How to get rid of PC Virus on Mac?

Question

How to get rid of PC Virus on Mac?

Hi.

I have a MacBook Pro running OSX 10.7.5. Today, Symantec Endpoint Protection scanned my computer and detected an infected file name xvidsetup.exe. I know that it was a virus named Bad-Sectors.3422 (x) that infected the file. The file was originally in my trash can. Upon detecting it, I deleted the file manually. When the scan was done, I tried to delete it from Symantec, but it did not let me. I am assuming that it didn't let me delete or repair the file because I had already gotten rid of the file. I was wondering if the file is permanently deleted and how to delete PC viruses in the future if I do get one.

Thanks.

MacBook Pro, Mac OS X (10.7.5)

Posted on Jul 20, 2013 4:15 PM

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Answer 1

thomas_r.

Level 7

32,031 points

Jul 20, 2013 5:28 PM in response to stevewater12345

First, note that your Mac cannot be infected with a PC virus. Deleting the file is all that is necessary, and even that is only necessary to avoid passing it on to others.

Second, Symantec has a proven history of not understanding the Mac. Their software has been known to cause problems, and their detection of Mac malware is not particularly good. See:

http://www.thesafemac.com/mac-anti-virus-testing-01-2013/

I would recommend removing that. Then read my Mac Malware Guide for information on protecting yourself against malware.

http://www.thesafemac.com/mmg

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Answer 2

Jul 20, 2013 8:49 PM in response to thomas_r.

Thank you.

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