Did I catch some java spyware?

Discussion in 'Mac Basics and Help' started by caipirina, Aug 5, 2013.

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  1. caipirina, Aug 5, 2013

    caipirina macrumors member

    Joined:
    Jan 28, 2002
    #1
    After a lot of googling and trying I am still left clueless and am hoping to find some answers here now.

    About a week ago I wanted to play 'rocket mania' again (web based) and I was prompted that my java is not up-to-date ... I followed the instructions from a reliable website (well .. ) and something did not 'feel' right .. eventually I got my game to run ...

    But ever since then, about every 60 minutes I barely notice a prompt window popping up. The only way to capture it was with a 240fps camera. It asks me

    'Do you want the application 'java' to accept incoming network connections' ... and then deny / allow .. but i do not even have time to click anything, my guess it allows itself.

    I have googled this and either there is talk about some older java-virus (?) that popped up about a year ago and Apple addressed that with a security update or someone even said 'this is just how it is ...

    Now I sometimes see a pop-under window for some spam ads, my connection is overall wonky (but that could also be my location) .. I ran Sophos to scan for viruses. I tried MacScan, until I read I should NOT use this (but have not found any alternative). There is nothing named mackeeper in my system.

    Running 10.8.4
     

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  2. GGJstudios, Aug 5, 2013

    GGJstudios macrumors Westmere

    GGJstudios

    Joined:
    May 16, 2008
    #2
    I recommend avoiding Sophos, as it can actually increase a Mac's vulnerability, as described here and here. 3rd party antivirus apps are not needed to keep a Mac malware-free, as long as the user practices safe computing, as described in the following link. If you need to perform a scan for some reason, ClamXav (which is free) is one of the best choices, since it isn't a resource hog, detects both Mac and Windows malware and doesn't run with elevated privileges.

    Also, you can check your firewall settings in System Preferences > Security > Firewall > Advanced to see if any app or process is blocked or is allowed incoming connections.

    You should leave Java disabled in your browser until you visit a trusted site that requires it. Always update any software from the App Store or directly from the developer's site or from within the app. Never update or install software based on a pop-up on any website.

    Read the What security steps should I take? section of the Mac Virus/Malware FAQ for tips on practicing safe computing.
     
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