Can some savvy Apple user recommend a reliable virus and malware scanner for a Mac desktop?
I’m running Sequoia on a Mac Mini M1
[Re-Titled by Moderator]
Antivirus: Absolutely not
Malware: MalwareBytes is effective particularly for Browser Hijacks where your searches are being redirected, and would only recommend a single scan if that has been noticed by you. I would still not recommend to have it installed to run constantly on your computer to use valuable resources.
Your Mac already uses XProtect to run 3 different types of scans on your computer at regular intervals. In addition you have Gatekeeper that will block Malware from being installed and you will see a message on startup if a file was unable to be scanned for Malware and protect your computer from installing files that are not signed.
mechanic1357 wrote:
The moderator on here won't allow links but there is an affiliate-link-policy page on the site you can review.
I already understand how Capitalism works, thanks.
I work in a corporate environment where AV is mandated and controlled by IS. We use Sophos and it has worked just fine on both Mac and Windows. I'm not a big advocate of AV and don't think it is strictly needed but a reputable developer isn't as much of a problem as some might contend.
Intego VirusBarrier Scanner is free on the App Store and also works well, if you want something lightweight.
Finally, check out the security apps from Eclectic Light, there are some good ones available.
The most important thing to do is to keep your device updated to the latest OS. For example iOS 18.4.1 has important security patches that address exploits. These are zero day updates that should be installed asap to stay secure.
It's also recommended to use Safari as your browser, as it goes hand-in-hand with the OS to address any potential security issues.
In my opinion, and in my personal experience, there is not a lot of additional value from installing 3rd party tools when it comes to security.
r4lf wrote:
The most important thing to do is to keep your device updated to the latest OS. For example iOS 18.4.1 has important security patches that address exploits. These are zero day updates that should be installed asap to stay secure.
iOS 18.4.1 is the system software for an iPhone. The OP has a Mac Mini. So, while the advice to keep the software up-to-date is good, the specifics are off. The current version of macOS is 15.4.1.
In my opinion, and in my personal experience, there is not a lot of additional value from installing 3rd party tools when it comes to security.
It seems as if we all agree on that.
IdrisSeabright wrote:
r4lf wrote:
The most important thing to do is to keep your device updated to the latest OS. For example iOS 18.4.1 has important security patches that address exploits. These are zero day updates that should be installed asap to stay secure.
iOS 18.4.1 is the system software for an iPhone. The OP has a Mac Mini. So, while the advice to keep the software up-to-date is good, the specifics are off. The current version of macOS is 15.4.1.
In my opinion, and in my personal experience, there is not a lot of additional value from installing 3rd party tools when it comes to security.
It seems as if we all agree on that.
You have touching faith in Apple/support/developers to keep released Mac versions free from malware issues. There are so many problem issues raised here that tend to show otherwise.
IdrisSeabright wrote:
mechanic1357 wrote:
Agree, and for those needing more balanced info, and not wanting to wait for the next Apple OS update to fix vulnerabilities, there are sources like:
How is that article "balanced" when MacWorld accepts ads from the very companies it's recommending? On the other hand, no one here makes any money from giving advice.
[Edited by Moderator]
The moderator on here won't allow links but there is an affiliate-link-policy page on the site you can review.
Your welcome.
The blue messages on the right side are those that you (or your cat) sent. In this case the hacker is you.
hahaha well ok. I certainly have no memory of sending that gibberish. Does any one want a cat?
In search of reliable malware and virus scanner software
