Infosec Island: Dispelling Myths about Apple Products and Viruses

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February 28, 2011
Contributed By: Theresa Payton

Article by Fortalice Intern Michael Senatore

For years, Apple products have had one up on the PC regarding viruses and malware. However, due to increased market share, that time may be coming to an end.

Throughout the history of Apple products there has been a long standing consumer myth that they are incapable of becoming infected with viruses. Most believe that the Mac Operating System was simply more secure than that of PC.

Although the system may be more secure, it is still vulnerable to malware and other infections. One needs to look no further than the fact that Apple sells anti-virus software from many of the leading names in the virus protection industry. What really gave Apple its edge was their lack of market penetration, a result of occupying a small portion of the computer sales industry.

Simply put, if you want to catch a fish, you go to the pond with the most fish. That “pond” has always been PC’s. However, along with their growing popularity and rise in market share, Apple products are becoming more vulnerable to viruses and other harmful infections.

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