Category Archives: Security

Do Macs Need Antivirus Software?

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As noted here, one of the topics discussed during my presentations at the ABA TechShow was whether or not Macs need to run antivirus software.  I created somewhat of a stir when I adamantly defended my belief that Macs are so secure that antivirus software is not necessary.  Apple touts the Mac’s security as one of it’s main features, as shown here.

Security expert Rich Mogull seems to agree with me in his article, "Should Mac Users Run Antivirus Software?" published at TidBITS.  He writes that the average Mac user does not need desktop antivirus software. He does recommend additional protection for those users who engage in risky online behavior, such as visiting questionable websites, installing strange software, failing to filter for spam, etc.

I’m interested in your opinions on this subject.  Do you use anti-virus software on your Mac?  Why or why not?  Please submit your comments on this subject, and I look forward to seeing what my readers think.

The Mac Trojan Horse :: How to Avoid It & How to Cure It

Posted on by Posted in How Do I ...?, Mac OS X, Security Leave a comment
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I want my readers to be aware that there is a Mac security threat (called a "trojan horse") making its rounds across the internet.  This malware, named the OSX.RSPlug.A Trojan Horse, is apparently associated with suggestive photos/videos of pop train-wreck Britney Spears.  Please note that this is not virus — meaning that it can’t self-propagate from one machine to another.

When you believe that you have found the video of Ms. Spears and click to watch it, you receive a message stating that your machine lacks the necessary
codec.  A disk image will then start downloading, and it can then mount and launch an installer which
asks for your admin password.  If you enter the password, you have allowed the trojan horse to be installed.

Of course, you should NEVER install anything that you receive from an untrusted source.  (Note:  I won’t comment or pass judgment on the impropriety of searching for or viewing suggestive videos or photos of scantily clad or nude pop stars.)  If you find your machine is infected, Macworld has outlined the necessary steps to remove the trojan horse from your machine.

While I know that it is somewhat disconcerting to have to remember that malware exists, since it’s not something that Mac users face that often, don’t forget that this particular threat only poses a problem if you are careless and give your Mac permission to install it.  Even with this threat, Mac OS X is still quite safe and secure, and I don’t plan to get any "security software" at this time. 

Source:  "Trojan Horse Warning: What You Need to Know" by Rob Griffiths, published at Macworld.