Keep your Apple computer safe from Mac Defender malware (Yahoo! News)

One of the benefits of going with an Apple computer over a Windows-based machine is that most viruses and malware programs are designed to exploit Windows architecture, leaving Macs much less vulnerable. Earlier this month, some Apple forum-goers began reporting that a malicious program called Mac Defender was on the loose, tricking unsuspecting users into giving up credit card information and other information.

After being installed on a computer, which Apple warns can be done automatically and without a user's knowledge, the program performs a fake "scan" of the machine and reports that a virus is present. In the brief moment of panic that such a declaration can produce in many computer users, the malevolent program offers to remove the non-existent virus for a small fee, payable by credit card. But the scam doesn't end there; the unauthorized third party can now wreak havoc using the stolen financial information.

In the days since its discovery, Apple has acknowledged the threat is real, and the company is reportedly hard at work on an update that will remove the software. Until then, the Mac makers have posted a handy removal guide for those who prefer to take matters into their own hands. Follow the steps below — straight from Apple — to remove Mac Defender and make sure your computer is clean.

Move or close the Scan WindowGo to the Utilities folder in the Applications folder and launch Activity MonitorChoose All Processes from the pop up menu in the upper right corner of the windowUnder the Process Name column, look for the name of the app and click to select it; common app names include: MacDefender, MacSecurity or MacProtectorClick the Quit Process button in the upper left corner of the window and select QuitQuit Activity Monitor applicationOpen the Applications folderLocate the app ex. MacDefender, MacSecurity, MacProtector or other nameDrag to Trash, and empty TrashOpen System Preferences, select Accounts, then Login ItemsSelect the name of the app you removed in the steps above ex. MacDefender, MacSecurity, MacProtectorClick the minus button

Upon completing these steps, your Mac should be completely free of the offending program, but it's still crucial to keep your computer up to date on all suggested software updates.

Apple via VentureBeat

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