Antivirus software recommendations

anyone have any thoughts or recommendations on a good or great antivirus software? already done the Mcaffee, Norton, AVG, IOBit routine and recently installed Microsoft Security Essentials and had a major crash and burn as something new and undetected popped it's cherry and it's dead in the water. I've heard rumors about German technology but I'm looking for some good feedback as I just can't afford another crash and burn as this is the 2nd this year! thanks!

No AV is 100% at preventing events like you have had, MSE is really good, you must have had a really nasty infection
NOD 32

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Antivirus software recommendations for IMac ( OSX10.7.5) and ipad2

I know it has been discussed and re-discussed, but please update me on the latest recommendations as I was not able to upgrade a year ago to Mavericks (even with Apple Support on 2 occasions) and I am reluctant to upgrade to Yosemite due to the WIFI issues. Update tells me that my software on my Mac is up to date, but that is not the OSX.

Mac users often ask whether they should install "anti-virus" (AV) software. The usual answer is "no." That answer is right, but it may give the wrong impression that there is no threat from what are loosely called "viruses." There is a threat, and you need to educate yourself about it.
1. This is a comment on what you should—and should not—do to protect yourself from malicious software ("malware") that circulates on the Internet and gets onto a computer as an unintended consequence of the user's actions.
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 computer, or who has been able to take control of it remotely. That threat is in a different category, and there's no easy way to defend against it. AV software is not intended to, and does not, defend against such attacks.
The comment is long because the issue is complex. The key points are in 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. Internally Apple calls it "XProtect."
The malware recognition database used by XProtect is automatically updated; 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.
As new versions of OS X are released, it's not clear whether Apple will indefinitely continue to maintain the XProtect database of older versions such as 10.6. The security of obsolete system versions may eventually be degraded. Security updates to the code of obsolete systems will stop being released at some point, and that may leave them open to other kinds of attack besides malware.
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 been checked for security by Apple unless it comes from the App Store, 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.
Apple has taken far too long to revoke the codesigning certificates of some known abusers, thereby diluting the value of Gatekeeper and the Developer ID program. Those lapses don't involve App Store products, however.
For the reasons given, App Store products, and—to a lesser extent—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. Sandbox 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 effective against known threats, but not against unknown ones. It notifies you if it finds malware, but otherwise there's no user interface to MRT.
5. The built-in security features of OS X reduce the risk of malware attack, but they are not, and never will be, complete protection. Malware is a problem of human behavior, not machine behavior, and no technological fix alone is going to solve it. Trusting software to protect you will only make you more vulnerable.
The best defense is always going to be 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 Internet criminals. If you're better informed than they think you are, you'll win. That means, in practice, that you always stay within a safe harbor of computing practices. How do you know when you're leaving the safe harbor? Below are some warning signs of danger.
Software from an untrustworthy source
☞ Software with a corporate brand, such as Adobe Flash Player, doesn't come directly from the developer’s website. Do not trust an alert from any website to update Flash, or your browser, or any other software. A genuine alert that Flash is outdated and blocked is shown on this support page. Follow the instructions on the support page in that case. Otherwise, assume that the alert is fake and someone is trying to scam you into installing malware. If you see such alerts on more than one website, ask for instructions.
☞ Software of any kind is distributed via BitTorrent, or Usenet, or on a website that also distributes pirated music or movies.
☞ Rogue websites such as Softonic, Soft32, and CNET Download distribute free applications that have been packaged in a superfluous "installer."
☞ The software is advertised by means of spam or intrusive web ads. Any ad, on any site, that includes a direct link to a download should be ignored.
Software that is plainly illegal or does something illegal
☞ High-priced commercial software such as Photoshop is "cracked" or "free."
☞ An application helps you to infringe copyright, for instance by circumventing the copy protection on commercial software, or saving streamed media for reuse without permission. All "YouTube downloaders" are in this category, though not all are necessarily malicious.
Conditional or unsolicited offers from strangers
☞ A telephone caller or a web page tells you that you have a “virus” and offers to help you remove it. (Some reputable websites did legitimately warn visitors who were infected with the "DNSChanger" malware. That exception to this rule no longer applies.)
☞ A web site offers free content such as video or music, but to use it you must install a “codec,” “plug-in,” "player," "downloader," "extractor," or “certificate” that comes from that same site, or an unknown one.
☞ You win a prize in a contest you never entered.
☞ Someone on a message board such as this one is eager to help you, but only if you download an application of his choosing.
☞ A "FREE WI-FI !!!" network advertises itself in a public place such as an airport, but is not provided by the management.
☞ Anything online that you would expect to pay for is "free."
Unexpected events
☞ A file is downloaded automatically when you visit a web page, with no other action on your part. Delete any such file without opening it.
☞ You open what you think is a document and get an alert that it's "an application downloaded from the Internet." Click Cancel and delete the file. Even if you don't get the alert, you should still delete any file that isn't what you expected it to be.
☞ An application does something you don't expect, such as asking for permission to access your contacts, your location, or the Internet for no obvious reason.
☞ Software is attached to email that you didn't request, even if it comes (or seems to come) from someone you trust.
I don't say that leaving the safe harbor just once will necessarily result in disaster, but making a habit of it will weaken your defenses against malware attack. Any of the above scenarios should, at the very least, make you uncomfortable.
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 padlock icon in the address bar when visiting a secure site.
Stay within the safe harbor, 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.
7. Never install any commercial AV or "Internet security" products for the Mac, as they are all worse than useless. If you need to be able to detect Windows malware in your files, use one of the free security apps in the Mac App Store—nothing else.
Why shouldn't you use commercial AV products?
☞ To recognize malware, the software depends on a database of known threats, which is always at least a day out of date. This technique is a proven failure, as a major AV software vendor has admitted. Most attacks are "zero-day"—that is, previously unknown. Recognition-based AV does not defend against such attacks, and the enterprise IT industry is coming to the realization that traditional AV software is worthless.
☞ Its 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, commercial AV 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 may also create weaknesses that could be exploited by malware attackers.
☞ Most importantly, a false sense of security is dangerous.
8. An AV product from the App Store, such as "ClamXav," has the same drawback as the commercial suites of being always out of date, but it does not inject low-level code into the operating system. That doesn't mean it's entirely harmless. 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 AV app is not needed, and cannot be relied upon, for protection against OS X malware. It's useful, if at all, only for detecting Windows malware, and even for that use it's not really effective, because new Windows malware is emerging much faster than OS X malware.
Windows malware can't harm you directly (unless, of course, you use Windows.) Just don't pass it on to anyone else. A malicious attachment in email is usually easy to recognize by the name alone. An actual example:
London Terror Moovie.avi [124 spaces] Checked By Norton Antivirus.exe
You don't need software to tell you that's a Windows trojan. Software may be able to tell you which trojan it is, but who cares? In practice, there's no reason to use recognition software unless an organizational policy requires it. Windows malware is so widespread that you should assume it's in every email attachment until proven otherwise. Nevertheless, ClamXav or a similar product from the App Store may serve a purpose if it satisfies an ill-informed network administrator who says you must run some kind of AV application. It's free and it won't handicap the system.
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 all 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 may be infected every time you install software, read email, or visit a web page. But neither can you assume that you will always be safe from exploitation, no matter what you do. Navigating the Internet is like walking the streets of a big city. It can be as safe or as dangerous as you choose to make it. 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.

My macbook pro is slow and the colorwheel turns a lot. Is there an antivirus software out there recommended by the apple community?

my macbook pro is slow and the colorwheel turns a lot. Is there an antivirus software out there recommended by the apple community?

Problem description:
MacBook Pro is running slowly and shows me the color wheel all the time.
EtreCheck version: 2.1.8 (121)
Report generated March 26, 2015 at 2:07:06 PM CDT
Download EtreCheck from http://etresoft.com/etrecheck
Click the [Click for support] links for help with non-Apple products.
Click the [Click for details] links for more information about that line.
Hardware Information: ℹ️
    MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2011) (Technical Specifications)
    MacBook Pro - model: MacBookPro8,1
    1 2.4 GHz Intel Core i5 CPU: 2-core
    4 GB RAM Upgradeable
        BANK 0/DIMM0
            2 GB DDR3 1333 MHz ok
        BANK 1/DIMM0
            2 GB DDR3 1333 MHz ok
    Bluetooth: Old - Handoff/Airdrop2 not supported
    Wireless: en1: 802.11 a/b/g/n
    Battery Health: Normal - Cycle count 448
Video Information: ℹ️
    Intel HD Graphics 3000 - VRAM: 384 MB
        Color LCD 1280 x 800
System Software: ℹ️
    OS X 10.10.2 (14C1514) - Time since boot: one day 2:51:19
Disk Information: ℹ️
    ST9500325ASG disk0 : (500.11 GB)
        EFI (disk0s1) <not mounted> : 210 MB
        Recovery HD (disk0s3) <not mounted> [Recovery]: 650 MB
        Macintosh HD (disk1) / : 498.88 GB (362.93 GB free)
            Encrypted AES-XTS Unlocked Converting
            Core Storage: disk0s2 499.25 GB Online
    MATSHITADVD-R   UJ-8A8
USB Information: ℹ️
    Apple Computer, Inc. IR Receiver
    Apple Inc. Apple Internal Keyboard / Trackpad
    Apple Inc. BRCM2070 Hub
        Apple Inc. Bluetooth USB Host Controller
    Apple Inc. FaceTime HD Camera (Built-in)
Thunderbolt Information: ℹ️
    Apple Inc. thunderbolt_bus
Gatekeeper: ℹ️
    Mac App Store and identified developers
Launch Daemons: ℹ️
    [loaded]    com.adobe.fpsaud.plist [Click for support]
    [running]    com.zeobit.MacKeeper.plugin.AntiTheft.daemon.plist [Click for support]
User Launch Agents: ℹ️
    [loaded]    com.google.keystone.agent.plist [Click for support]
    [failed]    com.zeobit.MacKeeper.Helper.plist [Click for support]
User Login Items: ℹ️
    iTunesHelper    Application Hidden (/Applications/iTunes.app/Contents/MacOS/iTunesHelper.app)
Internet Plug-ins: ℹ️
    Silverlight: Version: 5.1.10411.0 - SDK 10.6 [Click for support]
    FlashPlayer-10.6: Version: 17.0.0.134 - SDK 10.6 [Click for support]
    Flash Player: Version: 17.0.0.134 - SDK 10.6 [Click for support]
    QuickTime Plugin: Version: 7.7.3
    JavaAppletPlugin: Version: 15.0.0 - SDK 10.10 Check version
    Default Browser: Version: 600 - SDK 10.10
3rd Party Preference Panes: ℹ️
    Flash Player [Click for support]
Time Machine: ℹ️
    Time Machine not configured!
Top Processes by CPU: ℹ️
        25%    WindowServer
         4%    hidd
         1%    Dock
         0%    systemstatsd
         0%    AppleIDAuthAgent
Top Processes by Memory: ℹ️
    86 MB    Finder
    77 MB    WindowServer
    73 MB    ocspd
    47 MB    mds_stores
    43 MB    CalendarAgent
Virtual Memory Information: ℹ️
    1.06 GB    Free RAM
    1.57 GB    Active RAM
    568 MB    Inactive RAM
    1.09 GB    Wired RAM
    1.46 GB    Page-ins
    0 B    Page-outs
Diagnostics Information: ℹ️
    Mar 25, 2015, 11:13:52 AM    Self test - passed
    Mar 24, 2015, 07:05:57 PM    /Library/Logs/DiagnosticReports/com.apple.WebKit.Plugin.64_2015-03-24-190557_[r edacted].cpu_resource.diag [Click for details]

What Antivirus software is recommended?

Was looking at where to post this message... so apologies if in wrong discussion.
I've done some reading up on virus protection on mac, and there are a few out there. Norton's gets a bad write-up. Is anyone using Sophos? It is a bit expensive for one user as far as I can tell.
What is your experience with Mac antivirus software. I'd like to know what you guys would recommend.
Thanks.

There's no need to run Anti-virus software on your mac unless you are concerned about passing infected files you get from a windows computer on to another windows computer (this can only happen if you manually move such files to another computer, which then in turn fails to detect the infected files).
The world still waits for the first genuine OS X virus. And until it appears, I'm not going to waste system resources on such programs. Just backup your important files regularly.
For heaven's sake, don't BUY into the FUD. If you must, use the free stuff that is available.

Printer suddenly not communicating with laptop and can't print, possibly due to antivirus software?

All of a sudden I can't print from my laptop, neither wireless or via USB. I keep getting an error message "printer not responding." I did the dx/repair and was able to print a test page, but that's it. Would like to know if it might be due to my antivirus software/firewall?
I use Windows 8 on an HP laptop. Security software is Norton. This has never happened before and I"ve been using this Norton subscription for at least 8 months, maybe longer.
Is there something I can do in the Norton settings to fix this?
Thanks.
Solved!
Go to Solution.

Hi ellenrozsa,
Uninstalling and reinstalling the PIXMA MG5420 should resolve this issue. To do this, please follow these steps:
1. Put the PIXMA MG5420's CDROM in the CDROM drive. If the welcome screen appears, exit it.
2. Place the cursor in the upper right hand corner of your screen to display the Charms Menu.
3. Click on Search.
4. Type RUN.
5. In the Search Results, click APPS and then click RUN in the results to the left.
6. Click Browse. In the Browse window, click on "Computer".
7. Double click the CANON_IJ CDROM.
8. Double click the folder named WIN.
9. Double click the folder named Driver.
10. Double click the folder named DrvSetup.
11. Double click the file named DelDrv. If you are using the 64 bit version of Windows 8, please double click DELDRV64.
12. In the Run box click OK.
13. Place the cursor in the upper right hand corner of your screen to display the Charms Menu.
14. Click on Search.
15. Type RUN.
16. In the Search Results, click APPS and then click RUN in the results to the left.
17. Click Browse. In the Browse window, click on "Computer".
18. Double click the CANON_IJ CDROM.
19. Double click the folder named WIN.
20. Double click the folder named Driver.
21. Double click the folder named LAN.
22. Double click the file named CNMNPU. In the Run box click OK. Follow the on-screen prompts.
Once the printer has been uninstalled, restart the computer.
To install the PIXMA MG5420 for use over your network wirelessly, please follow these steps:
1. Visit Canon's website at: http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/support/consumer
2. Type PIXMA MG5420 in the "Enter Your Model Name" box and click GO.
3. On the Support page for your unit, click the 'Drivers & Software' link in the middle of the page.
4. Under Recommended For You, please click on the MG5400 series Mini Master Setup.
5. If you agree, please select the checkbox next to "I have read and agree to the terms of the Disclaimer and wish to continue with the download".
6. Click the Download box.
7. A File Download box should appear at the bottom of the screen.
8. Click Save.
9. Once the download is complete, open your Downloads folder.
10. Double click [mast-win-mg5400-1_0-ucd.exe] to begin installation of the drivers.
Follow the prompts and installation will complete.
Did this answer your question? Please click the Accept as Solution button so that others may find the answer as well.

HT1349 Where can I find the antivirus software of my IMAC?

WHERE can I find the antivirus software of my IMAC?

There is none. It's already built-in to the OS. You do not need to install any third-party AV software.
Helpful Links Regarding Malware Protection
An excellent link to read is Tom Reed's Mac Malware Guide.
Also, visit The XLab FAQs and read Detecting and avoiding malware and spyware.
See these Apple articles:
          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
          About file quarantine in OS X
If you require anti-virus protection I recommend using ClamXav.

Where is my antivirus software on my new mac?

i just got my new macbook in the mail and i am setting it up now, but i have yet to find the an antivirus software. Does the macbook come with it or do i have to buy it separately?
i did purchase the extended apple care and the disks have not made it yet, does a antivirus come with that?
thanks

Most of the time, you won't have to worry about anti-virus software for your make. But I did want to let you in on a pretty well kept secret: there is a free diagnostic tool available for you that comes with the Apple Care Plan. Its not anti-virus, but because you seem concerned about your system (as you should be) I recommend you download this.
https://support.apple.com/techtooldeluxe/main?id=dl
Its free with your care plan, and may help you out sometime.

Which antivirus software should i use for my iMac

Hello,
Wondering which antivirus software is recommended by Apple for an iMac?
Thanks,
Lisa C.

VIRUSES
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 for Tiger from:
http://www.clamxav.com/download.php#tiger
and for Leopard, Snow Leopard and Lion from here:
http://www.clamxav.com/
Note: If you wish to uninstall ClamXav: keep a copy of the disk image from when you downloaded it, or download it again - the uninstaller is included with the application. To uninstall, quit ClamXav Sentry (if you use it) and make sure it's not set to launch at log in. The uninstaller will remove the engine and any schedules you've got set up, then just drag ClamXav.app to the trash.
If you are already using ClamXav: please ensure that you have installed all recent Apple Security Updates and that your version of ClamXav is the latest available.
Do not install Norton Anti-Virus on a Mac as it can seriously damage your operating system. Norton Anti-Virus is not compatible with Apple OS X.
FAKE ANTI-VIRUS SOFTWARE and associated MALWARE
Do not be tricked by 'scareware' that tempts computer users to download fake anti-virus software that may itself be malware.
Fake anti-virus software that infect PCs with malicious code are a growing threat, according to a study by Google. Its analysis of 240m web pages over 13 months showed that fake anti-virus programs accounted for 15% of all malicious software.
Scammers trick people into downloading programs by convincing them that their PC is infected with a virus.
Once installed, the software may steal data or force people to make a payment to register the fake product.
Beware of PDF files from unknown sources. A security firm announced that by its counting, malicious Reader documents made up 80% of all exploits at the end of 2009.:
http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9157438/in which Rogue_PDFs_account_for_80_of_all_exploits_says_researcher
TROJANS and RE-DIRECTION TO FAKE WEBSITES
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.
You can read more about how, for example, the OSX/DNSChanger Trojan works (by falsely suggesting extra codecs are required for Quicktime) here:
http://www.f-secure.com/v-descs/trojan_osx_dnschanger.shtml
SecureMac has introduced a free Trojan Detection Tool for Mac OS X. It's available here:
http://macscan.securemac.com/
First update the MacScan malware definitions before scanning. You can also contact their support team for any additional support - [email protected]
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 free trial the cost is $29.99. The full version permits you to scan selected files and folders only, as well as the entire hard disk. It will detect (and delete if you ask it to) all 'tracker cookies' that switch you to web sites you did not want to go to.)
A white paper was published on the subject of Trojans by SubRosaSoft, available here:
http://www.macforensicslab.com/ProductsAndServices/index.php?main_page=document_ general_info&cPath=11&products_id=174
Also, beware of MacSweeper and MacDefender (also goes under the name of MacProtector, MacGaurd, MacSecurity or MacShield) :
These are malware that misleads users by exaggerating reports about spyware, adware or viruses on their computer in an attempt to obtain payment.
Mackeeper is equally worthless and should also be avoided. Again, the developer seeks to obtain payment for an application that does nothing that free utilities do not also offer, and in many cases it will also mess up your system.
You can keep up to date, particularly about malware present in some downloadable pirated software, at the Securemac site:
http://www.securemac.com/
HOW TO AVOID RE-DIRECTION
Adding Open DNS codes to your Network Preferences, should give good results in terms of added security as well as speed-up:
Open System Preferences/Network. Double click on your connection type, or select it in the drop-down menu, and in the box marked 'DNS Servers' add the following two numbers:
208.67.222.222
208.67.220.220
(You can also enter them if you click on Advanced and then DNS)
Sometimes reversing the order of the DNS numbers can be beneficial in cases where there is a long delay before web pages start to load, and then suddenly load at normal speed:
http://support.apple.com/kb/TS2296
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!
WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOUR MAC HAS BECOME 'INFECTED'
If you think you may have acquired a Trojan, and you know its name, you can also locate it via the Terminal:
http://theappleblog.com/2009/04/24/mac-botnet-how-to-ensure-you-are-not-part-of- the-problem/
Although any content that you download has the possibility of containing malicious software, practising a bit of care will generally keep you free from the consequences of anything like the DNSChanger trojan.
1. Avoid going to suspect and untrusted Web sites, especially p'orn'ography sites.
2. Check out what you are downloading. Mac OS X asks you for you administrator password to install applications for a reason! Only download media and applications from well-known and trusted Web sites. If you think you may have downloaded suspicious files, read the installer packages and make sure they are legit. If you cannot determine if the program you downloaded is infected, do a quick Internet search and see if any other users reported issues after installing a particular program.
3. Use an antivirus program like ClamXav. If you are in the habit of downloading a lot of media and other files, it may be well worth your while to run those files through this AV application.
4. Use Mac OS X's built-in Firewalls and other security features.
5. Peer-to-peer sharing applications and download torrents (such as the now defunct LimeWire) supplying pirated software, movies etc are hotbeds of potential software issues waiting to happen to your Mac. Everything from changing permissions to downloading trojans and other malicious software can be acquired from using these applications. Similar risks apply to using Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, YouTube and similar sites which are prone to malicious hacking: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/8420233.stm
6. Resist the temptation to download pirated software. They can contain Botnet Trojans. SecureMac offer a simple and free tool for the removal of the iBotNet Trojan available here:
http://macscan.securemac.com/files/iServicesTrojanRemovalTool.dmg
YOUR PRIVACY ON THE INTERNET and the latest risks to look out for:
There is the potential for having your entire email contact list stolen for use for spamming:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/20/technology/internet/20shortcuts.html?_r=1
And if you are using iPhone Apps you are also at risk of losing all privacy:
http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/03/hacker-claims-third-party-iphone-apps-can-tra nsmit-udid-pose-se/
The advent of HTML5 may also be a future threat to internet privacy:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/11/business/media/11privacy.html?_r=1&hp
Security of OS X generally:
http://www.apple.com/macosx/what-is/security.html
http://www.nsa.gov/ia/_files/os/applemac/I731-007R-2007.pdf
Security Configuration for Version 10.5 Leopard:
http://manuals.info.apple.com/en_US/Leopard_Security_Config_2nd_Ed.pdf
NOTE: Apple's Snow Leopard and Lion operating systems silently update the malware protection built into Mac OS X to protect against a backdoor Trojan horse that can allow hackers to gain remote control over your treasured iMac or MacBook: Macs running Snow Leopard or Lion now check for new malware definitions daily, allowing Apple to quickly deploy protection from threats before they have a chance to spread.
Few malicious titles actually exist for Mac OS X, and those that do rely almost entirely upon duping users to install software that pretends to be legitimate.
http://www.sophos.com/blogs/gc/g/2010/06/18/apple-secretly-updates
However, if you are running Lion Server:
Apple's new server operating system -- OS X Lion -- is so inherently insecure that Stamos recommends keeping it off the network altogether and using Macs only as standalone machines connected to IP or Windows networks, not those designed for Macs.
The Mac Server's networking protocols -- especially DHX User Authentication -- are designed for ease of use, not security. It is trivial, Stamos said, for hackers to set up a Mac user to download a file that will overflow the buffer protecting the heap segment of the server's memory, allowing the file's malicious payload to run uncontrolled in the server's memory and give itself whatever access rights it wants.
http://www.macworld.co.uk/mac/news/index.cfm?newsid=3301796&olo=email

Antivirus software?

This might be kind of a silly question and I'm not sure if this is the right place for it. However, in the past I have read two conflicting things on Apple's website regarding antivirus software. One thing I read said it was recommended to have some sort of virus protection. Another thing I read said it was unnecessary.
I used to have the Mac version of Norton Antivirus on my Macbook Pro, however I removed it last year. Is it really necessary to have any kind of virus protection? Because when it comes down to it, anything connected to the Internet can receive a virus. If I don't have virus protection, how will I know if I have a virus? (I ask this because when I used to have PCs I never knew they had a virus until I completed a Norton scan.)
Thanks for your help!

The simple answer is that right now there are no real viruses that affect Macs. There's a few things that can produce some virus-like behavior but there's maybe a handful of these and as long as you don't install any unfamiliar software you are pretty much safe. The other handful can be dealt with almost on a case-by-case basis if your computer shows strange behavior.
Some exceptions are if you have an Intel Mac and run Windows on it, in which case you are really running Windows and are susceptible to anything a PC is. There can also be macro viruses in Office files. I have macros turned off in Office and don't run them unless I know the author.
If you swap files with PC users you can, potentially, pass on a PC virus to them although it won't affect your Mac. If you are in that situation you might think about installing free ClamXAV.
*Mac OSX and Viruses*
There are currently no real viruses that affect OS X users. There are very small number of things that can cause virus-like behavior that can affect Macs under special circumstances. These are:
1) [AppleScript, ASthtv05|http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/06/23/mac_trojan>
2) DNSChanger Trojan [http://www.f-secure.com/v-descs/trojanosxdnschanger.shtml]
From MacWorld, January 10, 2008:
SecureMac has introduced a free Trojan Detection Tool for Mac OS X. It's available here:
[http://www.securemac.com>
The DNSChanger Removal Tool detects and removes spyware targeting Mac OS X. Called DNSChanger Trojan and also known as OSX.RSPlug. A Trojan Horse the software attacks users attempting to play a fake video file.
Upon attempting to play the video, the victim receives the following message:
“Quicktime Player is unable to play movie file. >Please click here to download new version of codec.”
Upon running the installer, the user's DNS records are 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 DNS records stay modified on a minute-by-minute >basis.
SecureMac's DNSChanger Removal Tool 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.
There may be other ways of guarding against Trojans, viruses and general malware affecting the Mac. A white paper has recently been published on the subject by SubRosaSoft, available here|http://www.macforensicslab.com/ProductsAndServices/index.php?mainpage=document_general_info&cPath=11&productsid=174]
3) MacSweeper:
From [Wikipedia|http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/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
4) MS Office Macro viruses:
An exception to the "no viruses" is the possibility a macro virus could be present in an Office document and you could help breed that virus if you execute an Office macro. I have my default on Office to run no macros, and always check what the macro will do before I run one (never had to in 10 years of using Office).
5) It is possible to transfer a Windows virus to a Windows machine via a Mac if you copy the infected file and pass it on. [ClamXav|http://www.clamxav.com> is a free, open source virus scanner for Mac OS X that is designed to scan files that you will be sharing with Windows users to assist in making sure you don't pass on viruses to them.
6) Some people have had virus-like behavior appear on web pages due to a service (DNS) supplied by their ISP having a security vulnerability. This isn't your computer but your ISP. Nonetheless, it is a security risk. If you experience strange page behavior (e.g., ads for things on sites where you wouldn't expect those kind of ads) try putting these numbers in Network>TCP/IP>DNS Servers:
208.67.222.222
208.67.220.220
Click Apply. This is an alternate site for DNS which is patched against the vulnerability.
7) If you are using an Intel Mac and run Windows on that computer (or run Windows on a PPC Mac with VirtualPC) you are subject to all the viruses that affect the PC world and should take all the precautions that a PC user would.
[Dave Sawyer post about viruses on Macs|http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=8884756#8884756]
[The Mac Malware Myth|http://www.roughlydrafted.com/2009/01/29/the-mac-malware-myth>
[Should Mac Users Run Antivirus Software?|http://db.tidbits.com/article/9511]
[Trojans in illegal versions of Mac software downloaded from torrents|http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=8892099#8892099]
The tool below is supposed to remove these but commentors observe that only those downloading illegal software are vulnerable to these trojans.
[iWorksServices.clix|http://rixstep.com/2/20090123,00.shtml] 2009-01-23
The following 1198 byte download will rid your system of the iWorksServices trojan without your having to fumble with Terminal and the command line.
[Related information|http://www.technewsworld.com/story/Warning-to-iWork-Pirates-Here-Th ere-Be-Trojans-65944.html]
[Poker Game|http://www.macnewsworld.com/rsstory/63574.html]
The Trojan is masquerading as a program for Mac OS X called "PokerGame." A shell script encapsulated in an application, it is distributed in a 65 KB Zip archive; unzipped, it is 180 KB, according to Intego, one of the security firms that flagged it.

Free antivirus software

Hi:
Does anyone know of a free antivirus software available for mac 10.5.8? Thanks very much in advance.
Ciaochiao

The most commonly recommended antivirus for OS X is ClamXav:
http://www.clamxav.com/

What is the Best antivirus software for imac

I am looking for an antivirus software download for my iMac. Apple won't give a recommendation, so what is the best out there?

None.
Helpful Links Regarding Flashback Trojan and Virus Protection
An excellent link to read is Tom Reed's Mac Malware Guide.
Also, visit The XLab FAQs and read the FAQ on malware.
A link to a great User Tip about the trojan: Flashback Trojan User Tip.
To check for the trojan: Anti Flashback Trojan 2.0.4.
A Google search can reveal a variety of alternatives on how the remove the trojan should your computer get infected. This can get you started. Or the preferred method is to use Apple's protection tool: Flashback Malware Removal Tool 1.0.
Or, open Software Update. If you do not have the Apple protection software installed it will download and install it via Software Update. If no update appears that means you either already have it installed or it isn't needed for your system. The software is only available for Leopard, Snow Leopard, and Lion versions of OS X.
Also see Apple's article About Flashback malware.
For general anti-virus protection I only recommend using ClamXav.

Best antivirus software for iMac

What antivirus software do you recommend?

jazzy7 wrote:
What antivirus software do you recommend?
You already have it. 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.

I have just bought my first MacBook Air do you need antivirus software?

I have just bought my first MacBook Air should I have antivirus software like you do for a Windows base PC?

I don't recommend anti-virus software for a Mac. Such software often causes more issues than it solves.
Be careful about the websites you visit, the links you follow, and the attachments you open and you should be fine.

Antivirus software do i need it?

Just bought a mac mini one of the reasons being that i have heard it is less susceptible to virus's. Will i be fine just going online straight out of the box or should i get some extra antivirus. If i should what would people recommend.
thanks in advance

There are no viruses currently known to infect MacOS X systems. There are two potential trojans, one of which exploits a now-patched vulnerability in Quicktime, and another which masquerades as a 'required download' to watch some x-rated content on certain web sites.
However, as much as MacOS is certainly more secure than Windows, and the risks are significantly lower, it's always worth remembering that the weakest link in securing a system is the user. The best antivirus software in the world can't defeat a well crafted phishing exploit which the user unwittingly falls for. As such, caution and awareness are crucial.
Antivirus software is not, strictly speaking, necessary at this time for MacOS users. If you are behind a hardware firewall such as a domestic router and you have enabled the MacOS software firewall (in sharing preferences in Tiger and Security preferences in Leopard) then you are reasonably secure. Adding ClamXav (free and downloadable from http://www.clamxav.com/) and set that to watch potentially vulnerable folders such as your email, desktop, downloads etc., then you'll be well placed to detect malware as and when it begins to arrive. You might have a bit of a wait to detect any though!

Sophos Antivirus Software. Should I download it?

my email provider tells me my account may have been compromised and recommends I download Sophos Antivirus software for Mac. Should I?

Current threats protected against 8759961 vs 0
Mac and Windows
Mac to protect the Mac wake up please ignorance is no defence and Windows threats to avoid passing threats on.
This is one reason I normally avoid posting not worth the uneducated responses.

Antivirus software recommendations

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