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News

Do I Need Anti-Virus for my Mac?

Monday, March 22, 2021

We get asked this question a ton. The simple answer is, for the overwhelming vast majority of us, NO!

The New York Times’ “Wirecutter” blog  recently published an extensive piece on whether computer users of all stripes need anti-virus protection. Here are some of the highlights that apply to Mac users like yourself!

  1. People have far fewer Macs than Windows computers so macOS is a less lucrative target for parties making malware. About 20% of the all computer users works wide are using Mac. 
  2. Macs include a wider variety of useful first-party apps by default, and both macOS and downloaded apps receive updates through Apple’s own App Store. Windows typically download software and hardware drivers from the Internet, as well as providing permissions to third-party apps, which are more likely to be malicious.
  3. Newer versions of Windows allow apps made for older versions of Windows to run, creating a complicated set of legacy systems. macOS on the other hand has seen less change over the years, and Apple has been less hesitant to render apps made for older versions obsolete. 
  4. Newer versions of macOS have security features that make running malicious software difficult, including requiring apps to request a variety of permissions, such as access to files, microphones, cameras, and other services, as you install them. This makes it pretty difficult to install something you don’t mean to.

As you can see, using Apple hardware and software affords you a considerable advantage when it comes to security. However, your Mac is not impenetrable. It can still be infected with malware, adware, and other junk software. If you’re lucky, it’s just annoying. At worst, someone could be trying to steal or access your information. 

We can make sure your Mac is clean and safe from most threats, as well as make sure you’re protected for the future. If you think malware may be on your machine. No worries, we know how to help!