Apple posts security update for OS X

Apple is getting increasing attention from hackers

Apple has released a security update for its OS X Macintosh operating system.

The company said that the update will address 13 vulnerabilities with components in both the user and server versions of OS X 10.5 and 10.6. Included in the update are fixes for flaws that, if targeted, could allow for remote code execution attacks.

Among the components addressed by the update are the CoreGraphics and PHP software, along with Apple Type Services and the ClamAV tools in OS X Server 10.5 and 10.6.

Users can obtain the update automatically through the OS X Software Update component or manually from Apple's security download site.

Security experts are advising all OS X users and administrators to install the update.

Dave Marcus, McAfee Labs director for research and communications, told V3.co.uk that the update is especially important in light of Apple's continued growth.

"Windows users have been used to monthly security updates, and now Apple users are going to start to embrace the same system," he said.

"As with the recent iPhone jail-break using a zero-day vulnerability, as more and more people begin using Apple technologies, more risks will be discovered that will affect the end-user."