If you’re a long-time Mac user, you might make the mistake of thinking that your computer is immune to the viruses, malware, and Trojans that plague Windows users. You might even feel a little smug about this. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case.
It’s true that viruses that specifically target Macs haven’t yet been found in the wild. However, that doesn’t make our computers immune from any external threats. If you want to keep your Mac safe, here are some tips to keep in mind. Are Macs immune to viruses? Macs aren’t immune to viruses, but they also aren’t typically targeted by attackers. The platform simply doesn’t have a large enough user base to make it worth the time for attackers to custom-build specific attack packages for the operation system’s unique features. The Unix-based macOS operating system is fundamentally different from Windows in a number of ways, meaning that any attacker hoping to infect Macs would need to create custom code tailored specifically to the operating system.
But that doesn’t make Macs immune. It just means that Mac users haven’t grown large enough to be targeted yet. Things may not stay this way, and present circumstances are no guarantee of future safety. A virus is a program that specifically interferes with the system’s processes., normally with the intent of providing and attacker either access or information. Many viruses exist “in the wild,” which means outside of security laboratories. We haven’t yet found Mac viruses in the wild, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist or won’t ever exist. And this safety in small numbers definitely doesn’t protect Mac users from more common attacks, scams or malware.
What is the best, free anti-virus software for Mac in 2017? Do you need an antivirus software for Mac OS? First, Mac users have a false sense of security about the safety of the platform. Second, most Mac users do not run any type of security software. Do I need antivirus software for my Mac? MacOS does include security features to protect you from malicious software. And you can set MacOS to block you from downloading software from anywhere but the Mac App Store or warn you if you are about to download software from an untrusted source.
Are Macs vulnerable to other attacks? Even though the macOS system hasn’t yet been targeted by viruses, it’s still vulnerable to other malware attacks, such as Trojans and botnet hijackings. A more common – and perhaps even more damaging – approach used by attackers is deceptive, malignant software. Take MACDefender, for example.
It’s a well-known Mac-based Trojan designed to automatically take control of the users operating system upon install by downloading a file through JavaScript. MACDefender is a program that users intentionally install, although they likely meant to install MacDefender, which is a different piece of legitimate software. The authors of the illegitimate software rely on users to ignore the difference. The macOS system does include some safeguards against this type of attack.
Since OS X Lion, macOS has included the file quarantine system. This system checks any download software for common malware packages, and prevents users from installing any software that macOS recognizes as malware. Of course, it’s only as good as its ability to detect malware, and there’s no guarantee it will catch everything, especially when it comes to new malware packages. And Mac users are also vulnerable to any attacks that don’t target the OS in particular. For example, Macs can still be compromised by browser-based attacks, man-in-the-middle attacks, fraudulent website redirects, phishing attempts, Adobe Flash and Java vulnerabilities, and more. The operating system might be too small of a target for virus authors, but that doesn’t mean it’s 100% safe.
Should I be freaking out? There’s nothing to actually worry about, but prudence recommends taking some steps to protect yourself from all eventualities.
First, find out who offers. The big names are all there, like McAfee, Norton, and TotalAV. McAfee is well respected, and Avira is a subtle package and blends in well with the Mac ecosystem.
However, it’s most important that you practice good online hygiene. Be suspicious of anything you encounter online, from software to information.
Most of the attacks that Macs are currently vulnerable to rely on the user to ignore or overlook warning signs. Phishing attacks, like the one that snared the DNC, rely on users to not follow up with the apparent source of a password-change email. Trojan attacks rely on users blithely installing software from dubious sources. And if you download pirated content or visit shady or illegal websites, you increase your vulnerability dramatically. Conclusion Macs are safer than Windows machines when it comes to infection by virus.
However, that doesn’t make them immune to other types of attacks. Always be wary of what you find online. If you download a lot of software, considering installing some antivirus software to help protect your system. You might also like.
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Www.jupiterimages.com/unlimited Apple has done a great job of convincing members of the computer-using public that they have nothing to worry about if they use a Mac, which is beginning to become a dangerous mind-set. There is no question that the number of exploits that specifically target Mac users is a fraction of what Windows users are exposed to, but that doesn't mean that there are no threats if you use a Mac. The first virus directed specifically at Apple computers dates back to 1982, with lots of other attempts to specifically attack Mac OS X that followed, especially in the past decade. The most dangerous malware targeting Macs are Trojans that hide in other programs, so be very careful what you download and always be suspicious when your computer asks you to type your Admin password out of the blue. Your operating system is just one attack vector for cybercriminals. Your web browser, Java, Adobe Flash and other popular utilities are also constantly under attack; they provide a path to your computer as well.
Your bank's suggestion to use Trusteer Rapport on your Mac is a great example of the changing landscape of malicious activity on the Internet. Rapport is primarily a browser-based security program that focuses on financial malware and phishing scams, which has little to do with which operating system you are using. Falling for a sophisticated socially engineered financial scam will impact you equally whether you are using Windows or Mac OS. Rapport is designed to sniff out fake websites, phishing scams and other fairly common attempts to trick you if you aren't paying attention.
Some users have complained of performance issues after installing Rapport and others have experienced compatibility issues with other security programs. We've seen lots of issues with Windows machines running Rapport in our shops, so it's kind of hit or miss based on your specific configuration. If you go to your bank's website only via a saved bookmark that you created or use the mobile app that your bank offers, I don't think installing Rapport is necessary. If you never click on a link in an e-mail message or open an attachment, you will substantially bypass the vast majority of the scams that are financially based. As to the question of whether you should install antivirus software on your Mac, there is no simple answer.
In general, current versions of OS X incorporate a malware scanner called XProtect that can sniff out the known malware that is circulating the Internet, but it isn't bulletproof. On one hand, installing antivirus software provides you with an extra layer of protection as Mac-specific exploits are discovered by security firms. On the other hand, you might notice a slight decrease in performance as the security software will have to jump into action to check things as you go about your business. The biggest risk you face is with your browser, so make sure you keep it updated. Apple's Safari browser recently had an update that patched 27 security issues, so don't ignore those update notices that you get on your screen! I prefer to use Google Chrome instead of Safari on Macs because it has unique security features built in, and it tends to be faster.
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Chrome also has a huge library of free add-ons that can further improve your security when surfing. Ken Colburn is founder/CEO of Data Doctors. Send him questions at [email protected], or contact him on Twitter @TheDataDoc.
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