"I avoid open source software at all costs since it is easily hacked to perform other functions than it is marketed to do. Open source is an open invitation for malware innovation and security compromise. Just imagine a hacked open SSL routine that exposes your internet security. What a scary thought."
No you're buying into a non-argument I think. Distro's use checksums on the code. The argument you put forward applies to any type of software - if you want to throw unchecked software at your machine you *may* have problems.
You may find this enlightening.
http://www.mercola.com/townofallopat...ofallopath.htm