The answer to the question “Do Macs need antivirus or anti-malware software?” is “No, but” As a Mac user since late 1984, I have never had a virus, and I’ve rarely seen malware that caused an issue for more than just a few minutes. That includes the early days of Mac when the operating system wasn’t Unix-based with all of its. Sep 26, 2019 No software is immune to attack, including macOS. The rising popularity of Apple computers has made them a prime target for malware. And security companies are increasingly offering antivirus for Macs, but do you really need it?
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In the wake of recent hacks and news about widespread vulnerabilities, you may be wondering how you can protect yourself. For example, do you need antivirus software for Apple devices?
If you’re looking for a quick and simple answer, you won’t get one. Largely, that’s because the current threats to Apple users go far beyond the standard Windows computer viruses you may be familiar with. In other words: it depends.
Do Macs Need Virus Protection Software DownloadDo I Need Anti-Virus for My Mac?
Macs have long been touted as being more secure than Windows PCs. That’s largely true and, historically, Mac users have gotten away with not needing antivirus software. But malware that targets Macs has become more common as Apple’s market share grows.
Mac-targeting malware is not just more common, it’s also more devious. The recent ZombieLoad vulnerability, for example, exploits a component in most modern day computers — and allows it to bypass so-called perimeter defenses like firewalls or antivirus software.
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So, sure. You can use an antivirus scanning app on your Mac as part of a broader cybersecurity routine. But that app likely won’t detect critical vulnerabilities like ZombieLoad (even if they’re actively being used against you).
Do Apple Macs Need Antivirus ProtectionDo I Need Anti-Virus for My iPhone or iPad?
On the other hand, iOS features robust security protections because it’s a walled-garden system. You don’t need an antivirus program on iPhones or iPads. And, in fact, many so-called antivirus iOS apps are fairly disreputable or scammy.
But those system-level protections can’t defend against social engineering techniques that trick users into downloading side-loaded software on their devices.
What’s the Final Verdict?
All of this is to say that antivirus programs, particularly on the Mac, aren’t necessarily a bad idea. But they’re only one piece of the puzzle and they certainly don’t render you invulnerable to an attack.
Mac Virus Protection Software
In fact, they could do more harm than good if they lull you into a false sense of security. A much more effective course of action is a broad set of privacy and cybersecurity tactics: Mac record video screen.
Do Apple Computers Need Virus Protection
Vigilance and good cybersecurity habits are, by and far, the best defense against malware, viruses and major security vulnerabilities. They won’t make your Mac or iPhone impervious to attack — but they’ll definitely go a lot further than just using an antivirus app.
Do Macs Get Virus
Read Next:Apple Moving MacBook and iPad Production to Indonesia to Escape U.S.-China Trade War
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December 2020
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