The Mac offers good basic protection against viruses, malware and other threats. Is it necessary to also install an antivirus program on the computer?
Threats are increasing
For a long time, the Mac was of no interest to cybercriminals because Apple’s PCs had far fewer users than Windows. Now the group of Mac users has grown to such an extent that the interest among cyber criminals has increased. As a result, there are also more dangers lurking for the Mac. The chance of malware on the computer, for example, is smaller than with Windows, but there is a chance.
Basic protection
Mac computers offer good basic protection. They have a number of built-in features that protect the computer. In the background, the computer checks for apps downloaded from the Internet on the list of known malware. If malware does get on the computer, it can be removed. And apps not approved by Apple won’t open without the user’s permission.
User
The user is also indispensable for security on the Mac. It is important to ensure that the computer and the programs on it are up to date. Most new updates contain adjustments to make the computer more secure. In addition, it is important to turn on the firewall and only download reliable software. And the most important thing is that you pay close attention while surfing the internet. You can read more about this in the article ‘Mac computers: security’.
Need antivirus?
As mentioned, the Mac comes with basic protection and the user also plays a major role in security. However, it is also recommended to also install an antivirus program on the Mac. This offers extra security in this time with a lot of internet crime.
Software through provider
For the Mac, there are three options for antivirus programs. The first option is a virus scanner through your internet provider. Many providers offer a free or paid virus scanner. Usually that scanner is based on the antivirus program F-Secure SAFE. Read more about this in the tip ‘Security packages from the provider’.
Paid or free
The other two options are a paid or free antivirus package. Most well-known vendors also offer a program for the Mac. Think of Kaspersky, Norton, Bitdefender and MacAfee. Those are paid packages. A reliable free antivirus program is the Dutch AVG. Most free packages also have a paid version. The free package is then slightly less extensive.