Tech Shout!

Apple has issued a security update which fixes a security hole in its Airport line of Wi-Fi products. The update fixes a Wi-Fi based flaw that affects both the server and client versions of Mac OS X. The problem was announced in November as part of the Month of Kernel Bugs campaign kicked off by a few independent researchers for finding critical system bugs. The 6.5MB update is described by the company as “Recommended for all Intel-based Macs and provides compatibility with AirPort Extreme base stations and networks.”

In its advisory, Apple noted, “An attacker in local proximity may be able to trigger a system crash by sending a maliciously crafted frame to an affected system. The issue affects the Intel Core Duo-based versions of Mac mini, MacBook and MacBook Pro computers equipped with wireless networking. Other systems, including the Core 2 Duo versions of the same machines are not affected.”

The update is available for multiple operating languages and requires Mac OS X 10.4.8 and an Intel-based Mac.