HT202152: Mac App Store: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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humanremainz
Level 1 (4 points)
iPhone

Q: What antivirus software should i run on my mac?

What antivirus software should i run on my mac?

iMac (24-inch Early 2009), Mac OS X (10.6.8)

Posted on Aug 24, 2015 7:25 PM

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humanremainz

Q: What antivirus software should i run on my mac?

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  • Helpful answers

  • by Carolyn Samit,

    Carolyn Samit Carolyn Samit Aug 24, 2015 7:28 PM in response to humanremainz
    Level 10 (122,048 points)
    Apple Music
    Aug 24, 2015 7:28 PM in response to humanremainz

    Excellent article > The Safe Mac » Mac Malware Guide : Do I need anti-virus software?

  • by BobHarris,

    BobHarris BobHarris Aug 24, 2015 7:29 PM in response to humanremainz
    Level 6 (19,420 points)
    Mac OS X
    Aug 24, 2015 7:29 PM in response to humanremainz

    None of the above.

     

    How does Mac OS X protect me?

    <http://www.thesafemac.com/mmg-builtin/>

     

    They generally just hurt your Mac.

  • by MichelPM,

    MichelPM MichelPM Aug 24, 2015 9:54 PM in response to humanremainz
    Level 6 (13,784 points)
    iPad
    Aug 24, 2015 9:54 PM in response to humanremainz

    None.

     

    Antivirus software is NOT needed if the Mac you are running is only running OS X. Antivirus apps interfere with normal performance and operation of a Mac because they program too many controls (program extensions) into the main OS X system software impacting/impeding general performance of a Mac.


    Here are some of my tidbits of advice on how to avoid viruses in the future, if you encounter a virus, again.

    Some anti-virus solutions can slow down your Mac, but to be honest, the best anit-virus app is you, the user and your brain.


    Don't visit questionable websites or website you are unsure about.

    Don't use Torrents or engage in "Torrenting"

    Don't install pirated software or software downloaded from a questionable or unknown websites or untrutsted sources.

    Java is still a vulnerability concern,  if you do not need it, don't use it.

    Use a browser filter and pop-up blocker

    Don't open email attachments from email addresses that you do not recognize.

    Install security updates when they become available

    Educate yourself as to what threats are common and active.

    In effect, use your own brain as the antivirus filter.

    Follow that advise and in MOST cases, you will be fine and won't risk your Mac to potential Trojans, malware or viruses.


    If you feel you need some baseline virus protection that is minimally invasive on the Mac OS X system, install

     

    ClamXAV

     

    http://www.clamxav.com/