Have You Upgraded Your Mac to Mavericks? You Must Install OS X 10.9.2 Immediately.

Mavericks Users Must Install OS X 10.9.2 to Prevent Data Interception

The OS X 10.9.2 update, which patches the SSL bug found in a piece of open source code and other issues, is now available for Mavericks users. Don’t wait on this critical update.  Install it immediately.  Your Mac should have prompted you already. The SSL bug could potentially allow hackers to intercept HTTPS traffic.

Essentially, the bug enables hackers to capture sensitive information, including usernames and passwords, during data transfers. While the bug impacts Safari and various applications, third-party browsers including Firefox and Chrome aren’t affected. Also, the SSL bug doesn’t affect versions prior to OS X 10.9 Mavericks.

What is SSL/TLS?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and Transport Layer Security are used to set up an encrypted channel between a computer and servers. When the encryption is established, a padlock icon will appear in your web browser. SSL/TLS is also used to secure a variety of other connections, including:

• Credit card transactions.
• Webmail applications, such as Outlook Web Access or Online Exchange (Office 365).
• Virtualization applications, such as Citrix Delivery Platforms.
• File transfers over HTTPS and FTP(s) services.
• Network logins and other network traffic with SSL VPNs.

What Does the Update Fix?

The update will fix the SSL bug and other issues, including a sound issue and a VPN issue. The update also brings some new features to Mavericks, such as:

• FaceTime: incoming and outgoing audio calls
• FaceTime: call waiting
• iMessages: block incoming messages
• Safari: improve AutoFill

To learn more about the SSL bug and how to install the update, give us a call or send us an email. As your trusted IT company, we can help you stay up to date on the latest security flaws and updates and make sure your business Apple computers and Macs continue to work as designed. 

Michael Goldstein

LAN Infotech is a Microsoft Cloud Services Provider, IT Managed Support company and a leader in helping law firms, nonprofits and medical organizations deploy cloud solutions, manage computer networks, keep data protected and top technology management company. Businesses like yours need technology support to run highly-effective organizations.