Technolog - Malware attack specifically targets Mac users

Technolog - Malware attack specifically targets Mac users: "Part of the reason many are being easily infected by the malware is that Safari — the default browser in Mac OS — can be set to automatically open trusted software. This means that users are getting infected without even a hint of what's happening until the malicious app demands payment for 'protection' like a digital mob boss.

The good news? So far it doesn't appear that the malicious MacDefender app does much, other than attempt to scare people into forking over their credit card numbers. It can even be easily removed:

To ensure you do not automatically download the app, uncheck the following: Safari > Preferences > General > uncheck 'Open 'safe' files after downloading.'
Searching for the application and deleting it directly may fail, saying the app is in use. To stop it running, check Activity Monitor (in Applications > Utilities) and disable anything that relates to MacDefender.
Look in /Library/StartupItems and, same place, LaunchAgents and LaunchDaemons for references to the malware app.
Once quit, head to the Applications folder and drag the MacDefender app to the trash, then delete trash.
To ensure all references to the app are cleared, run a search using Spotlight and delete all MacDefender references you find.

As a precaution, it would be wise for Safari users to toggle the 'Open 'safe' files after downloading' setting whether they're infected or not. It could prevent attacks similar to this one.

- Sent using Google Toolbar"