A discussion on Macs, macOS & Malware...

Is Mac Virus Removal possible?

One of the reasons people migrate from Windows to macOS is because they are frustrated at having to deal with malware that all too often infects their system, in addition to the issue of utilising anti-virus software that is often cumbersome and heavily drains the systems resources - a combination sure to turn numerous PC users over to Mac. But once they make the move they often ponder whether or not they’ll require the same type of software to keep their Mac safe, i.e. do Macs need anti-malware software to stop viruses and other malicious threats from infecting their computer? The answer to this question isn’t a simple yes or no, so in today’s article we will dig a little deeper regarding Macs, viruses and how to remove them should you come across one (or more). 

Having used Macs for the best part of the last decade I can categorically state that I have never had a virus on any of the iMacs or MacBooks I have owned. This, of course, doesn’t mean that Macs are impervious and macOS security features cannot be breached, however from my experience and from the very few reports of effective malware on Macs it is clearly evident that macOS is a far more secure operating system than Windows. But what makes it so secure? 

Built-in security features: Apple’s first ‘safety net’ is called XProtect. This software runs in the background of all macOS systems and is automatically updated periodically. As it is integrated in the operating system it runs very smoothly and efficiently and doesn’t weigh heavy on your system resources like most anti-malware software will. The way it works is very simple. Apple has a list of malware and if any files downloaded onto your computer match with any of these then you will be notified immediately and prompted to move it to your trash folder. The next layer of security is known as Gatekeeper. This is designed to catch any malicious files or programs that may have slipped through the net on the first pass. It seeks out any app or software that hasn’t been digitally signed by Apple and brings up a warning should you try to open it. If a certain app does bring up such a warning that doesn’t automatically mean it is malicious, it simply means that it was not downloaded from the App Store. You can set your preferences to allow apps and files from certain sources if you wish (this can easily be done in the Security & Privacy menu in System preferences), but it is highly advised that you don’t allow all apps and files (to open without explicit user consent) as this may leave your system open to infection.

Firewall: Having your firewall turned on is absolutely vital and provides yet another layer of security for your Mac. Having it turned on will protect you from potential malicious connections from the internet or other computers. It is switched on as default, but it is prudent to double-check this by going to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall. If there is a green light followed by ‘Firewall: On’ then it is up and running - if not then be sure to turn it on immediately.

What to do if you need Mac virus removal? 

If you do manage to get a virus or some form of malware on your Mac then don’t panic as in most cases it can be resolved very easily. It is always best to speak to experts regarding this as they will know the ideal course of action to take to ensure very little or no damage occurs.

VirusRepairNow.com are the leading Mac virus removal company and you can get in touch with them via their website at the following address: https://virusrepairnow.com/services/mac-virus-removal/