infects Windows Machines with virus's...yeah...I belive that one.

Score: 0

By Mark Gillespie

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 4:09 PM

Actual malicious code, more damaging that the harmless Sony rootkit....

Score: 0

By guitardave78

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 8:05 AM

I love the fact that they still manage to blame M$ for it!!
"As you might imagine, we are upset at Windows for not being more hardy against such viruses"

Score: 0

By FlAshdobe

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 5:46 AM

Perhaps MS could sue Apple for infecting their almighty Windows OS :P

Score: 0

By maniakmx3

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 1:36 PM

Everyone got to Sue Sony didn't they?

Score: 0

By Neoprimal

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 1:53 AM

Though 2 wrongs don't make a right....I wouldn't be opposed to having my Zune with an OsX virus on it.
I can hear Apple now "How dare MS play such a dirty trick?!".

Score: 0

By Neoprimal

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 8:59 AM

Wow, sorry, didn't mean to upset anyone. I'm merely trying to have my point come across. Apple's reaction is completely illogical, to say the least. They should apologize to buyers AND to MS. I mean think about it for a minute, if my company sells beef, and the meat is infected somehow with, lets say, influenza, or some other virus with a vaccine, is it honestly fair for me to say "As you might imagine, we are upset at consumers for not being more hardy against such viruses, and even more upset with ourselves for not catching it."
It just doesn't make sense. Apologize to consumers, apologize to MS, and move on.

Score: 0

By maniakmx3

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 1:39 PM

Don't worry dude, there's alot of Idiots out there who don't know how to read and misinterperate alot of things...

Score: 0

By GS5

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 12:40 PM

"Wow, sorry, didn't mean to upset anyone."

Quit being such a p****!!! It's a forum you're supposed to piss people off:-)LMAO

Score: 0

By foxfyre

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 5:32 AM

No, what we hear is YOU positing and projecting YOUR feelings and imposing them on others.

Score: 0

By wincement

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 10:31 PM

You are a ****ing retard. What the hell do you think the comment system is for?

He's not imposing his opinion on anyone. He's expressing it. Did that offend you? I'm sorry. Maybe you shouldn't read it.

Score: 0

By The MAZZTer

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 10:16 AM

And YOU'RE projecting YOUR feelings onto him.

Score: 0

By Silentmaster101

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 8:10 AM

He has every right to post his opinion on a public forum now doesnt he? i dont see how he is imposing them on others. If you dont like it you could just leave. Although if you need to cry about it, it is your right to explain how his comment hurt your OSX loving feelings.

Score: 0

By PostDeals

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 10:11 PM

Someone is playing dirty, good job APPLE.

Score: 0

By drummerboy627

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 9:01 PM

so because my product has a virus on it, i should blame windows for not protecting against the virus on my product. obviously.

Score: 0

By foxfyre

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 3:07 AM

Nope, because you choose to run Windows, you accept the inherent risks that come with it. Like a big boy.

Just like it you buy a car and drive on the interstate, you assume risks and responsibilities for your actions and the products you put in the vehicle. You do not sue GM or Ford or BMW if you have an accident or if you put dirty gas in the tank. And if you chose to use an alternative fuel you assume the risks of what the product offers distinct from the vehicle. Even if it is made by GM Chevy or BMW.

Its amazing that in the InfoSec world, if I install an application and the OS is not patched to protect it, I can tell you who they blame, and the manufacturer is not the first! We are expected to have performed due diligence in maintaining the OS at the latest level. And individuals are held liable for their failure to due so! Especially when there is a LONG history of KNOWN problems inherent to the platform.

I guess in the high school and college world that there are only victims, and folks are not held accountable for maintaining systems at the latest levels of code.

Speaks volumes regarding the difference between the 2 worlds doesn't it.

Score: 0

By Stormprobe

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 10:48 PM

With that kind of flawed logic, perhaps Microsoft should make a virus for Mac computers and let it loose on the Internet, and then Apple can inherent risks that come with it. Like a little boy.

Score: 0

By Heero

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 10:28 PM

I'll keep that in mind if you get into a car accident man.

No ill will, but it's Apple's job to make sure that the IPod is safe, not Microsoft's.

Score: 0

By foxfyre

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 3:47 AM

So, using your logic, it is Microsoft's responsibility to keep Windows and my PC safe.

Right... Complete and utter BS.

At the very LEAST its a shared responsibility! And your blaming it on someone else is no better then someone else doing it!

Windows has known vulnerabilities, and it is your responsibility to patch them as they are identified and to use available precautionary tools And procedures. It is MS's responsibility to get their marvel under control. And it is a 3rd party vendor's responsibility to insure that their code is clean.

But ultimately, the fundamental source of the risk is the developer of the OS.

Score: 0

By Missy Snow

edited May 23, 2007 - 11:02 PM

Yes, it's the consumers' responsibility to protect their own computers. But it's Apple's responsibility to keep their product clean *FIRST*.

Windows is a more widely used and known platform and thus many hackers and such target Windows. Even if MS upgraded their programs to null the existing viruses, the hackers can still program it to attack the upgraded system.

It's rather like playing an online game, no? Even if you upgraded the anti-hacking software, hackers can still program their hacks to bypass the program.

Blame it on human greed to create those scripts to hack or infect people's computers.

But first, this is Apple's fault to overlook this virus.

With that said, I use both Windows and Mac.

Score: 0

By xyzcb1

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 9:21 AM

I have always wondering why Apple's fans are refer as lemming. Now, I finally see it.

Score: 0

By wincement

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 10:33 PM

ROFL

Score: 0

By Silentmaster101

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 8:15 AM

No it is microsoft's responsibility to keep it safe when shipped. there is no viri or spyware on it from factory.

I like how you can pick out windows flaws an utterly ignore the fact that this was apple's fault. you got a shrine to jobs in your bedroom in your mommy's basement too?

Score: 0

By cranbers

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:51 PM

haha, wtf? They ship ipod's with a virus on it and instead of explaining how that happened in detail they take the opportunity to blast windows?

They have to know this makes them look like a fool. However at 25 instances only, it sounds like they were loaded on them maybe by a disgruntled employee?

Score: 0

By Tenoq

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 9:38 PM

That would seem likely. It's almost inconceivable that it happened by accident in that kind of environment. A practical joker, perhaps? :)

Score: 0

By Floodland

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 11:18 PM

Enviroment where the ipods are built could surprise you badly. Some Apple factories in Asia were investigated for infra-human work conditions. Let me put it clear: Slaves working for food. No joke there. There, should be no surprise to find *anything* inside an iPod. A computer virus is a minor problem there...

Score: 0

By imafurby

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:19 PM

Apples, worms? There's a joke in there somewhere. How in the hell does this happen at a manufacturing plant?

Score: 0

By school1012

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:07 PM

Again Apple always blaming someone else for their mistakes...

"As you might imagine, we are upset at Windows for not being more hardy against such viruses, and even more upset with ourselves for not catching it," Apple said.

Score: 0

By Grazer

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:15 PM

Yeah, usually you don't leave the party you are "most upset" at as an "also".

Score: 0

By GS5

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 7:27 PM

If the tables were turned and it was M$ instead of Apple the whole world would have filed their lawsuits by now. And of course the first in line would be the EU.

Score: 0

By Tenoq

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 9:39 PM

If Microsoft did it there would be more than 25 cases, and they'd be claiming it wasn't their fault all the way to court.

Is that the 'turned-table' you were talking about?

Score: 0

By GS5

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 10:37 PM

I never said that they would not deny it, c'mon we're talking about M$ here. But how many lawsuits have been filed against Apple thus far??? All I'm saying is if it were M$ the lawsuits would be raining down on them.

It's the whole "M$ evil" "Apple good" syndrome.

Score: 0

By xyzcb1

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 9:23 AM

""It's the whole "M$ evil" "Apple good" syndrome. ""

No, I think it's more of "cash rich" MS. They free cash is more than enough to buy almost any company outright.

Score: 0

By GS5

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 12:14 PM

So everyone's pissed because M$ is successful and has enough money to buy the world 10 times over??? The whole point of having a business is to make money. 90% of companies out there have questionable business practices, M$ more that most but anyway. The other 10% will eventually be acquired by the 90%. Business is like poker, the more chips you have the more you can bluff and the more you can bully your competitors. And Bill Gates was a hell of a poker player. In the 80's Apple was just as bad, they did lots underhanded things to get ahead. It turns out that M$ was just better at it.

My point is, they are all scum.

Score: 0

By Heero

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 10:29 PM

Though I agree that MS would say it's not heir fault, but they wouldn't blame Apple.

Score: 0

By jshurst

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 9:31 AM

Agreed, I don't see any Microsoft commercials bashing Apple, but I do see Apple commercials bashing Microsoft every time I turn on the TV.

How about just make a better product and then let me decide what I want to use? I'd give it a shot if I could use my existing hardware.

I guess by their logic the person who wrote the virus shouldn't be at fault either...

Score: 0

By kholdstare

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 11:31 AM

dud what are you smokin? the apple commercials bashing MS? all the apple comercials are saying PC. do they mention any apps that windows uses. umm don't think so. geez too many kids on this form. betanews is turning into a daycare center

Score: 0

By Heero

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 5:51 PM

They make direct references...

If you want a prime example, look at the 'ILive' Vs. 'I've got a calculator' ad.

Apple takes every chance it gets to bash MS. Not that MS doesn't deserve it... But if MS started doing the same thing back, the Apple cult would cry bloddy murder.

Score: 0

By school1012

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:07 PM

So True

Score: 0

By wincement

edited Oct 17, 2006 - 7:12 PM

That's a lot of nice PR stuff, but how did the virus get on the devices in the first place? Is the manufacturing plant using "insecure" Windows machines which got infected and passed the virus on?

If so, I hope I'm not the only one who sees a massive amount of irony in that.

Score: 0

By crashoverride

edited Oct 17, 2006 - 6:18 PM

Apple: See, we told you Windows is less secure than Mac OS.

Gotta wonder who got fired over this.

Score: 0

By school1012

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:09 PM

It would be interesting if Apples macs were infected (storing the virus) and it oops copied onto several iPods

Score: 0

By Paul Skinner

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 5:38 PM

"The company also took the opportunity to blast Microsoft's Windows operating system for not doing more to protect customers from such malware."

Protecting themselves from apple? Do Apple really want Microsoft to turn on the offensive against the iPod? Quite easily they could withdraw access to iPods on the basis of security.

It even sounds like Apple *want* security vendors to class their product as malware carrying devices.

Maybe the Zune should come as standard with Mac Viruses.

I would like to point out that I would like an iPod, and they are actually good, cheap technology, but the c***iness of Apple is so baffling it is untrue.
I can't help feel that they're in for a fall.

Score: 0

By Tenoq

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 9:41 PM

That's a brilliant idea. Why not shutout the most successful MP3 player in the market, so people have to buy a Mac to use it?

Damn, why didn't I think of that!

Score: 0

By Silentmaster101

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 1:57 PM

whats more expensive buying a new mac to go with that ipod, or returning the ipod and buying a new mp3 player? i think the later makes more sense.

Score: 0

By foxfyre

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 7:25 PM

"Do Apple really want"

Not only do Windows folks need to fear VIRUSES, but we all need to deal with your poor grammar.

Protecting themselves from Apple. That is clever.

But perhaps that is why Windows folks have the plethora of VIRUSES to worry about! ...And Mac users don't!

Bottom line after all of your whining:
Windows users need to be ever vigilent against viruses, while Mac users need worry much less.

Deal with it!
And try to stay awake during class. You might come dangerously close to learning something.

Score: 0

By A c E

edited Jul 29, 2007 - 10:30 PM

Are you an idiot? Do you not realize that there a more people with windows based machines and that is the only reason that there are more viruses for windows?
Mac has more known unpatched vulnerabilities than windows vista.

I'm so tired of you idiots who think macs can do no wrong.

This site http://www.macfixitforums.com/ exists because there are problems with Macs.

If you know what you are doing, you won't get a virus. I have no antivirus software and have never gotten a virus.

Did you know that there is Norton for Macs now. Do you understand why?

And don't even get me started on Mac support.

Way to blindly accept what the Mac comercials are telling you. You are a true moron.

Also way to throw in big words to try and sound smart. Too bad it makes you sound like your average pretentious Mac zealout.

By all means though, keep up the good work. God forbid someone makes a typo. Obviously they should immediatly be discredited because it shows that they have absolutly no knowledge.

Score: 0

By wincement

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 10:34 PM

The only person I see whining is you.

Score: 0

By Silentmaster101

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 8:18 AM

you mean maybe mac os people should try creating their own os instead of stealing a version of linux to use as their core?

Score: 0

By Grazer

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:14 PM

And try to stay awake during class. You might come dangerously close to learning something.

Have people said things like that alot to you in your life? You seem to have an affinity for that style a phrase.

Score: 0

By terminalx

edited Oct 17, 2006 - 7:46 PM

he used do instead of does...you really are stretching here to make a point...as has been said more times then anyone can count apple has a small amount of marketshare and no one cares about trying to hack mac.. "ohhh I hacked a mac all 3 people that are using them"...mac releases tons of security updates as well its not just windows...the point is a device that is considered to be safe brought a virus to its users...it was there on purchase...the user didnt even have to do anything other then connecting it

Score: 0

By school1012

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:12 PM

So true. The first time I used OSX I was able to hack it in 15 minutes. I was very suprised since so many people say they are hard to hack.

Score: 0

By Tenoq

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 9:42 PM

Define: hack.

A Windows machine takes about 15 seconds to remove Administrator passwords. :P

Score: 0

By school1012

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 5:06 PM

Hack, clear OSX passwords and delete all system files without a reboot. THe next time the user trys to boot. How about faking and adding advertisment in Apple error report screen :)

Score: 0

By Mark Gillespie

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 1:32 PM

Suprised nobody has found a way to blame this on Sony...

Sending actual viruses on iPods is much worse than harmless rootkits, which shipped on a few thousands CD's

Score: 0

By templar™

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 9:41 PM

The Sony battery which the laptop ran on failed to ignite in time. Thus allowing the virus to spread.

There.

Score: 0

By notomat

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 4:05 AM

PRICELESS!!

Score: 0

By Galway

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 6:00 PM

apparently ... the laptop used to scan for viral threats and quality control was scrapped off the floor in a molten mess. Not even the safty flaw of having numerous laptops from various big names including there own to check in parrallel was safe from this melting issue.

hehe .. well you did ask.

Score: 0

By Paul Skinner

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 5:41 PM

erm... they run on Sony Batteries?
Therefore since they can't run without batteries they couldn't spread the virus because they couldn't switch on?

Therefore Sony are to blame for the virus affecting people.

That outlandish enough for you?

Score: 0

By Heero

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 5:49 PM

hahahaha

Score: 0

By Heero

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 4:50 PM

You know... Thinking about it.

It really wasn't MS fault for not protecting their customer, but rather Apple's fault for not making sure that Apple's consumers wouldn't fall victim to something like this.

Why isn't Apple making sure that their product are up to specs?

First melting laptops, then random shutdowns, and now viruses... Wonderfull quality control there guys.

Score: 0

By Paul Skinner

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 5:42 PM

Their quality control has always been 'interesting' to say the least.

The first few versions of any new product are always something to steer clear of, but this just adds to the intrigue.

Score: 0

By Heero

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 5:49 PM

Indeed...

Score: 0

By Galway

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 4:26 PM

"The company also took the opportunity to blast Microsoft's Windows operating system for not doing more to protect customers from such malware."

LOL and what more could THEY have done to protect THERE customers ... Virus scan? Quality control?

Score: 0

By GS5

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 7:35 PM

Hey, if they were using a symantec antivirus tons of viruses could have made their way into the ipod's os. LMAO

Score: 0

By Galway

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 3:17 AM

Good point :P

Score: 0

By foxfyre

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 4:16 PM

Hey, you build a Windows image and you are likely to encounter a virus! Thats life in the world of Windows. What, so Apple missed the latest (of HOW many has it been now?? - I would LOVE to see the figure!!!) round of MS patches...

Why should Apple be any more successful in avoiding WINDOWS viruses than MS and the rest of the victims... I mean users... no, I was right the first time, who use Windows?

Enjoy!!! Its Windows! And Windows users Love their viruses! An inseparable combination. Its part and parcel of the "Windows Experience"!

Score: 0

By GCoder

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 11:54 AM

EXACTLY.

ENJOY WINDOWS USERS.

HAVE FUN.

(ignoring windoze trolls like below ••••••••)

Score: 0

By Paul Skinner

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 5:55 PM

How could I guess your clumsy ham-fisted approach to a comment would be here at a Windows/Mac story.

Got nothing better to do?

Quality Control doesn't seem to be your strongpoint either.

Score: 0

By foxfyre

edited Oct 17, 2006 - 7:19 PM

Read a history book lately?

Or are you too afraid to be monitored by the commonplace video surveillance in the land of the socialism as you fear coming to the US because the extent of their overreaching social surveillance is to want a small scattering of personal info?

Oh, I guess you are upset that the US didn't ask you for permission to establish their own requirements! After all, Europe has done such a Grand job over the last century of insuring civil rights and freedom. In which country is the genocide this month?

If only we had known it would only take that to keep geniuses like you out, we should have implimented it sooner! You see! Its amazingly effective!

Score: 0

By Paul Skinner

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 5:29 AM

You're perminantley pissed off, aren't you.

Calm down or get out.

Score: 0

By terminalx

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:34 PM

what does your inane comment have to do with apple shipping a windows virus?

Score: 0

By foxfyre

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:53 PM

It was a reply to his comment about my comment.
But as you obviously, by your own admission, have no clue, your ignorance only makes you stupid.

Score: 0

By Silentmaster101

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 8:22 AM

you spelled "fire" wrong in your name there.

Score: 0

By wincement

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 10:36 PM

LOL

Score: 0

By Grazer

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 4:48 PM

None of my computers have ever been infected with a virus, they all have run Windows operating systems, all have spent long hours with an always on broadband connection. Actually, I have only even encountered viruses about 3 times...ever. Why? Because I get updates regularly, stay away from the the dark alleys of the internet (or at least carry protection in the form of security utils when I do), and stay behind a router. If I ever decided to use a mac, I would do the same...because in my personal use, Windows viruses are not any more common than Mac ones.

Score: 0

By foxfyre

edited Oct 17, 2006 - 7:19 PM

Well, You've heard it here.

The rumors of Windows viruses and the need for patches is all an illusion.

"Windows viruses are not any more common than Mac ones."

So, in your extremely limited exposurte to the Net you have encountered ONLY 3 viruses.

Compare that the Mac servers running 24/7 on the Net that have not had any viruses!

So by your limited experience, Windows only has a 300% greater chance of encountering a virus than a Mac.

"Windows viruses are not any more common than Mac ones."

You might want to pay more attention in math class.

Hmmm. At least two companies have failed to successfully market a commercial Mac Anti-Virus product! Not because they didn't work, but because there is no market!

Try running Windows without anti-virus!

Score: 0

By wincement

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 10:40 PM

You might want to pay more attention in math class.

You might have wanted to pay more attention in your 4th grade math class. Or are you still in 3rd grade?

3 to 0 != 300%

3 to 1 == 300%

Score: 0

By Silentmaster101

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 8:23 AM

ive done that since xp was released

Score: 0

By blendar

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:16 PM

In all honesty, I ran without anti-virus software for well over a year and did just fine without it. My computer is in perfect shape and there were no problems. The only reason I'm running anti-virus right now is because of my university requiring it for access to the network.

Score: 0

By Grazer

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 8:06 PM

You know, your tirade may have had a point if you didn't omit a very important part of the statement you jumped on "in my personal use, Windows viruses are not any more common than Mac ones."

But apparently, you cannot understand that complex of a statement. Is Apple keeping things too simple?

You might want to pay more attention in math class.

Really? 3 is 300% more than 0? I guess I should've.

You wanna see selective quoting?
Hmmm. At least two companies have failed to successfully market a commercial Mac product! Not because they didn't work, but because there is no market!

Score: 0

By foxfyre

edited Oct 17, 2006 - 9:03 PM

No genius, the problem is that you have extrapolated your personal experience to make some kind of broad statement about the risk of viruses in the Windows marketplace. Something even Microsoft disagrees with.

And even you went from no threat to at least 3 more occurances than on a Mac. Sorry the math is so complex. Maybe you can practice as you tally your Holloween candy after your mom has it xrayed for the terrible threats espoused in the urban myths that you evidently believe in.

...Like Windows viruses....just an urban myth.
Is MS overly paranoid?

So much angst from those who claim to have no interest in other platforms and especially about one they say doesn't even matter.

Score: 0

By Grazer

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 12:45 PM

...you have extrapolated your personal experience to make some kind of broad statement about the risk of viruses in the Windows marketplace
I don't recall saying a thing about the Windows marketplace. I was merely pointing out that, with proper precautions and safe practices, Windows is no less safe than a mac. (But I am sure you will leave off the middle of that sentence in your response.)

Sorry the math is so complex.
You still haven't told me how 3 is 300% more than 0. I can't even do that with calculus or linear algebra. (Well, maybe with linear algebra; but most likely only in a higher dimension.)

So much angst from those who claim to have no interest in other platforms and especially about one they say doesn't even matter.
It's not the Mac platform I have an issue with, it is the obnoxious condescension and undeserved smugness of its creators and some of its users.

Score: 0

By THZGryphon

posted Oct 17, 2006 - 9:43 PM

"So much angst from those who claim to have no interest in other platforms and especially about one they say doesn't even matter."

Keep repeating it, maybe people will ignore your angst.

Score: 0

By foxfyre

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 12:07 AM

But not you genius!!!

It is so easy to push the buttons of the Windows folks who are so preoccupied with a machine they themselves claim is insignificant. And it is hilarious to watch those who say a company is so bad that they would never buy their products. As if they actually walked their talk, any issue of a IPod infecting their easily infected system would be moot.

But I am sure the whine of the folks trying to convince themselves that Windows doesn't have a MAJOR security issue will keep trying to make their OS more secure by saying that other OSes can occasionally fall subject to the same thing that their's does. As if saying that someone else can catch a cold makes you healthier! Hahaha!

So remind us again, How many thousands of unique real world viruses exist for Windows each year????

Score: 0

By Heero

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 12:11 AM

Well... Look at this way.

There was a virus found for Windows computers... The fault has been confirmed.

If the fault had been found for Macs, Apple would have claimed it never existed, and patched in the next ITunes Update, and hope that no one notices. Then when asked about it later, still deny, deny, deny.

The issue at hand is not that Windows has security issues.. Does everyone know this, Yeah, pretty much. Some have better luck or are better users then others.

But at the same time, I have seen OSX WiFi networks hacked, Botnet setup on OSX desktops, bad programs that totally takes apart a OSX system and forces an reinstall. I've seen it all.

It's not a security issue, it never has been... It's a fact that Apple blames another company for their screw up. If a car maker builds a car, and puts in faulty bumper and the car gets into a crash and the bumper fails and the driver dies, who do you think will be blamed? You think the driver will get the heat because they got hit and killed? Or the car maker for messing up the bumper?

When the whole Mac-Book WiFi threat came out, Apple denied, then blamed Intel, then blamed Microsoft, and quietly patched it. This is not the first(and probably won't be the last) time that Apple has stepped aside and passed the blame onto someone else, when they were responsible.

As a final point; if Apple wasn't at fault, why did they apologize? Why say your sorry if you didn't do anything wrong? It's another "makes us look good and make them look bad" tactic, which is the only thing that seems to be working for them lately. See 'Get A Mac Ads'.

Honestly man, get your head out of the grown and look around. Apple is doing the same thing MS did in the past to get ahead. It's the best way to get business... scare people away from the competitor. How do you think elections work? Huh?

I hope this settles this: Which is better OSX Vs. Windows. They both have their ups, they both have their downs. Just leave at that guys, come on.

Score: 0

By foxfyre

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 2:58 AM

Apple this Apple that Apple this Apple that
Fair and unbiased.

And the Intel Wi-Fi chip was hacked on the COMMON PC platforms! When the story broke, the hackers pointed out that it was a problem common to the Wi-Fi chipset, not a particular OS platform. How did it gain traction? Did you see any Windows WiFi hacked? Would they have even gotten covereage with that claim or would it havebeen lost in the noise floor of Windows problems? We all know the answer to that! Can't deal with the fact that Mac is just a PC? What distinguished Apple is that they have been the only manufacturer to offer a patch that addressed the hardware/firmware issue at the OS level. Another major manufacturer has failed to effectively address it in any form.

No one debated whether a virus was present as you try to argue with your if Apple blah blah blah. Funny, the story said that. No one denied it. And saying that the threats persist due to OS shortcomings neither deflects Apple's responsibility nor the fact that the assertion is true. Oh, and your 'no one sues a hardware manufacturer' in your car analogy is utterly bogguss. Ask Ford with the "Explorer episode" - funny, you don't hear it referred to as the "Firestone episode"! Opps!

While I cannot say that shipping any product with a virus is good, this is not the first time this has been done! ...including by MS! But one could argue that it would have been worse if Apple shipped a virus for its own platform.

"Its never been a security issue" - great, if that is how the MS fanboys want to spin it! It has always - from the mid 80's, been an emotional issue where PC people have felt the need to say their OS was as good as the Mac. Including MS's original attempt to license it.

It continued through the Windows 95 rollout where they went to great lengths to present it as good as the Mac, as they amazing discovered a GUI; and it continues now with Vista.

Oh, and the whine about Mac ads pointing out problems with Windows - you sound like the politician getting his posterior handed to him who says Why deal with issues! That is sooooo negative! Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain! Let's just talk about how everything is roses rainbows and puppydogs. If the ads are working its because too many relate to the points that are making!

People who are not threatened by something do not continue to worry and fret over it. Nor do the respond with hate. The appropriate response is indifference. And there are far more Windows folks whining here than from ANY other platform. And there are some Mac fanboys as well - only they are far fewer in number!

But there is no sign of indifference in the Windows crowd, especially as the Mac also does Windows and the platform is the latest incarnation of the Intel roadmap, up to and including the Intel next generation EFI bios. So...why are you still whining? Threatened by the choice or concurrent use of several OSes? It would seem to me that such a choice expands opportunity and should be welcomed by all. But that is a Fascinating phobia you have there!

Why do Windows users care at all about OSX? Talk about Windows and the marvelous pristine MS whom everyone loves. You have your hands full. And the Mac does Windows! I thought that was a good thing...

Funny, I live in the AIX world...and we routinely run systems of MUCH greater complexity. And our security concerned go far beyond what Windows has dreamed of doing. We are targets for everything from national security secrets to major commercial databases. Funny, but we're not having the problems another major vendor is having. And we are a MUCH larger target offering a MUCH more valuable prize! But you are right, for us and others, the primary concern is not OS security; rather the focus on security is on other aspects of the distributed systems. And yet I don't hear myriad complaints here between zealots of the various databases and their exposures...

To me, the advantage of the Mac is that it supports the most POSIX compliant version of UNIX on the market, and with its Windows and UNIX file compatibility it can communicate seamlessly between the different worlds...and run Windows and the various Linux and BSD variants. Windows cannot do that. So the Mac offers functionality above what a Windows or Linux/BSD box, where neither can natively communicate with the other, offers. Its a tool that offers increased functionality. I don't waste time debating whether my pliers or my screwdrivers are more valuable. I use the one best for the job. And the choice is good. And the market stats show that many are opting for that increased functionality. Period.

I am very tired of listening to the high level noise floor of ignorant Windows users whine that choice is bad.

So, if its not an issue, why do the Windows people invariably show up by the busloads to whine? In all of the threads! And despite Windows owning the bulk of market share! If functionality and security aren't issues, what is? You only wish you could ignore the elephant in the room.

Score: 0

By Heero

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 6:05 PM

Never said I was a dedicated Windows users...

Like you, I use the right tool, for the job. I work in the music production world, thats what I do. When I go into a studio, I use the G5 hooked up the ProTools board, and work. When I'm at home I use my Linux box to surf the net, do my mail, and post on BetaNews.

When I want to play games I boot up Windows, and play, thats about it.

And if Apple TRUELY wanted to get everyone running in a wonderfull world of 'OSX' then they would make it avaiable for all platforms, rather then getting people stuck with their own hardware.

Look around man, there is far more out there then what Steve Jobs tells you.

OSX = Unix
We all know this.

Mac = x86 bassed system
We all know this.

Mac = IDE/SATA hardware
We all know this.

So at the end of the day you are running a PC, it just has a preatty GUI on it.

As a side step, MS had a GUI before Win95, I still remember Windows 2.

Score: 0

By Grazer

edited Oct 18, 2006 - 1:00 PM

People who are not threatened by something do not continue to worry and fret over it. Nor do the respond with hate. The appropriate response is indifference. [...] So...why are you still whining?
Take a look at that again.

And yet I don't hear myriad complaints here between zealots of the various databases and their exposures...
This is a thread about an Apple product carrying a Windows virus. Why would we be talking about databases?

I am very tired of listening to the high level noise floor of ignorant Windows users whine that choice is bad.
You must have voices in your head because I have not heard any Windows users claim choice is bad. If anyone is against choice it is Apple, with their lock-in iPod tactics and prevention of OSX from running on non-Mac hardware.

Overall, you almost managed to hide your bias in favor of Apple, but you keep projecting Mac-zealot attitudes onto Windows users.

If functionality and security aren't issues, what is? You only wish you could ignore the elephant in the room.
Knowledgeable Windows users know and acknowledge there are security issues...with anything, and take the necessary security measures to protect themselves. It is the Mac zealot who normally claims absolute safety, ignoring the "elephant in the room".

Score: 0

By Intrusive_Rogue

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 9:04 AM

Wow, that was so long I didn't even bother to read it. Way to get your point across.

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By Silentmaster101

posted Oct 18, 2006 - 8:26 AM

maybe if there were enough people using macs then they might be able to find all its bugs. greater use leads to finding greater problems. the majority of windows problems are introduced by 3rd party software that was programmed badly. and microsoft makes patches to fix those holes too.

Score: 0

By THZGryphon

edited Oct 17, 2006 - 4:29 PM

Hypocrite.

You will probably respond with how your over punctuated, MySpace typical, hypocritical postings are in spite of others, similar to Apple.