Apple users get hacked just like Windows

Myth: Mac users are armored against viruses, malware and identity theft.

Apple has a reputation for building computers with strong cyber security and protection from online threats. Remember those commercials where PCs were mocked for being more likely to "get sick"? Over the years, devoted iFans may have developed the belief that nothing can touch them and they are always safe. But recent news reports show that the same attacks launched against Facebook recently were also made on the computers of Apple employees earlier this week. This underlines a key point: When it comes to online attacks, no one is bulletproof.

Sources say that, as with Facebook, the source of a breach was a dangerous piece of software that hijacked the Java plug-ins of various web browsers. It was also distributed through a seemingly secure website for mobile developers. Although once again no data has been reported as being compromised, this still represents a red flag for anyone with sensitive material on the net – and these days, that's almost everybody. If some of the biggest names in the business can be susceptible to breaches like this, what makes your business safe?

The origins of these strikes is still a matter of some debate. While many suspect Chinese hackers, the same that have been systematically infiltrating media giants like the Wall Street Journal and Twitter, there's no conclusive evidence yet. But these events are still a good reason to be on high alert when it comes to the prevention of identity theft. There's no telling who has their finger on the trigger, or where they'll aim at next.

If you utilize Apple devices (iPhones, Macs, iPads) and still think it won't happen to you, be forewarned that you are inviting disaster. It's your security at stake: be prepared or be scared.

John Sileo is a keynote speaker on the human element of cyber security. His clients included the Department of Defense, Pfizer, and Homeland Security. See his recent work on 60 Minutes, Anderson Cooper and Fox Business.

Posted by Identity Theft Speaker John Sileo in Cyber Data Security and tagged "prevention of identity theft", Cyber Security, identity theft prevention plan.