Anti Virus Software Yes or No?

Hi Guys
I purchased a new 2012 imac earlier this year and Id just like your advice on those who have been mac users for a long time. I know theres alot of mixed opinions about the need for anti virus and internet seceirty software but Id like your advice. Do you think its necessary to have third party virus protection? I know that alot of people say that mac's arent really prone to virus and trjoens etc. But whats your opinion? Should I invest in something like Kaspersky Security for Mac?
Thanks in advance
Tamara

Not iMO...
Have a look at this Informative Discussion
https://discussions.apple.com/message/22247724
In General 3rd Party AV Software is Not Required as Mac OS X tends to look after itself.
To keep your Mac Happy...
Have a look here...
http://pondini.org/OSX/Scripts.html
More Info Here > The myth of the dirty Mac
http://www.thexlab.com/faqs/maintainingmacosx.htm

Similar Messages

Do i need to install and anti virus software on my macbook air? if yes, which one should i install?

Do i need to install and anti virus software on my macbook air? if yes, which one should i install?

Welcome to Apple Support Communities
OS X has got its own security systems, so you don't need any antivirus. Furthermore, they will only slow down your computer. If you want more information, read > http://www.thesafemac.com/mmg
If you want an antivirus, install ClamXav, but you don't need an antivirus

Should I protect my iMac with anti virus software and if yes what do you recommend thanks

should i prtect i mac with anti virus software?

If desired, use ClamXav. Any Mac OS X antivirus software which people actually charge for, as opposed to free downloads, should be avoided.
(70900)

Anti-virus software

hello,
i would like to know some of your opinions re: use of anti-virus software for mac. until now i never used any. i never had a problem with viruses & else. two weeks ago, i had a bad experience while using netscape browser: lost important data (all passwords, usernames, personal info; favorites; more).my laptop computer started to freeze frequently. maybe the problem is not virus related. but a few days ago, i read some article concerning the appearance of viruses made for mac. if any of you has a suggestion as far as the use or not of such software? if yes, which one would be best. i heard mcAfee is very decent...
my computer:
Machine Name: Mac Pro
Machine Model: MacPro1,1
Processor Name: Dual-Core Intel Xeon
Processor Speed: 2.66 GHz
Number Of Processors: 2
Total Number Of Cores: 4
L2 Cache (per processor): 4 MB
Memory: 2 GB
Bus Speed: 1.33 GHz
Boot ROM Version: MP11.005C.B01
in advance, i thank you
sandrine
powerbook G4 Mac OS X (10.4.8)

There have been attempts at mac virus's, however, there aren't any credible mac virus threats today.
You want to be sure the included OS X firewall is enabled, including it's stealth mode. Next, you may want to run an antivirus program, as a preventative and for peace of mind, and perhaps to stop spreading any virus's to your windows friends.
I use ClamXAV, which is available in universal version from http://www.clamxav.com . I have it scan my email (has warned me about phishing emails) as well as any downloads. There are other commercial antivirus packages made by Intego (Virusbarrier) and Symantec (Norton) for the mac environment. McAfee has all but bailed out of the individual system mac environment. Apple stopped using them on .mac, as there were significant Tiger issues early on.
The above assumes you're not running bootcamp and Windows. If you are, then you need to consider antivirus software for the Windows environment. In the Windows environment, there are many antivirus vendors, and you can probably catch some recent reviews from PC Magazine and others. McAfee does make a decent antivirus program for the Windows environment. I'd probably stay away from Norton, as I've read some comments that recent releases are perhaps getting too complex. If you watch Staples ads, they now and then have various Windows antivirus software for free after rebates. Best Buy recently had McAfees antivirus for Windows for $2 after rebates.

Is anti-virus software necessary on Mac?

Is anti-virus necessary on Mac? I am running Parallels Desktop and consistently receive offers to purchase Kaspersky Anti-Virus Software. I don't surf the net under the Windows 7 desktop, I've only been using Safari on the Mac side. Someone told me that the Windows 7 side of the Parallels desktop is suseptable to virus attacks if I'm not running some type of anti-virus software. Is this accurate? I've never had any problems on the Mac side of my Parallels desktop and in fact is one of the things I like the most about my Mac. When I had a PC, the resurces were constantly hijacked by scans and updates by Norton's and it took forever for my PC to boot.
Stephen

while norton is set to automatic upgrade, does it do so only when Windows is being used
Yes. It's not running except when Windows is active, so it can't update. It will check for updates as soon as Windows is booted up.
is norton working in the 'back-ground' against an anti-vius attack on Windows while I'm using OS X
No. It's a Windows app, it can't run in OS X. Norton for Mac can run in OS X, but I don't recommend using that. Furthermore, as Windows is not running when you're in OS X (unless you have a virtual machine running) it _can't_ be attacked by malware. It's not around to be be targeted.

Why No Anti Virus Software Required

I am new to Mac and wonder why I hear and read that anti-virus software is not usually required ? This seems to be completely the opposite advice I hear for PC users.
I use my iMac mainly for internet and e-mail, would readers advice I do actually install an anti-virus solution ?
Note - There is a bit of debate on the BBC News website on this subject at the moment.
Many thanks in advance.

Some things, like clicking on a link and opening an email may not be safe; visiting a web site; an unpatched vulnerability in Flash, Java, or other plug-ins, those still exist.
If you see a pop up that tells you to click on to scan, or alerts you that "your system....." it is malware. Ad servers can be infected. Google has had to try to clean their cache system.
But virus in the traditional meanings of malware/spyware and rootkits or that AV traditional looks for...
If you find that your email program doesn't filter junk or spot phishing exploits, you may, especially if you share files, or your ISP would hold you responsible for forwarding an email that while benign on OS X could affect the recipient's system.
You didn't mention that the BBC thought it was UN-necessary:
Eugene Kaspersky, co-founder and head of anti-virus research at Kaspersky, predicted a "significant rise" in Mac viruses back in April 2007. Has it happened? Not yet.... Symantec and McAfee both sell anti-virus software for Macs. So does anyone have any anti-virus software installed on their Macs? I don't on my machines. So am I smug and stupid or smug and wise?
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/technology/2008/03/macvirus_alarm_is_soundedaga.html
Now, do I own but not use AV? Yes. I want to have something in place, if it is needed. ClamXav, Intego both offer programs or suites. Safari is not my browser of choice by default, but it does log errors, and the iPhone might be the most likely portal for a worm or virus, someday.

Recommendations for anti-virus software OS X Mountatin lion

Just bought a mac and am looking for suggestions for anti-virus software.

Tony S. Wu wrote:
OS X does not come with any anti-virus
Yes it does:
Quarantine
GateKeeper
Mac OS X Snow Leopard and malware detection
OS X Lion- Protect your Mac from malware
OS X Mountain Lion- Protect your Mac from malware
OS X Mavericks- Protect your Mac from malware
There is also a Malware Removal Tool (MRT) that will run once with each OS X Security update that you install. It's designed to remove all commonly found OS X malware that might have previously been installed and not yet detected.
There is a feature in Safari (and several other browsers) that monitors your browsing habits and will alert you before visiting any site that Google's Safe Browsing system has recorded as dangerous. Make sure that option is enabled in Safari Preference->Security->Fraudulent sites:.

Muse upgrade blocked by anti-virus software

As I logged into Muse today, I was informed there was an upgrade, and did I wish to install. I said yes, but the upgrade process was halted at every attempt by my anti-virus software warning me that the downloaded file is infected with the 'HeurEngine.ZeroDayThreat' virus. Is anyone else experiencing this problem? Thank you for any help.

I have not seen any reports of this problem. I assume you have run a check on what you have sent out.
Look into whether the reports are coming from all users or just those who had the RH7 output or any characteristics if only some users are reporting this.
I can't think of anything else right now.
See www.grainge.org for RoboHelp and Authoring tips
@petergrainge

Anti Virus Software for Mini

I have noticed that security upgrades are available from time to time. Does this mean the Mini Mac is inherently protected from viruses and worms without having to install third party anti virus software?

0) Nothing is infallible, not even virus software installed on a client. We could debate endlessly in any direction here. It is a suggestion to use Hotmail the one you singled out, but also Yahoo or Gmail or another provider, are these also blocked for you?
This is for those times when you need to send a Microsoft Office Document and that is all the suggestion was for. Again I'm making suggestions, not religions or "thou must install this software" or "run your life this way" remarks. If you pull away up to the top level of looking at all remarks I make it is always:
o read for yourself
o make up your own mind
the people on the other side of the fence where I comment almost always have the high level theme of their posts
o install this software/do it this way, or you are a bad person
I argue freedom to make up your own mind and not feel guilty with your decision if you have done your diligent effort educating yourself on an issue. I see too much of the "religious-fervour" throughout my career in IT be it support staff which I think in a good number of cases really is "this is the only thing/way I know, don't put my job in jeopardy or me on the spot" or the end user who parrots back marketing copy. Its the only reason anymore I even post on these particular topics.
1) Good for you! =), like I have also stated before ClamAV is one of the least invasive of the OS X AV clients.
2) Only when an actual virus hits will it ever really be known.
3) Thank you! You are making my argument exactly. Its the IT staff and the Servers that need the AV software. It should remain completely optional on the client computers.
For layman. Its like your water distribution service. You have water treatment plants all down the line making sure your water is clean and clear of contaminants (yes even viruses =) and bacterium) so that the end user of water has a generally good level of protection (yes not perfect, we live in the real world where standard 80/20 rule applies.)
BSD Viruses-relevant?)
As far as I know, and I could be wrong, all the BSD Virus's have:
#1. Been a small list that came out around 2002 and never since
#2. Exploited a software bug the FreeBSDs current and specific implementation of the Apache Web Server at that time in order to gain entry into and start to try to infect the system.
#3. Never infected a BSD system through any other vector of infection with vague memory of maybe one doing a server rpc exploit.
#4. Apple doesn't use the same code such as the Apache Server version in question.
#5. Just about every desktop OS X box isn't running the server by default, nor will, as if it matters by #4
I used a lot of BSD systems as servers and they worked great in that role. And in that role I am all for installing and running AV software.
I have also worked for your above mentioned three-letter-anacronym agency, they were my customer along with other TLAs and defense contractors. We have used a lot more stringent procedures, remember Tempest systems? If you quickly want to see a computer become unusable fast, follow the guidelines to the letter. Most of the governments writers are researchers who know how to look up and compile information and recommendations without having the background in the field they are writing about to understand the implications fully. I like the recommended document because it is actually very well written and full of good basic skills and its finally good to see up front "Warning: It is not meant to replace well-structured policy or sound judgement."
As with everything trust nothing you hear and half of what you read. Don't take an article (even ones I offer) on face value without some research into the author presenting the material--something no one does these days, and you really only want to know what they have published, their education and work experience and who has been funding them. May sound strange I know, but I've worked to long for govt

Mac doesn't need anti-virus software !!

Is that true??
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wUmz8Vy9aM
this guy say YES!
and I agree with him !!
what do you think??

The question needs a better context. See:
Do You Need Anti-Virus Protection for Your Mac?
According to Rich Mogull's article, Should Mac Users Run Antivirus Software?,
"The reality is that today the Mac platform is relatively safe. There are hundreds of thousands of viruses and other malicious software programs floating around for Windows, but less than 200 are known to target the Mac, and many of those are aimed at versions of the Mac OS prior to Mac OS X (and thus have no effect on a modern Mac).
It's not that Mac OS X is inherently more secure against viruses than current versions of Windows (although it was clearly more secure than Windows prior to XP SP2); the numerous vulnerabilities reported and patched in recent years are just as exploitable as their Windows equivalents. But most security experts agree that malicious software these days is driven by financial incentives, and it's far more profitable to target the most dominant platform."
Mr. Mogull is a computer security expert. I recommend reading the entire article as it is quite informative.
For additional information on viruses, trojans, and spyware visit The XLab FAQs and read the FAQs on viruses and spyware.
Read the FAQ from the XLabs. There are reasons for having anti-virus software on your computer in certain circumstances. If those circumstances don't apply to you, then you don't need anti-virus software +at this time+.

I Opened A Strange Attachment, Do I need To Install Anti Virus Software?

I have Yahoo Mail and recently received some emails from myself with strange attachments. Similar emails were sent to random contacts in my Yahoo contact list. I did not send these emails. When I changed my email password, these emails stopped. However, I'm worried my iMac G5 (OS 10.6.4) has a virus because I opened one of the attachments. Also, could a worm virus on my IMac have caused these emails? Yahoo advised me to run anti-virus software. Do I need to run anti-virus software and if so, which one? I've been reading online that anti virus software can cause more harm than good and make your mac "buggy," whatever that means.

P NewYork wrote:
I've been reading online that anti virus software can cause more harm than good and make your mac "buggy," whatever that means.
Yes, you read right! There are no known viruses that attack OS X and other exploits are very rare.
It sounds like your email address is being spoofed.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spoofing_attack
This means that infected PC is going through its contact list and sending spoofed as that address.
There's nothing you can do but alert your PC friends.
EDIT: Are these emails actually being sent by your Mac? Check in Sent mail folder?
If you feel you MUST run AV software to prove you have nothing , do a scan with ClamXav a mac friendly freeware app.
-mj
Message was edited by: macjack

Cisco Jabber for Windows - Anti-Virus Software

Hello,
Cisco Jabber for Windows could not resolve outlook contacts, when a client has installed McAffee Anti-Virus Software.
Is there any documentation available, how to setup a Anti-Virus Software, to get Cisco Jabber for Windows running?
Cisco Jabber for Windows Version 9.2.4 Build 4528
Outlook 2013
Thanks
Alex

this is all what we mention about antivirus; http://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/jabber/Windows/9_2/JABW_BK_J6915A59_00_jabber-windows-server-setup/JABW_BK_J6915A59_00_jabber-windows-server-setup_chapter_00.html
Some antivirus or firewall applications, such as Symantec EndPoint Protection, block inbound CDP packets, which disables desk phone video capabilities. You should configure your antivirus or firewall application to allow inbound CDP packets. See the following Symantec technical document for additional details about this issue: Cisco IP Phone version 7970 and Cisco Unified Video Advantage is Blocked by Network Threat Protection.
with that being said; we probably would like to get the jabber process excluded from the antivirus list so that it allows for inbound MAPI communication as that is what is used for quering for the outlook contact.
The only process that ever runs from Jabber for windows is "CiscoJabber.exe" which is located in the following path:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Cisco Systems\Cisco Jabber
i hope this helps.

I have what appears to be a virus on my Mac namely MAL/FAK AV-OQ how can I remove it? I have only discovered after running SOPHOS anti virus software???

I have what appears to be a virus on my mac namely MAL/FAK AV-OQ I only discovered it after installing SOPHOS anti virus software.
I cannot remove it automatically with this software it says it has to be done manually.
Where do I start???
Help req'd urgently

That is Windows malware, and cannot affect your Mac. See:
http://www.sophos.com/en-us/threat-center/threat-analyses/viruses-and-spyware/Ma l~FakeAV-OQ.aspx
It may be attached to an e-mail message or could be something that was copied over from a Windows machine via flash drive or something similar. If it is attached to an e-mail message, simply delete the e-mail. (Do not let Sophos, or any other anti-virus software, quarantine the message or attachment! That can corrupt the mailbox that the message resides in.) If it isn't an e-mail message, you can let Sophos quarantine and delete the file or you can delete it yourself.

Anti-virus software on Windows XP pro sp3 with Virtual PC

Hi,
I'm running Virtual PC 7.0.3 with Windows XP pro Sp3 on eMac. Has anyone found the need to run a anti-virus software etc as part of the Windows system? Or will the firewall on the broadband router modem be sufficient protection?
Many thanks.

Thanks for the reply.
Any recommendations on AV software?
I tried installing a free version of AVG AV but the install would not complete, I ended the process after 1.5 hours.

Once and for all: Do I need anti-virus software for my Mac?

I've always heard that you don't really need anti-virus or anti-spyware software for Macs - but I do wonder that there has to be viruses about that would affect Macs?
I do alot of creative and professional work on my Mac. The data on it, means a **** of a lot to me, and I'd hate for my Mac to be infected with something horrible.
Could anybody please tell me if I really do need anti-virus or anti-spyware software for my iMac? And if I do, which one do you recommend? (Ideally I would want it to be cheap and not hog lots of system resources)...
Thank you!

Hi
I can only give you my personal experience on this one.
The short answer is "no". I've been using macs for the past 4 years, my partner for many more. Neither I nor she have an anti virus program installed.
We both use firewall on both the os x setup and via our router. I tend to install the security updates posted by apple after they are released and check the forums to be aware of any potential problems.
A much better idea is to back up your important projects etc on a regular basis to dvd and external hard disk.
I have one experience of anti-virus software on the mac:
About 2.5 years ago i thought i had a virus - my diskspace was being eaten up at a very very fast rate - and i was worried. Found out that the os update from 10.3.2 to 10.3.5 had an incompatability issue with the mcafee shock game controller driver (obscure eh!)
Anyway, after this experience and deleting the driver which i no longer needed, i decided to err on the side of caution and tried out both mcafee and norton. Both of which slowed down my system and norton especially caused problems when i was running logic pro etc. really really annoying.
Once i'd got over my "insecure" stage and having spoken to other mac users i realised anti-virus software was causing many many more issues than resolving any - and besides since then i have still had no problems and have never come across any viruses on mac os x.
It all depends on what makes you feel safer. Personally i wouldn't recommend ant-virus programs... i wonder if anyone has any positive experiences of anti-virus software on the mac?
that's my 0.02 pence

Anti Virus Software Yes or No?

Similar Messages

Maybe you are looking for