OSX/OpinionSpy spyware in Mac apps

There is no doubt that the Mac is more secure than Windows computers, but this isn't because the operating system is more secure, but because hardly anyone bothers to create spyware and viruses for the Mac. It's mostly security through obscurity. It's not the whole reason of course, but the small number of Macs relative the Windows PCs plays a big part in its security. As the Mac's popularity increases, we'll see more security threats and you'll need to be on your guard. Intego, a security company, has recently found OSX/OnionSpy Spyware in many Mac apps at popular Mac download websites. Read the security memo here and see the list of infected apps here.

Of course, we are nowhere near the situation that exists on Windows and there is still so little malware for the Mac that it's not time to panic and buy tons of security software. The most worrying aspect of this malware outbreak is that that the OSX/OnionSpy Spyware has been found at websites like Version Tracker and Softpedia, which you would assume were trustworthy.

It is common for big software distribution websites to routinely scan Windows files for malware before they are posted and I've not found any malware in the tons of Windows software I've downloaded from them over the years. If you can't trust sites like Version Tracker and Softpedia for Mac software then is it worth using them? I think we need some reassurance from these sites that the Mac software they post has been checked for malware. It certainly makes you think twice about downloading an app for your Mac from either of them.