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Is it possible to check for spyware without downloading an antivirus programme on a Macbook Pro. Some contributors advise against antivirus programmes.
[Re-Titled by Moderator]
MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 12.6
Some contributors advise against antivirus programmes.
For good reason. Most of those scam websites are designed to get you to do just that. Downloading and installing junk is the first step in a well-worn path to misery.
What you encountered is a common scam. Read Phony "tech support" / "ransomware" popups and web pages - Apple Community for a few examples and what to do about them.
By the way what you did was 100% correct: close the page and forget about it.
Thank you for your reply Yer_ Man.
I was browsing the internet when suddenly I got a Ransom demand telling me that I was locked out of my computer, not to attempt to close down my laptop but to ring a specified number to unlock it. I tried to close down but PC was totally locked. A window appeared after a short while with the option to " leave this page " which I actioned . My laptop has been operating normally since.
The only fear I have is that this hacker might have downloaded, during this sequence of events, Spyware. I am reluctant to use my credit card at the moment on the internet as a result.
Your comments would be very much appreciated.
Thank you ever so much John for your valuable advice. I have perused your recommended " Phoney tech support" website and feel much more confident when using my apple pc. Thanks once again.
Start at the beginning: Why do you think there might be spyware there? How did it get there?
I see no reason in that to suspect spyware of any kind. It sounds like an elaborate pop up on the website you were viewing.
Thank you once again YER_Man for your reply. Have a successful and happy year ahead.
Is it possible to check for spyware on a MacBook Pro?
