Apple Issues 8 Security Updates for Mac OS X, Safari

Apple has released 8 new security patches for its Mac OS X operating system, including one for Safari, Apple's Web browser.

The patches apply to Macs running any OS X versions that begin with v. 10.3, as well as Mac Servers of those version numbers. At least one of the fixes appears to plug a fairly dangerous security hole, and the browser flaw also looks like it could present a nice avenue for hackers hoping to target Mac users.

Many Mac users are proud that they don't have to worry as much as Microsoft Windows users about viruses, worms and other online threats. I hear from at least one gloating Mac user nearly every time I write a story about a new Windows virus. But that doesn't mean Apple fans should take security updates lightly.

You can download the OS X updates from the "Apple Downloads" page and install it yourself, or you can let Apple's software update service handle it for you. Apple recommends that users read some technical notes prior to installing the updates.

If you're using a Mac and/or the Safari browser and don't know diddly about applying patches, you might start with the instructions Apple posted online here.

Also, the Apple updates aren't limited to security fixes. They include a number of other tweaks that Apple says should make it easier to use the iTunes and and iSynch music applications, as well as file-sharing and CD-burning utilities, to name a few.