While Windows users will consider virus protection for their computers a must by default, the situation is often different for Mac users. The claim that “there are no viruses for Mac” pops up variously in many places, forums and including even Apple’s own advertising.
However, this isn’t always exactly true.
It’s not just that there have been several viruses affecting the Mac platform in the past. The most important thing to be aware of is that the threat from viruses and other malware targeting Mac-based computers is likely to increase significantly in the near future.
There are a few reasons as to why Mac users should be concerned about viruses and malware. Hackers are naturally attracted to the most popular platforms because, whether the intent is to steal users’ personal information, to direct attacks at certain websites, or simply to cause trouble for the sake of causing trouble, the most effective way to accomplish any of these things is to attack the operating system which is used by the greatest number of people.
This is why hackers have focused their time on developing malicious applications and exploits for Windows almost exclusively in the recent past. However, as Mac continues to become more popular and increase its market share, it stands to reason that the motivation for hackers to turn their attention to Mac will increase in kind.
Another thing that Mac users need to consider is the potential damage that can be caused by these threats. There are many types of viruses and malware currently in existence, with more surely to come, and each can potentially have a serious impact on things ranging from your computer’s performance to the integrity of your personal information and privacy.
Some viruses work to take control of your computer in order to carry out certain actions. This is the case with files that are designed to infect and take control of as many computers as they can with a view to accessing a certain website at a predetermined time. The idea is to overload the website with this illicit traffic and is called a “denial of service attack.” Viruses may also simply slow down your computer, or damage or corrupt files. These are some of the things that viruses, trojans, and other types of malware can do.
Spyware is another type of threat closely associated with viruses. Spyware, which often works in similar ways to viruses and can be defended against with some antivirus programs, can jeopardize the safety of your personal information if your computer is infected. Keystroke loggers are a type of spyware which allow hackers to see your usernames and passwords, which can then allow them to access sensitive personal information. So, whether you do things like online shopping, or even have any type of important files on your computer, for your own good, it’s best not to overlook the importance of being protected against viruses and malware, even on a Mac.
The Mac platform is especially vulnerable to a well-constructed virus because so many people are under the impression that this sort of thing could never happen. There are many options available in terms of software – some of which is even free – which will adequately protect your machine against these threats.
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