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Are Macintosh computers safe from online threats?
Sadly the answer is probably not. It is true that there have been few viruses, worms or Trojans aimed directly at Macintoshes - yet. But more and more people are buying Macintosh computers and malware writers love what they see as a challenge. The more popular Macs become, the more likely the malware writers are to attach them. Most malware is written for commercial gain. As the number of Mac users rises it will become increasingly likely that malware writers will want to attack them. (Update, 29 July 08 article from The Times website.)
Of course most Windows users are only too well aware of the need to have proper security protection on their computers. Don't be complacent just because you use a Mac or you might find out the hard way why Windows users install antivirus and antispyware software.
While writing this I did an internet search for Mac viruses. I discovered that there is already a Trojan written to attack Macs. Apparently this hijacks your internet settings and redirects you to a pornographic website. Horrible if your computer is used by children. Such Trojans make it virtually impossible to use the internet, I know, I've seen them on Windows computers, usually accompanied by a distraught owner who is franticly pleading innocence.
Malware writers want to redirect you to these sites in the hope of monetary gain. More Mac users means more potential users of their seedy sites and means the number of malware infections written for Macs is likely to rise.
I don't mean this to be a shock, horror, scare article, but I do think it's sensible to have proper protection on your computer. Most Mac owners that I know take the better safe than sorry approach. Many a Windows user has learnt the hard way why they should have had malware protection on their computer. It isn't worth the risk.
So what protection do you need? Mac compatible, anti virus software.
Avast have a Mac version which you can download here
ClamXav is a free Mac antivirus program. Download it here
Norton antivirus has a Mac version which you can download here
Make sure your software updates itself regularly. Be sure to renew any subscription when it falls due. Out of date antivirus software is useless.
You also need effective antispyware software. You can download MacScan here . There are a lot of, so called, antispyware programs available. Before downloading one, do your homework. Search the internet for reviews. Some are spyware themselves. They simply remove other spyware and install their own.
Are viruses, worms or Trojans the only online threats you need to worry about? Sadly they aren't. All those emails you are sent telling you that your bank is updating its software and magically needs you to update your details are sent to everyone. As are the emails from the numerous widows, orphans, accountents and heiresses who seem to need your personal help to move millions of dollars around. Keep your wits about you and don't get taken in by the scammers. If in any doubt make sure your web browser has a phishing filter built in to flag up doubtful websites. |
