SECURITY: Virus Scanners, Spyware, etc

Mac users have always prided themselves with the fact that they hardly have as many security problems, no viruses, etc, etc. Even the Mac expert told me I didn't really need anti-virus software and all that. OK, I can take that... I got the Macbook.
But the question is: Is that really wishful thinking? Or do I actually need some sort of additional security software, anti virus and anti spyware software, etc. And if it is important to have such things: What are good programs to get.
The only antispyware thing ive seen is MACSCAN and i've seen a few anti virus software, and i dont know which is "best"...

Tom,
1. Apple recommends using antivirus software. (See above.)
2. Apple ships antivirus as part of OS X Server. (See above.)
These two items should give us all pause.
First things first: Computer security is a process, not an end.
Step 1: Decide an appropriate level of paranoia for your system.(a) Since it's your system, you are responsible for its use and security.(b)
The key factors should be the value of your data, the value of your system, and the liability that you create for yourself if you do not take reasonable precautions.
Step 2: Stay aware of the threats and risks associated with using computers. Over time, threats and risks change, as do effective means to counter and mitigate them.
Step 3: Take appropriate precautions.(c)
Step 4: Lather, rinse, repeat.8
(a) Bad guys really are out to get control of your computer and steal your data.
(b) A personal computer is a general-purpose computing device, much as an automobile is a general-purpose transportation device. The level of safely of either depends on regular maintenance, properly installed and inspected safety and security equipment, disaster planning and recovery practice, and responsible use. There is no such thing as a completely secure car or computer: In order to be useful, they have to be able to do inherently dangerous things.
(c) In my practice, I have found the following list to be a decent baseline: At a minimum, you should make sure that your software is up-to-date, your firewall is properly configured, your critical data is backed up, you are reasonably protected from malware and don't spread it to others, your network has proper incoming and outgoing access controls, and you regularly read your logs.
What you do (or don't do) on your system is your choice. This is a topic that deserves serious attention and thought.
At the very least, we should be sure to put serious thought, research, and fact into prescriptions and recommendations for other users.
-Wayne

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