From the course: Computer Literacy for Mac (2018)

Staying protected from viruses - Mac OS Tutorial

From the course: Computer Literacy for Mac (2018)

Staying protected from viruses

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- [Instructor] You're probably aware of the existence of malicious programs called viruses and the importance of keeping your computer protected from them. Viruses, or malware, as they're also referred to, are often created with the intent of stealing information from your computer or, sometimes, just to mess with your computer by erasing important files. Fortunately, as a Mac user, you don't have nearly as much to be concerned with as your Windows-using counterparts. It's difficult to infect a Mac with a virus and since the Mac has a much smaller user base than Windows, the cretins who create viruses generally keep their focus on the larger group. Now, that said, there have been some significant incidents of Mac viruses, but these usually involve tricking the Mac user into downloading and installing software containing a virus. So, while you don't have to worry as much about malicious software being installed through a website, like Windows users do, you still have to remain vigilant and not install software from an untrusted or unknown source. Also, as a general rule, don't open attachments or click links in emails from people you don't know either. And just because it's more difficult to infect a Mac with a virus it doesn't mean you can't be a carrier. If someone sends you an email with a Windows virus and you forward it to a Windows user, you've played your part in infecting that person's computer. Now, that said, antivirus software for the Mac does exist, but from most reports, the majority of Mac users don't use antivirus software. The choice is yours, of course, but as long as you don't click unknown links or install software from an unknown source, including pirated versions of popular software, you should be able to stay virus-free. In fact, your Mac even warns you when you try to run new software for the first time and asks you to be sure that you trust the source of the software. So just keep those tips in mind and you shouldn't have any trouble with viruses or malware.

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