Got an iPod? Now you’re getting Safari too.

Apple is joining the ranks of malware installers everywhere by installing software on your computer whether you want it or not. In this case, it’s their Safari web browser.

The installer is piggy-backing along with an iTunes/ Quicktime update. It shows up in the list of available updates even if you don’t have it installed already. If you let the Apple Software Update run without looking at what’s going on… BAM! You have new software on your computer. If you de-select the Safari instal, it comes back after you install your iTunes update.

I haven’t yet found a way to disable the installer other than just not running the Apple Software Updater. There are reports on Slashdot that you can kill the installer by hitting ‘Cancel’ at some point during the Safari installation. Me? I’m not trying it. I just won’t let it run in the first place.

Apple should know better.