Anti Virus, spyware for Macbooks

Hi everyone, Im a new Mac user. Iam just confused about the Mac security, do Macs needs anti-virus, spyware software?? Someone said not necessary, others said Macs do get Virus so they need anti-virus software
any suggestion??

At this time there have been no confirmed Mac OS X viruses (subject to the semantic debate about whether the iChat exploit is properly classified as a virus or a trojan horse and not counting the Word macro virus that can affect Office v.X or non-updated copies of Office 2004), very few trojans and no adware or spyware. I therefore do not feel that antivirus or antispyware software is necessary at this time. It's never wise to become complacent, though, so security precautions are not wasted. Such security precautions mostly are common sense: don't download and run files from sites you don't know, don't double-click on attachments in emails you aren't expecting and/or from people you don't know, and make sure you password your system and keep that password secure as well as not having your system available and unattended (which also is a precaution against theft). In addition, it's possible for someone to inadvertently forward a Windows virus or worm to a PC user though you'd have to do it manually and said Windows malware cannot infect the Mac.
In addition, it's possible for someone to inadvertently forward a Windows virus to a PC user though you'd have to do it manually, and said Windows virus cannot infect the Mac.
If you do decide you wish to run antivirus software, I think that the donationware clamXav should be more than enough provided you remember to scan your system from time to time.
If you are running Windows on your system, either via BootCamp, Parallels Workstation or another solution, then that copy of Windows is subject to all the myriad exploits common to the Windows world, so you need to take full precautions, including running both antivirus and antispyware software.

Similar Messages

  • Free anti-virus ware for macbook?

    Can anybody recommend a good anti-virus program for my macbook air, i've surfed the net but theres so much conflicting advice and i'm no expert, help!

    micknmax wrote:
    thanks mate, just installed it!
    Where did you download it from (AppStore or Web) and did you follow these instructions?
    there seems to be an icon appearing next to the clamvax icon on my desktop, it says "warning", any idea what this is?
    What is the ClamXav icon doing on your desktop, or is that the .dmg file you downloaded from the Web? The application icon belongs in your Applications folder.
    If you have further problems / questions, I highly recommend you join other users on the ClamXav Forum and somebody will help you out.

  • Free anti virus software for macbook pro OS X 10.8.4

    What is the best free anti virus software for my MacBook Pro OS X 10.8.4? Only just been made aware that there is reputable AntiVirus available from BBC's CLICK ON-LINE

    circulair@ wrote:
    What is the best free anti virus software for my MacBook Pro OS X 10.8.4?
    In General 3rd Party AV Software is Not Required as Mac OS X tends to look after itself.
    Read Here  > https://discussions.apple.com/thread/4545776?tstart=0
    See Here  >  Antivirus Discussion
    https://discussions.apple.com/message/20969069
    The Safe Mac  >  http://www.thesafemac.com/mmg/
    Also have a look at this Informative Discussion
    https://discussions.apple.com/message/22247724

  • Anti-virus software for MacBook Pro?

    Okay...seriously this may be the most ridiculous question out there...but can't find a **** solution to it ...so let it be ridiculous...or dumb? I just purchased a MacBook Pro...been using PC's all my life...and am wondering how the **** Macs are keeping our system healthy w/o an anti-virus software installed? How does that even work? Or does it not...and I should be afraid? I just discovered that my MacBook Pro does not have an anti-virus software as a standard....so am I suppose to search for one? Or is Mac way to cool to even deal with such? LET ME KNOW! Please. Thanks.

    Norak,
    I understand your concerns as I switched from Windows 2000 to Mac OS X in July 2005.
    There are three (3) well knows anit-virus products for Mac OS X. (I am sure there are others, I just don't know about them.) They are:
    1. Norton Anti-Virus. $70. Don't know if it supports Intel-based Macs.
    2. Intego VirusBarrier. $70. Universal binary.
    3. ClamXAV. $zero. Don't know if it supports Intel-based Macs.
    Before buying/installing any AV software, you should surf to:
    MacUpdate
    and
    VersionTracker
    and read people's comments about them. All three have weaknesses and the commercial ones have caused problems in the past.
    I have ClamXAV installed on my Power Mac, but I don't know if it works as it has never detected a virus. However, on my Windows computer, GriSoft's AVG only detected one virus-infected file a year.
    ,dave
    P.S. You probably also have questions about firewalls and spyware. Here are some answers.
    1. Firewall. The built-in firewall in Mac OS X is pretty good and very easy to configure. Its weakness is that it does not protect against outgoing transmissions (as Zone Alarm on Windows does). Little Snitch is software that performs this function.
    2. Spyware. Seems to be a non-existent problem on Mac OS X. There some software packages out there to address the problem.

  • Recommendations for anti-virus, spyware for mac.

    Any suggestions for virus, spyware programs or is the OS strong enough to do without?

    OS X already includes everything it needs to protect itself from viruses and malware. Keep it that way with software updates from Apple.
    A much better question is "how should I protect my Mac":
    Never install any product that claims to "speed up", "clean up", "optimize", or "accelerate" your Mac. Without exception, they will do the opposite.
    Never install pirated or "cracked" software, software obtained from dubious websites, or other questionable sources. Illegally obtained software is almost certain to contain malware.
    Don’t supply your password in response to a popup window requesting it, unless you know what it is and the reason your credentials are required.
    Don’t open email attachments from email addresses that you do not recognize, or click links contained in an email:
    Most of these are scams that direct you to fraudulent sites that attempt to convince you to disclose personal information.
    Such "phishing" attempts are the 21st century equivalent of a social exploit that has existed since the dawn of civilization. Don’t fall for it.
    Apple will never ask you to reveal personal information in an email. If you receive an unexpected email from Apple saying your account will be closed unless you take immediate action, just ignore it. If your iTunes or App Store account becomes disabled for valid reasons, you will know when you try to buy something or log in to this support site, and are unable to.
    Don’t install browser extensions unless you understand their purpose. Go to the Safari menu > Preferences > Extensions. If you see any extensions that you do not recognize or understand, simply click the Uninstall button and they will be gone.
    Don’t install Java unless you are certain that you need it:
    Java, a non-Apple product, is a potential vector for malware. If you are required to use Java, be mindful of that possibility.
    Disable Java in Safari > Preferences > Security.
    Despite its name JavaScript is unrelated to Java. No malware can infect your Mac through JavaScript. It’s OK to leave it enabled.
    Block browser popups: Safari menu > Preferences > Security > and check "Block popup windows":
    Popup windows are useful and required for some websites, but popups have devolved to become a common means to deliver targeted advertising that you probably do not want.
    Popups themselves cannot infect your Mac, but many contain resource-hungry code that will slow down Internet browsing.
    If you ever see a popup indicating it detected registry errors, that your Mac is infected with some ick, or that you won some prize, it is 100% fraudulent. Ignore it.
    Ignore hyperventilating popular media outlets that thrive by promoting fear and discord with entertainment products arrogantly presented as "news". Learn what real threats actually exist and how to arm yourself against them:
    The most serious threat to your data security is phishing. To date, most of these attempts have been pathetic and are easily recognized, but that is likely to change in the future as criminals become more clever.
    OS X viruses do not exist, but intentionally malicious or poorly written code, created by either nefarious or inept individuals, is nothing new.
    Never install something without first knowing what it is, what it does, how it works, and how to get rid of it when you don’t want it any more.
    If you elect to use "anti-virus" software, familiarize yourself with its limitations and potential to cause adverse effects, and apply the principle immediately preceding this one.
    Most such utilities will only slow down and destabilize your Mac while they look for viruses that do not exist, conveying no benefit whatsoever - other than to make you "feel good" about security, when you should actually be exercising sound judgment, derived from accurate knowledge, based on verifiable facts.
    Do install updates from Apple as they become available. No one knows more about Macs and how to protect them than the company that builds them.
    Summary: Use common sense and caution when you use your Mac, just like you would in any social context. There is no product, utility, or magic talisman that can protect you from all the evils of mankind.

  • Anti-virus software for MacBook

    Hi, I came across plug in for enhancing the efficiency of MacBook and protecting it against viruses. My question is: Does MacBook require anti-virus software such as MacKeeper? Or is this software a malware?
    Thanks, Chaitanya Mehta

    ... Does MacBook require anti-virus software such as MacKeeper? Or is this software a malware?
    I consider MacKeeper "malware" and so do many others. OS X already contains all that is necessary to protect itself from viruses. The best thing you can do is ensure your OS is updated using Software Update.
    Never install anything without knowing exactly what it is, what it does, and how to eradicate it should it do something you do not want. Never supply your user name and password to something just because a popup window requests it.
    You should also consider using OpenDNS which has recently been improved to prevent certain malware from spreading. It's free and has many other useful features.

  • What is the best anti virus/spyware for mac i watched abit to much **** :(

    is MacKeeper any good?

    ClamXAV is free and as good as any commercial product - MacUpdate or CNET Downloads.

  • Is an anti-virus needed for a new macbook pro?

    Is an anti-virus needed for a new macbook pro with retina display?

    1. This comment applies to malicious software ("malware") that's installed unwittingly by the victim of a network attack. It does not apply to software, such as keystroke loggers, that may be installed deliberately by an intruder who has hands-on access to the victim's computer. That threat is in a different category, and there's no easy way to defend against it. If you have reason to suspect that you're the target of such an attack, you need expert help.
    If you find this comment too long or too technical, read only sections 5, 6, and 10.
    OS X now implements three layers of built-in protection specifically against malware, not counting runtime protections such as execute disable, sandboxing, system library randomization, and address space layout randomization that may also guard against other kinds of exploits.
    2. All versions of OS X since 10.6.7 have been able to detect known Mac malware in downloaded files, and to block insecure web plugins. This feature is transparent to the user, but internally Apple calls it "XProtect." The malware recognition database is automatically checked for updates once a day; however, you shouldn't rely on it, because the attackers are always at least a day ahead of the defenders.
    The following caveats apply to XProtect:
    It can be bypassed by some third-party networking software, such as BitTorrent clients and Java applets.
    It only applies to software downloaded from the network. Software installed from a CD or other media is not checked.
    3. Starting with OS X 10.7.5, there has been a second layer of built-in malware protection, designated "Gatekeeper" by Apple. By default, applications and Installer packages downloaded from the network will only run if they're digitally signed by a developer with a certificate issued by Apple. Software certified in this way hasn't necessarily been tested by Apple, but you can be reasonably sure that it hasn't been modified by anyone other than the developer. His identity is known to Apple, so he could be held legally responsible if he distributed malware. That may not mean much if the developer lives in a country with a weak legal system (see below.)
    Gatekeeper doesn't depend on a database of known malware. It has, however, the same limitations as XProtect, and in addition the following:
    It can easily be disabled or overridden by the user.
    A malware attacker could get control of a code-signing certificate under false pretenses, or could simply ignore the consequences of distributing codesigned malware.
    An App Store developer could find a way to bypass Apple's oversight, or the oversight could fail due to human error.
    For the reasons given above, App Store products, and other applications recognized by Gatekeeper as signed, are safer than others, but they can't be considered absolutely safe. "Sandboxed" applications may prompt for access to private data, such as your contacts, or for access to the network. Think before granting that access. OS X security is based on user input. Never click through any request for authorization without thinking.
    4. Starting with OS X 10.8.3, a third layer of protection has been added: a "Malware Removal Tool" (MRT). MRT runs automatically in the background when you update the OS. It checks for, and removes, malware that may have evaded the other protections via a Java exploit (see below.) MRT also runs when you install or update the Apple-supplied Java runtime (but not the Oracle runtime.) Like XProtect, MRT is presumably effective against known attacks, but maybe not against unknown attacks. It notifies you if it finds malware, but otherwise there's no user interface to MRT.
    5. XProtect, Gatekeeper, and MRT reduce the risk of malware attack, but they're not absolute protection. The first and best line of defense is always your own intelligence. With the possible exception of Java exploits, all known malware circulating on the Internet that affects a fully-updated installation of OS X 10.6 or later takes the form of so-called "trojan horses," which can only have an effect if the victim is duped into running them. The threat therefore amounts to a battle of wits between you and the malware attacker. If you're smarter than he thinks you are, you'll win.
    That means, in practice, that you never use software that comes from an untrustworthy source, or that does something inherently untrustworthy. How do you know what is trustworthy?
    Any website that prompts you to install a “codec,” “plug-in,” "player," "extractor," or “certificate” that comes from that same site, or an unknown one, is untrustworthy.
    A web operator who tells you that you have a “virus,” or that anything else is wrong with your computer, or that you have won a prize in a contest you never entered, is trying to commit a crime with you as the victim. (Some reputable websites did legitimately warn visitors who were infected with the "DNSChanger" malware. That exception to this rule no longer applies.)
    Pirated copies or "cracks" of commercial software, no matter where they come from, are unsafe.
    Software of any kind downloaded from a BitTorrent or from a Usenet binary newsgroup is unsafe.
    Software that purports to help you do something that's illegal or that infringes copyright, such as saving streamed audio or video for reuse without permission, is unsafe. All YouTube "downloaders" are in this category, though not all are necessarily harmful.
    Software with a corporate brand, such as Adobe Flash Player, must be downloaded directly from the developer’s website. If it comes from any other source, it's unsafe.
    Even signed applications, no matter what the source, should not be trusted if they do something unexpected, such as asking for permission to access your contacts, your location, or the Internet for no obvious reason.
    6. Java on the Web (not to be confused with JavaScript, to which it's not related, despite the similarity of the names) is a weak point in the security of any system. Java is, among other things, a platform for running complex applications in a web page, on the client. That was always a bad idea, and Java's developers have proven themselves incapable of implementing it without also creating a portal for malware to enter. Past Java exploits are the closest thing there has ever been to a Windows-style virus affecting OS X. Merely loading a page with malicious Java content could be harmful.
    Fortunately, client-side Java on the Web is obsolete and mostly extinct. Only a few outmoded sites still use it. Try to hasten the process of extinction by avoiding those sites, if you have a choice. Forget about playing games or other non-essential uses of Java.
    Java is not included in OS X 10.7 and later. Discrete Java installers are distributed by Apple and by Oracle (the developer of Java.) Don't use either one unless you need it. Most people don't. If Java is installed, disable it — not JavaScript — in your browsers.
    Regardless of version, experience has shown that Java on the Web can't be trusted. If you must use a Java applet for a task on a specific site, enable Java only for that site in Safari. Never enable Java for a public website that carries third-party advertising. Use it only on well-known, login-protected, secure websites without ads. In Safari 6 or later, you'll see a lock icon in the address bar with the abbreviation "https" when visiting a secure site.
    Follow the above guidelines, and you’ll be as safe from malware as you can practically be. The rest of this comment concerns what you should not do to protect yourself from malware.
    7. Never install any commercial "anti-virus" or "Internet security" products for the Mac, as they all do more harm than good, if they do any good at all. Any database of known threats is always going to be out of date. Most of the danger is from unknown threats. If you need to be able to detect Windows malware in your files, use one of the free anti-virus products in the Mac App Store — nothing else.
    Why shouldn't you use commercial "anti-virus" products?
    Their design is predicated on the nonexistent threat that malware may be injected at any time, anywhere in the file system. Malware is downloaded from the network; it doesn't materialize from nowhere.
    In order to meet that nonexistent threat, the software modifies or duplicates low-level functions of the operating system, which is a waste of resources and a common cause of instability, bugs, and poor performance.
    By modifying the operating system, the software itself may create weaknesses that could be exploited by malware attackers.
    8. An anti-malware product from the App Store, such as "ClamXav," doesn't have these drawbacks. That doesn't mean it's entirely safe. It may report email messages that have "phishing" links in the body, or Windows malware in attachments, as infected files, and offer to delete or move them. Doing so will corrupt the Mail database. The messages should be deleted from within the Mail application.
    An anti-virus app is not needed, and should not be relied upon, for protection against OS X malware. It's useful only for detecting Windows malware. Windows malware can't harm you directly (unless, of course, you use Windows.) Just don't pass it on to anyone else.
    A Windows malware attachment in email is usually easy to recognize. The file name will often be targeted at people who aren't very bright; for example:
    ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥!!!!!!!H0TBABEZ4U!!!!!!!.AVI♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥.exe
    Anti-virus software may be able to tell you which particular virus or trojan it is, but do you care? In practice, there's seldom a reason to use the software unless a network administrator requires you to do it.
    The ClamXav developer won't try to "upsell" you to a paid version of the product. Other developers may do that. Don't be upsold. For one thing, you should not pay to protect Windows users from the consequences of their choice of computing platform. For another, a paid upgrade from a free app will probably have the disadvantages mentioned in section 7.
    9. It seems to be a common belief that the built-in Application Firewall acts as a barrier to infection, or prevents malware from functioning. It does neither. It blocks inbound connections to certain network services you're running, such as file sharing. It's disabled by default and you should leave it that way if you're behind a router on a private home or office network. Activate it only when you're on an untrusted network, for instance a public Wi-Fi hotspot, where you don't want to provide services. Disable any services you don't use in the Sharing preference pane. All are disabled by default.
    10. As a Mac user you don't have to live in fear that your computer is going to be infected every time you install an application, read email, or visit a web page. But neither should you have the false idea that you will always be safe, no matter what you do. The greatest harm done by security software is precisely its selling point: it makes people feel safe. They may then feel safe enough to take risks from which the software doesn't protect them. Nothing can lessen the need for safe computing practices.

  • What is the best anti virus software for a MacBook air?

    Hi,just joined the community  .just wanting to know what anti virus software for a macbook air running os x mavericks 10.9?I keep getting pop ups on safari.
    Any help much appreciated!

    There is no need to download anything to solve this problem. You may have installed a variant of the "VSearch" ad-injection malware.
    Triple-click the line below on this page to select it, then copy the text to the Clipboard by pressing the key combination  command-C:
    /Library/LaunchDaemons
    In the Finder, select
              Go ▹ Go to Folder...
    from the menu bar and paste into the box that opens by pressing command-V. You won't see what you pasted because a line break is included. Press return.
    A folder named "LaunchDaemons" may open. Look inside it for a file with a name of the form
              com.something.daemon.plist
    Here something is a variable word, which can be different in each case. It could be "cloud," "dot," "highway," "submarine," "trusteddownloads," or pretty much anything else.
    There may also be a file named
               com.something.helper.plist
    in the same folder.
    Leave the LaunchDaemons folder open, and open the following folder in the same way:
    /Library/LaunchAgents
    In this folder, there may be a file named
              com.something.agent.plist
    where the word something is exactly the same as before.
    If you feel confident that you've identified these three files, back up all data, then drag the three files you found to the Trash. You may be prompted for your administrator login password. Close the windows and restart the computer.
    Don't delete the "LaunchAgents" or "LaunchDaemons" folder or anything else inside either one.
    The malware is now permanently inactivated, as long as you never reinstall it. You can stop here if you like, or you can remove two remaining components for the sake of completeness.
    Open this folder:
    /Library/Application Support
    If it has a subfolder named just
               something
    (where something is the same word as before), drag that subfolder to the Trash and close the window.
    Don't delete the "Application Support" folder or anything else inside it.
    Finally, in this folder:
    /System/Library/Frameworks
    there may an item named exactly
                v.framework
    It's actually another folder, though it has a different icon. Drag it to the Trash and close the window.
    Don't delete the "Frameworks" folder or anything else inside it.
    If you didn't find the files or you're not sure about the identification, post what you found.
    If in doubt, or if you have no backups, change nothing at all.
    The trouble may have started when you downloaded and ran an application called "MPlayerX." That's the name of a legitimate free movie player, but the name is also used fraudulently to distribute VSearch. If there is an item with that name in the Applications folder, delete it, and if you wish, replace it with the genuine article from mplayerx.org.
    This trojan is often found on illegal websites that traffic in pirated content such as movies. If you, or anyone else who uses the computer, visit such sites and follow prompts to install software, you can expect more of the same, and worse, to follow. Never install any software that you downloaded from a bittorrent, or that was downloaded by someone else from an unknown source.
    In the Security & Privacy pane of System Preferences, select the General tab. The radio button marked Anywhere  should not be selected. If it is, click the lock icon to unlock the settings, then select one of the other buttons. After that, don't ignore a warning that you are about to run or install an application from an unknown developer.
    Then, still in System Preferences, open the App Store or Software Update pane and check the box marked
              Install system data files and security updates (OS X 10.10 or later)
    or
              Download updates automatically (OS X 10.9 or earlier)
    if it's not already checked.

  • Free Anti-Virus/Spyware Program?

    Are there any good, free anti-virus/spyware programs out there to protect my Mac? Ones that remove Mac viruses/spyware as well as Windows ones too? I know there aren't nearly as many threats out there for a Mac compared to Windows, but they are still out there so I want to be safe and know my Mac is secure.
    I'm an ex-PC user of many years so I am used to having some comfort knowing I have protection...
    Message was edited by: JerichoX

    there are some trojans and I think keyloggers exist too but they can't be installed without your active participation. meaning you have to download it, install it and enter your admin password. These things are sometimes disguised. there were a few posts recently by people who got a trojan while visiting adult websites the trojan was disguised as a codec that they were prompted to install to view certain content. However, currently that's pretty much the only way something like this can get into your Mac. If you use a standard account for normal computer operation and take minimal reasonable precautions about what you install on your system there is no need for extra protection.

  • Best anti virus/spyware software to date?

    Hello,
    What is the best anti virus/spyware software to date?
    Thanks,
    Jordan

    Jordan asks:
    What is the best anti virus ... software to date
    I sez:
    Don't date software. Date girls.
    But if you MUST date software and are concerned about catching cooties, may I suggest that Intego's new VirusBarrier 4X ?
    Intego VirusBarrier X4 is the simple, fast and non-intrusive antivirus security solution for Macintosh computers, by Intego, the leading publisher of personal security software for Macintosh. It offers thorough protection against viruses of all types, coming from infected files or applications, whether on CD-ROMs, DVDs or other removable media, or on files downloaded over the Internet or other types of networks.
    Intego VirusBarrier X4 protects your computer from viruses by constantly examining all the files that your computer opens and writes, as well as watching for suspicious activity that may be the sign of viruses acting on applications or other files. With Intego VirusBarrier X4 on your computer, you can rest assured that your Macintosh has the best protection available against viruses of all kinds.
    Intego VirusBarrier X4 is an application that works in the background and checks everything that your computer does, looking for viruses. It detects and eradicates all known viruses, including Word and Excel macro viruses, and even viruses targeting the Windows operating system. It knows the unique signatures of all known Macintosh viruses, and whenever a new virus is discovered, Intego's Virus Monitoring Center goes into action to provide updated virus definitions, which you can download using Intego VirusBarrier X4's automatic NetUpdate function.
    When you purchase a license for Intego VirusBarrier X4, you have access to virus definition updates for one year from the date of purchase. After this time, additional subscriptions, allowing you to extend your access to virus definition updates, are available from Intego, and can be purchased by using NetUpdate.
    Intego VirusBarrier X4 was designed according to specific concepts. The main idea is that an antivirus program should not require the user to do anything once it is installed and configured, unless a virus is detected. The Intego VirusBarrier X4 philosophy can be summed up in three words: simple, fast and non-intrusive.

  • Who can recommend a functional anti virus software for imac and macbaook

    Alarm! Great problems with Internet Banking!
    Access closed by bank because of "Trojaner" on my imac. Can't believe.
    Who can recommend a good anti virus software for imac, macbook and even ipad?
    Thanks for helping
    Eva

    ClamXav.
    You will find this User Tip on Viruses, Trojan Detection and Removal, as well as general Internet Security and Privacy, useful:
    https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-2435
    The User Tip (which you are welcome to print out and retain for future reference) seeks to offer guidance on the main security threats and how to avoid them.
    More useful information can also be found here:
    http://www.reedcorner.net/mmg/

  • Removed ALL of my anti-virus/spyware software and CANNOT CONNECT TO STORE

    ***?
    iTunes 9 will NOT allow me to connect to the store. I don't have any firewall issues and have removed all of my anti-virus/spyware software. HELP!

    This worked for me.
    ++molly15 wrote:++
    ++I was having the same problem. Finally figured it out! You have to uncheck "use proxy server" under control panel -> internet options -> connections -> LAN settings. Works just fine now.+

  • Anti-virus, spyware, adware

    Hi,
    I have not been using any 3rd party security software, but am now required to make sure that I have anti-virus, spyware, and adware protection with respect to my interface with a Windows network at my office. Two questions, please:
    - Does my OS 10.5.6 already provide those security elements?
    - If not, what security software would you recommend?
    Thanks!

    If you are running Windows you need all the protection money can buy. But if you are running Mac OS X:
    No viruses that can attack OS X have so far been detected 'in the wild', i.e. in anything other than laboratory conditions.
    It is possible, however, to pass on a Windows virus to another Windows user, for example through an email attachment. To prevent this all you need is the free anti-virus utility ClamXav, which you can download from:
    http://www.clamxav.com/
    However, the appearance of Trojans and other malware that can possibly infect a Mac seems to be growing, but is a completely different issue to viruses.
    If you allow a Trojan to be installed, the user's DNS records can be modified, redirecting incoming internet traffic through the attacker's servers, where it can be hijacked and injected with malicious websites and pornographic advertisements. The trojan also installs a watchdog process that ensures the victim's (that's you!) DNS records stay modified on a minute-by-minute basis.
    SecureMac has introduced a free Trojan Detection Tool for Mac OS X. It's available here:
    http://macscan.securemac.com/
    The DNSChanger Removal Tool detects and removes spyware targeting Mac OS X and allows users to check to see if the trojan has been installed on their computer; if it has, the software helps to identify and remove the offending file. After a system reboot, the users' DNS records will be repaired.
    (Note that a 30 day trial version of MacScan can be downloaded free of charge from:
    http://macscan.securemac.com/buy/
    and this can perform a complete scan of your entire hard disk. After 30 days the cost is $29.99. The full version permits you to scan selected files and folders only, as well as the entire hard disk.)
    A white paper has recently been published on the subject of Trojans by SubRosaSoft, available here:
    http://www.macforensicslab.com/ProductsAndServices/index.php?mainpage=document_general_info&cPath=11&productsid=174
    Also, beware of MacSweeper:
    MacSweeper is malware that misleads users by exaggerating reports about spyware, adware or viruses on their computer. It is the first known "rogue" application for the Mac OS X operating system. The software was discovered by F-Secure, a Finland based computer security software company on January 17, 2008
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MacSweeper
    On June 23, 2008 this news reached Mac users:
    http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/06/23/mac_trojan/
    More information on Mac security can be found here:
    http://macscan.securemac.com/
    The MacScan application can be downloaded from here:
    http://macscan.securemac.com/buy/
    You can download a 30 day trail copy which enables you to do a full scan of your hard disk. After that it costs $29.95.
    More on Trojans on the Mac here:
    http://www.technewsworld.com/story/63574.html?welcome=1214487119
    The latest news on the subject, from July 25, 2008, is:
    Attack code that exploits flaws in the net's addressing system are starting to circulate online, say security experts.
    The code could be a boon to phishing gangs who redirect web users to fake bank sites and steal login details.
    In light of the news net firms are being urged to apply a fix for the loop-hole before attacks by hi-tech criminals become widespread.
    Net security groups say there is anecdotal evidence that small scale attacks are already happening.
    Further details here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7525206.stm
    A further recent development is the Koobface malware that can be picked up from Facebook (already a notorious site for malware), as reported here on December 9, 2008:
    http://news.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/hi/technology/newsid_7773000/7773340.stm
    There may be other ways of guarding against Trojans, viruses and general malware affecting the Mac, and alternatives will probably appear in the future. In the meantime the advice is: be careful where you go on the web and what you download!

  • Shall i buy anti virus software for my MAC pro lion

    Do I need to install anti-virus software for my Mac pro?

    You do not need any anti-virus for a Mac.
    Do not download any software from the web to protect your Mac.
    Apple releases updates that will offer all the protection a Mac needs.
    Keep the software updated.
    Many in this community use ClamXav and recommend using it.
    Best.

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