Any risk from Java if you use a Mac?

jlister

Is there a risk to Mac users from Java 7, or does it only apply to Windows PCs?

Tags: apple, Java 7, mac
Topic: Security
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Answers

3 total
jimlynch
Vote Up (6)

Here's how you can disable Java in Safari.

How to disable the Java web plug-in in Safari
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5241?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US

"To disable the Java web plug-in in Safari, follow these steps:

In Safari, choose Safari > Preferences or press Command-comma (⌘-,)
Click "Security".
Uncheck (deselect) "Enable Java".
Close the Safari preferences window."

kreiley
Vote Up (8)

While the most recently discovered flaws an Java 7 may have been patched, there is still a general warning against using Java by the DHS. And yes, those patched vulnerabilities could be used against Mac systems as well as Windows. Remember the Flashback worm? Well, over 600,000 Mac users who bought into the "Macs don't get viruses" meme learned that they had been living in a fools paradise when their machines were infected. It is also worth mentioning that Apple hasn't provided Java for OS X since 6. Frankly, there is no compelling reason to continue using Java, and just because the most current round (of many) vulnerabilities has been patched, doesn't mean that they all have been. 

Christopher Nerney
Vote Up (5)

As long as there's a flaw to be exploited, I'd say yes. But Oracle reportedly has released an update that fixes the exploit about which the U.S. Department of Homeland Security had issued a warning.

 

 

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