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Game Theory, Antivirus Improvements Explain Rise In Mac Malware
Sparrowvsrevolution writes "Four years ago, security researcher Adam J. O'Donnell used game theory to predict in a paper for IEEE Security and Privacy when malware authors would start targeting Macs. Based on some rough assumptions and a little algebra, he found that it would only become profitable to target Apple's population of users when they reached 16% market share. So why are we now seeing mass attacks on Macs like the Flashback trojan when Apple only has 11% market share? O'Donnell says it turns out he may have underestimated the effectiveness of the antivirus used by most Windows users, which now makes overconfident Mac users a relatively vulnerable and much more appealing target. Based on current antivirus detection rates, O'Donnell's equations now show that victimizing Macs becomes a profitable alternative to PCs at just 6.5% market share."
Pretty much this. In most cases the weakest link is between keyboard and chair and chain is as strong as its weakest link.
How exactly is OSX more secure than Windows 7, assuming both are patched and not used by total morons that click Yes to everything?
Yes, however, I think the GP just venting due to all of the "I have a Mac, so I'm immune to malware" and "Oh, they had problems because they used a PC, they should have gotten a Mac!" that has being going on for so long, even by some here on slashdot.
But, of course, you are correct, it is the user that is the biggest security vulnerability of a computer, in most cases.
Self proclaimed typo king, and inventor of the bear destroying coffee table (patent not pending).
Sorry, but if Linux had enough market share, they'd be targeted too.
"Linux" is not one operating system. There are very secure distributions, and then there are distributions that are not so secure, and then there are distributions that can be secure if you stick to best practices.
Palm trees and 8
I've frequently pointed it out to people.
I've told many 'smug' mac users that the only reason they're not getting viruses like PC's are is because it's not worth it. No one cares about your myspace profile or your doodle you did this morning.
Major businesses handling credit card information or valuable corporate information is ran on PCs, it has all the financial data and so on, hence the target.
As soon as macs become popular and worth while, they'll get viruses too.
And here we are.
This just in, Antivirus products can't block shit they haven't seen before!
Film at 11.
Random Thoughts From A Diseased Mind (Not For Dummies)