MAC Defender is a fake antivirus program that targets Mac users, according to Intego's . Like nearly all malware attacks, it preys on novices.

First, its creators use SEO "poisoning" tricks to get malicious sites placed near the top of search engine results. Unsuspecting users who click certain links are sent to a rogue site, where JavaScript on the page automatically downloads a file. If a specific web browser option is checked--such as one allowing Safari to open "safe" files after downloading-- the malware file decompresses and its installer appears on screen. If the user clicks "Continue," the rogue app will install.

Intego lists MAC Defender as a "low" risk--a virus that exists in the wild, but is not widespread at this time. Bott's investigative work, however, suggests that many unsuspecting Mac users have already fallen for this bit of malware trickery.

Perhaps more troubling is the alleged Apple rep's statement that AppleCare's Terms of Service doesn't allow support staffers to help with malware removal. Most of the AppleCare reps do anyway--with the tacit approval of their immediate supervisors--but could "face write-ups and even termination" if they're caught, the rep says.

The easy solution, of course, is for Mac users to install (real) antivirus software. And if Mac malware attacks grow in frequency, it wouldn't be surprising if Apple adds antivirus protection to the Mac OS.