Intego Releases iPad Malware Scanner

Mac security company Intego, which specializes in desktop Internet security and privacy software for Mac OS X, updated its flagship VirusBarrier to version X6 10.6.5, which among other security functions, can scan the iPad for malware and malicious files.

The latest iteration of VirusBarrier also comes with improved performance and reliability, Intego said. In addition to being iPad compatible, the antimalware update comes with a slew of bug corrections and performance enhancements. One of the feature improvements includes a new option to submit URLs flagged as Web threats or phishing sites to the Mac vendor, along with a contextual menu that allows users to add sites mislabeled as Web threats or phishing sites to the Trusted Sites list.

Among other things, the VirusBarrier update contains a new scan option that allows users to skip Boot Camp volumes during malware scans.

It also comes equipped with an "always require a password to access the interface" checkbox added to the advanced preferences, while a button in the behavioral analysis alert allows users to decide that they can trust application.

The VirusBarrier X6 10.6.5 is currently available as a free download via Intego's automatic update tool NetUpdate.

Intego's VirusBarrier X6 touts itself as the first antimalware program to scan iPhones and iPod touches for malware. However, its security features will likely translate to the iPad. While thus far there are no active malware exploits on the iPad, security experts have maintained that Apple's new device will likely be subject to the same host of media flaws and browser vulnerabilities as the iPhone, given that the devices share a similar OS.