New worm for Mac OS X?

An independent coder claims to have developed a new worm for Mac OS X computers. An unnamed, proof-of-concept project, the worm exploits a variation of the mDNSResponder vulnerability recently addressed by Apple -- if not completely, according to the coder. Once an attack is successful, the worm grants remote root access, and places a text file on the desktop before moving on to other systems in the same network. Theoretically, an improved version could be a serious threat, randomly attacking networks across the world and depositing malcious software instead of text.

The writer of Information Security Sell Out, however, says he has merely tested it on local systems and will eventually share his information with Apple, so that the vulnerability can be fixed. Part of his stated goal is to dispel notions that Mac OS X is somehow more secure than Windows, an aim shared with many current security commentators.

by MacNN Staff