Apple Blames Microsoft for iPod Virus

UPDATED: Apple Computer is apologizing to owners of recent video
iPods users who may find their devices infected by a Windows-based virus.

While
the RavMonE.exe virus is rated a low risk by anti-virus companies, the
Cupertino, Calif.-based computer maker is pointing a finger of blame at
Microsoft.

Apple said it discovered the RavMonE.exe virus on video iPods leaving a
contract manufacturer and effects units purchased after Sept. 12, 2006.
Owners of iPod nanos, shuffles and Mac OS X operating system are unaffected,
according to the Cupertino, Calif-based computer maker.

The virus propagates using mass storage devices connected to Windows
machines, such as external hard drives, digital cameras, removable media and
USB flash drives. The effect is mild: your computer security settings are
lowered and is easily-detected, according to McAfee .

Microsoft, however, said the virus does not appear to take advantage of a Windows vulnerability.

“It is important to note that no operating system is immune to malicious
software,” a Microsoft spokesperson noted.

Microsoft also encouraged third-party vendors to scan products for malicious
software before devices are shipped to consumers.

McAfee also announced a new version of its Stinger software to remove the
virus, which it labels W32/RJump.worm. The worm, which converts itself to a
Windows portable executable file to create a system backdoor, was discovered
June 20, according to a statement from the anti-virus company.

The virus is easily-disabled with anti-virus software and the company
said it has seen less than 25 reports of the virus. But that didn’t stop Apple from taking a swipe at its PC rival amid its own mea culpa.

“As you might imagine, we are upset at Windows for not being more hardy
against such viruses, and even more upset with ourselves, for not catching
it,” Apple told video
iPod customers on its Website. The company assured customers all video iPods
are now shipping free of the virus.

Apple, which unveiled
the video iPod in 2005, assured consumers no video iPods now shipping
include the virus.

Apple said Windows users should attach the video iPod to their Windows
machines and run an anti-virus application. If the virus is found, consumers
can then use ITunes 7 to restore the iPod’s software. Apple also provided
links to trial versions of several anti-virus software packages, including
Microsoft Live OneCare.