01 March 2024  —  Acronis

Revealing the Best Antivirus for Mac: Protect Your Apple Device!

Acronis
Table of contents
The importance of Antivirus Protection for Mac Users
Understanding Mac security threats
What is the best antivirus software for Mac?
How to choose the right antivirus for your Mac?
Acronis True Image is the top antivirus solution for Mac.
The future of Mac security
Mac users' frequently asked questions
Acronis True Image
formerly Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office

The importance of Antivirus Protection for Mac Users

Many people and businesses using Mac computers, especially those with Mac antivirus software, have long believed they have better cyber protection than Windows users. However, it is not entirely accurate.

Even more disturbing is the increase in cyberthreats specifically targeted at Mac operating system software. According to Malwarebyte's "2023 State of Malware" report, there has been a 42% rise in malware detections in businesses and individuals using Mac operating systems in 2023. On the other hand, companies utilizing Windows operating systems experienced a 24% decrease in malware attacks. This contrasts with the common misleading information that Apple computers have better virus protection than those that use Windows as their operating system.

These findings confirm that Mac security software can protect you from all the advanced cyberthreats stalking us in our everyday online activities. This leads to the conclusion that their integrated level of security may not be as robust as previously believed. They are also likely to encounter an increasing number of cyberthreats. We can explain the rise of cyberattacks targeted at macOS devices because most people using such phones and computers rely on what is said about macOS security and don't equip themselves with additional antivirus protection programs. Thus, cybercriminals are aware of this vulnerability and concentrate their efforts on creating sophisticated and advanced viruses and cyberthreats directed at these weaknesses in the security system.

This article dives deeper into Mac cybersecurity by exploring why misleading information about Macs being more secure from cyberthreats persists. We will also examine the types of cyberattacks targeting Mac OS X and provide recommendations on enhancing your Mac's cyber protection and not becoming the next victim of the mean cybercriminals.

Understanding Mac security threats

As we mentioned, the cyberthreats that a macOS can face are far more than they were in the past. Nowadays, cybercriminals have designed advanced viruses like malware, ransomware, and identity theft attacks targeted particularly at Mac devices. In the past, Mac malware protection and antivirus tools like XProtect could handle all known potential threats, but now the reality has changed. We are witnessing increased attacks and new viruses explicitly designed for macOS devices.

The virus protection implemented in the OS of all Apple devices no longer prevents these vicious and sophisticated threats. The possibility of becoming a victim of cybercriminals has increased multiple times through the vulnerabilities that these attackers see as an opportunity to infect your device and collect sensitive information related to bank and identity information and overall important data that we all store on these computers and phones.

According to recent research, the number of malware attacks on Apple devices has quadrupled in the last five years, possibly related to the COVID-19 crisis that we all have been through. Most people relocated their workspace from the office to working from home. Cybercriminals saw this opportunity as a perfect moment to multiply their attacks, like designing advanced malicious software and other cyberattacks.

Unfortunately, most Mac users believe their devices are provided with strong virus, malware and ransomware protection; they don't provide themselves with additional standalone Mac antivirus software. This is a real problem for every user provided with an Apple device. On the other hand, it is a perfect opportunity for cybercriminals to use this misunderstanding and penetrate their victims’ computers and mobile devices.

In this article, we want to make people understand the importance of additional antivirus software to protect computers from the threats that are stalking us every day. We will discuss the advantages of using such software and the security level it will provide. We will cover what to look for in the best Mac antivirus program and tips on choosing the one to meet your needs and budget.

What is the best antivirus software for Mac?

Protecting Mac computers against cyber attacks has become critical aspect, because of the constant development of new and more advanced viruses and cyber threats that we may face on a daily basis while being online doing our everyday activities. It is a well-known fact that cybercriminals are creating new approaches to penetrate our security systems and to make every antivirus program struggle with the task to detect and prevent them on time in their early stage. The need for strong and reliable cyber security has become a must in the world we are currently living in, because if we aren't equipped with the right security tools to prevent these harmful attacks, this can lead to serious consequences for every one of us. Fortunately, not only the threats are developing and becoming stronger, but the same counts for the protection software and security tools that have the main goal of protecting us from these harmful and destructive cyber attacks.

Using antivirus for mac equips us with comprehensive security features and tools, creating a strong security and defence against countless malicious programs, viruses, and online dangers. From real-time scanning and firewall protection to identity theft prevention and ransomware defense, these tools offer robust protection against today's advanced cyber threats that are out there stalking us in the web space.

In this article, we'll dive deeper into some common features and tools provided by the best antivirus for Mac users, each playing a critical role in ensuring the security and safety of our Apple computers.

Are you impatient to understand more about Mac antivirus security? Then keep reading. Let's explore in details about how antivirus software works and how it protects us.

Real-time protection

  • Real-time protection and a virus scanner are very important features of an antivirus for Mac users. It processes continuous monitoring of files, applications, and system processes for MacOS malware signs or malicious activity and if such are detected, you will be notified about them. By employing advanced detection algorithms, antivirus apps identify and neutralize threats in real-time, minimizing the risk of infection and data compromise, which will prevent the serious consequences you may face due to this type of attack.

Firewall and network security

  • Another critical feature is firewall protection, which is essential for providing security to our Mac computers against unauthorized access and network-based attacks, which unfortunately are becoming more prevalent than ever. This antivirus tool includes built-in firewalls that constantly monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic, block suspicious connections, and prevent malicious actors from exploiting the vulnerabilities in our systems. After detecting such suspicious activity, the tool closes every backdoor on our computer in order to restrict every chance of unauthorized access.

Anti-phishing features

  • Phishing attacks are a significant threat to Mac and Windows users, attempting to trick us into sharing sensitive information through fraudulent emails, websites, or messages. Their tactics are based on fake emails or websites pretending to come from trustworthy sources and asking for our personal information. Suppose you are unaware of this threat. Providing the requested data may lead to serious consequences for you, like identity theft and using it for the criminal purposes of the cybercriminals. Antivirus for Mac includes anti-phishing tools that detect and block such phishing attempts in their early stages, ensuring that every user remains protected against identity theft and online scams. Common signs to look for in phishing attacks are grammar or spelling mistakes in emails because this is a sure indicator of an attack from a cybercriminal.

Identity theft protection

  • Identity theft protection features are designed to protect our personal information and sensitive data from cybercriminals. Through constant monitoring of our online activities and dark web channels, antivirus software alerts us for potential identity theft threats, enabling proactive steps to minimize risks and protect us against unauthorized access.

Ransomware protection

  • One of the most unpleasant experiences for every one of us is becoming a victim of a ransomware attack. Unfortunately, these attempts have become increasingly common. If you are unlucky enough and become a victim of such an attack, hackers will encrypt your sensitive information and cherished data, and demand a ransom to be paid in order to restore access to it. The antivirus for Mac offers advanced ransomware protection, employing behavior-based detection techniques to identify and block ransomware threats before they can cause any damage.

Web protection

  • This is one of the most important security tools that everybody must be equipped with. Having web protection features is crucial in order to protect you against harmful websites and to stop you from downloading malicious files. Antivirus for Mac examines website links and content in real time, effectively blocking access to websites and minimizing the chances of malware infections.

Malware detection and removal

  • Antivirus for Mac Os includes robust malware detection and removal capabilities. This process happens by scanning your data and applications for signs of malicious activity and quarantining suspicious files for further analysis. By proactively detecting malware and removal, antivirus apps ensure the integrity and security of Mac computers.

Free vs paid Mac antivirus software

As the saying goes, there is no free lunch. If you want the best Mac antivirus, subscribe to a paid version. A subscription plan guarantees you will be provided with the latest high quality security technology and approach. You will also benefit from additional features like automatic software updates, real-time monitoring and automatic scans of your Mac computer.

The paid version is always the best option when you need reliable antivirus security for your computer. When using such software, you will receive the latest malware, ransomware, identity theft and phishing scanning tools. For example, these tools will identify and stop attacks, preventing them from bypassing your security system —a common scenario when using a free antivirus version. It is fundamental to subscribe to a paid version of antivirus for Mac to protect your computer and the sensitive information stored there. Do not make any exceptions using free antivirus versions because they are unreliable when facing advanced threats. On the other hand, users seek basic malware protection, and free antivirus software options offer these primary security features without needing a subscription. The free antivirus apps provide virus scanning, malware detection and basic protection against online threats, making them suitable for users with basic security needs. Of course, these tools we mentioned have a primary level of security and won't detect and respond to advanced and sophisticated malware threats.

Also, free Mac antivirus solutions won't provide real-time or dark web monitoring, which could be a serious problem. We all know what happens when our sensitive information gets into the hands of cybercriminals. They use it for criminal purposes or sell it on the dark web. This, of course, could lead to dire consequences for you. Nowadays, you can wake up in the morning with a new debt in your name because information has leaked and been sold on the dark web.

Everyone should make up their minds when choosing to use paid or free antivirus software for Macs. As we mentioned, the paid solution offers a comprehensive suite of features to protect against a wide range of cyber threats. From real-time scanning and firewall protection to identity theft prevention and ransomware defense, these antivirus tools provide Mac users with security and peace of mind and protect them with the best possible features and tools. By leveraging the features offered by Mac antivirus, you protect your Apple computers against malware, phishing attacks and other online dangers, ensuring a secure and protected computing experience

How to choose the right antivirus for your Mac?

We live in a digital world where most activities use the internet. We play games, watch videos, entertain ourselves online, pay our bills, use digital banking, send sensitive information through email, etc. All these activities make us prone to becoming targets of cybercriminals who try to penetrate our security systems and lock or steal sensitive information for their financial benefit.

To solve this problem it is best to use antivirus for Mac. There are a variety of antivirus options available, but selecting the right one can be a difficult task. Suppose you educate yourself about the features and tools provided by the best Mac antivirus software companies. In that case, you can confidently choose a solution that meets your needs and provides robust protection for your Mac. You may ask yourself, how do I know if I have chosen the right antivirus program? Don't worry. In this guide, we'll explore the key factors to consider when selecting the right antivirus for your Mac.

Compatibility and system impact

Before diving into the features and capabilities of antivirus software, it's essential to ensure compatibility of the antivirus program with your Mac's operating system version. Additionally, consider the system impact of the antivirus software on your Mac's performance. Because there is a change to provide yourself with one, that will be a bit heavy for your system, and this will result in making your Mac computer slower. Look for lightweight antivirus programs that provide comprehensive protection without slowing down your system.

Protection features

Evaluate the protection features offered by the antivirus software. You must look for security tools like real-time scanning, data breach monitoring, firewall and network security, anti-phishing and ransomware protection, and last, but not least, identity theft protection. These features work together to protect your Mac against a wide range of cyber threats, ensuring comprehensive security for your digital assets, and minimizing the chance of becoming a victim of cybercriminals or your computer being infected with viruses.

User interface and ease of use

Security features and tools are definitely the most important aspects to consider when selecting the proper antivirus for Mac devices, but another critical aspect is a user-friendly interface for seamless navigation and configuration of the Mac antivirus. Look for solutions with interfaces that make it easy for you to perform scans, configure settings, and access support resources. Additionally, consider the availability of user guides, tutorials, and 24/7 customer support options to assist you with additional questions or issues.

Performance and resource usage

Assessing performance is another fundamental aspect to take into consideration. You must make an educated choice about the impact and resource usage, of the antivirus software on your Mac. Look for solutions that minimize system resource consumption, while providing strong security protection against malware and other relevant threats. Avoid antivirus for Mac that would significantly slow down your computer or cause performance issues during regular use, because this can really annoy every one of us. For instance, this will definitely affect gaming.

Reputation and reviews

Before choosing an antivirus solution, educate yourself about the vendor’s reputation and read reviews from other Mac users to learn about the effectiveness and reliability of the offered security protection. The best information is from people who have already used the product. Take time to read the reviews from other users, how pleased they are with the security provided and other important aspects like customer support, updates, etc.

Pricing and licensing

It is a well-known fact that pricing is one of the most important things we have in mind when subscribing to any type of service, and antivirus for Mac is no exception. Consider the pricing and licensing options offered by the antivirus software vendor. Look for flexible subscription plans, that meet your budget and provide value for money. Additionally, assess the licensing terms to ensure compliance with the number of devices and users covered in the plan.

Customer support and updates

When we have a problem and we can't solve it, we have to contact someone to help. So check the level of customer support and frequency of updates provided by the antivirus software vendor before choosing. Look for solutions that offer timely software updates to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities. Additionally, assess the availability of customer support channels, such as email, phone, or live chat, to assist you with any technical issues or questions.

Trial period and money-back guarantee

Take advantage of trial periods and money-back guarantees, provided by antivirus software vendors to test the solution before making a subscription. Use this opportunity to assess the performance, features, and usability of the antivirus software to ensure it meets your expectations and provides adequate protection for your Mac. All of the vendors offer free trials of their programs to test and get used to the software, thus, you will also see if it really meets your expectations.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right antivirus for your Mac that provides complete protection against malware, phishing attacks, and other cyber threats. Another thing we must mention is remembering to regularly update your antivirus for Mac and practice safe browsing habits to enhance your Mac's security in order to protect your digital assets. Whether it's identity protection, dark web monitoring, or parental controls, finding the best antivirus software tailored for Mac users is crucial for a secure online experience 24/7.

Acronis True Image is the top antivirus solution for Mac.

Everyone wants the best protection for themselves and their business. Finding the best Mac antivirus is difficult because it requires the time-consuming process of researching and familiarizing yourself with the latest security protection technologies.

Acronis True Image is the best Mac antivirus and is a proven fact. For years, Acronis has been the leader in providing cybersecurity solutions. We have received countless awards for innovation, effectiveness and top-notch technologies that provide robust cyber protection and backup services.

Why is it the best among the other Mac antivirus options on the market? We will explain this in detail because the features and tools that our products provide you are impressive.

Simply Acronis True Image provides you with complete cyber protection from all the threats that are out there. You will also have backup solutions in case of emergencies, data migration options, cloud storage space, and many other helpful features. Does this sound interesting to you? Let's dive deeper to look at all the benefits you will have with Acronis True Image.

Our product stands out not only for its advanced antivirus protection but also for the various additional tools and features.

  1. Integrated backup and recovery: One of the main features of Acronis True Image is its integrated backup and recovery functionality. You can easily create full disk images, incremental backups, and file-level backups of your Mac system. This ensures that you have a reliable backup solution, which will protect you against data loss in case of hardware failure, malware infections, or accidental deletion.
  2. Acronis True Image cloud storage: Our product provides you with access to personal cloud storage space, allowing you to securely store your backups in the cloud. This provides an additional layer of protection against data loss by ensuring that backups are stored offsite and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
  3. Active protection against ransomware: Another critical benefit is the active protection against ransomware, which monitors for suspicious behavior and automatically blocks ransomware attacks in real-time. This proactive approach blocks ransomware attacks from encrypting your files and prevents you from becoming a victim of cybercriminals demanding a ransom to be paid before restoring access to your data. With our solution, you won’t find yourself in this situation.
  4. Privacy protection tools: In addition to antivirus and backup features, Acronis True Image includes privacy protection tools to help you protect your sensitive information. This includes tools for securely deleting files, encrypting sensitive data, and password management. These tools help you to maintain your privacy and protect against identity theft and unauthorized access to your personal information.
  5. Secure online backup: Another fundamental benefit includes secure online backup options, allowing you to securely back up your data to the cloud. This guarantees that backups are protected from physical damage or loss and can be accessed from anywhere; you will only need an internet connection. Additionally, a secure online backup provides an extra layer of protection against ransomware attacks, as backups stored in the cloud are not vulnerable to encryption by ransomware. This makes you immune from becoming a victim of ransomware attacks, and you won't need to pay a penny in an emergency. Just send greetings to the cybercriminals, not money.
  6. Advanced threat detection: Acronis True Image employs advanced threat detection algorithms and security tools to identify and neutralize malware threats, ransomware, web and email threats, and other cyberattacks. All these advanced tools are included in your antivirus package. Furthermore, these algorithms analyze file and system behavior, network activity and system settings to detect suspicious activity and prevent malicious software from compromising your Mac computer. Lastly, it provides a phishing protection security tool that corrects security vulnerabilities, making it the right antivirus software for you.
  7. Scheduled backup and sync: We all know the importance of regular backups and synchronization. You can schedule these processes and automate backups with Acronis True Image, ensuring that your data is always up-to-date. This feature allows you to set backup schedules, based on your preferences and ensures that important files are backed up regularly without requiring manual intervention. 

With all these advanced security tools and approaches, you will have the confidence your computer has the best cyber protection. Thus, no matter what happens, your computer and network will be protected, and sensitive information won't be affected.

Installation and Setup Guide (Acronis True Image])

We already know the countless benefits that Acronis Cyber Protection Home Office provides. Now it's time to help you with the installation of the security software. Follow this guide step-by-step, and you will manage to install it easily and quickly on your Mac computer.

Step 1: Double-click the Acronis True Image setup file (the file has a.dmg extension).

Step 2: Double-click Install Acronis True Image in the Acronis True Image window.

Step 3: Follow the installer steps.

Step 4: When prompted, provide administrator credentials. The program will then be installed.

On macOS Mojave 10.14 or Catalina 10.15, you need to grant access to Acronis International GmbH after the installation. It is required for loading kernel extensions in order to have all the protection features. Please perform the following:

  • Open System Preferences.
  • Go to the General tab of Security & Privacy.
  • Click Allow to accept the prompt that appears.

Now, you can use an enjoy your Acronis True Image.

Emerging threats and the future of Mac security

Unfortunately, we live in a world where technologies are becoming more advanced and updated, but so are the cyberattacks we are exposed to daily. While Mac devices have been known for their robust security features, they're not immune to emerging threats that are stalking us around the corner to hit in a moment of vulnerability. As we look to the future, understanding these advanced threats and the trajectory of Mac security is crucial for staying one step ahead of cyberthreats. Let's cover these harmful threats we face in our everyday activities so that we can be one step ahead of them.

The rise of targeted attacks

In the last few years, targeted attacks have significantly increased, especially against Mac users. Cybercriminals are increasingly concentrating on finding vulnerabilities in macOS and popular Mac applications to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information and use it for criminal purposes. The truth is that our computers and phones have become an essential part of our lives, and we are using them not only for entertainment but also for services related to our finances, like online banking, where we can pay our bills, online shopping, etc. This is the exact target of the cybercriminals: to get access to this information and use it for their financial benefit.

Sophisticated malware and ransomware

The threat landscape for Macs is constantly evolving and becoming more dangerous daily, with cybercriminals developing more sophisticated and advanced malware and ransomware attacks specifically targeted at macOS devices. These malicious programs can bypass security systems and slip through the Mac system’s vulnerabilities. This could lead to data breaches, financial losses, system compromises, and some serious consequences for everyone. The best thing to stop these potential threats is to equip yourself with a reliable antivirus program, thus minimizing the chances of becoming a victim of these mean and destructive attacks.

IoT and connected device vulnerabilities

As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to proliferate, the interconnected nature of devices poses new security challenges and threats for Mac users. IoT devices, such as smart home appliances, Wi-Fi networks, wearables, and connected devices, often have vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit to gain access to home networks and compromise Mac user security. Securing these interconnected devices and implementing network security are critical steps in preventing the risks associated with IoT vulnerabilities.

Social engineering and phishing attacks

Social engineering and phishing scams continue to pose serious threats to the security of Mac devices, using tactics to deceive users into sharing confidential information or clicking on harmful links. Mac users need to be careful and stay alert when engaging with emails, texts, and internet content. As hackers improve their strategies and develop phishing emails and fraudulent websites,.

The future of Mac security

In the future, Mac security will require the integration of cutting-edge threats, proactive security steps, and educational initiatives for users. The development of antivirus software for Mac OS X will continue to progress to combat threats by utilizing machine learning algorithms, behavioral analysis, and real-time threat intelligence to identify and address Mac malware.

In addition to boosting Mac security, including security features in MacOS and third-party applications, practices such as application sandboxing, secure boot procedures, and data encryption are expected to become more secure ways to protect Mac users from cyber attacks. Additionally, user education and awareness are crucial for the battle against becoming victims of a cybercrime. It is imperative for Mac users to stay informed about emerging threats, adhere to security practices, and understand the importance of updating software while implementing robust password management protocols. Mac users can navigate the changing web space confidently while ensuring protection for their devices and data from cyber threats by recognizing emerging threats and adopting security measures. Collaboration between users, software developers, and security professionals holds promise for the future of Mac security by paving the way for solutions and proactive approaches to creating a safe digital environment.

Mac users' frequently asked questions

What is every user’s most common questions related to their MacOS devices? Let's review the most frequent questions.

Do I need antivirus software for Mac computer?

Although Macs are often seen as more secure compared to Windows devices due to their operating systems, they are still susceptible to malware and other cyber threats. As Macs become increasingly popular, they are becoming targets for cybercriminals. Therefore, having antivirus programs installed can offer a level of defense against software and potential online hazards. Blocking these harmful attacks on time and keeping you away from the danger zone.

How to determine the best antivirus for Mac?

There is no universal answer to this question. The best antivirus program for Mac depends on your specific needs and preferences, and of course, your budget. The main purpose is to search for reputable antivirus software vendors that offer comprehensive protection against malware, phishing attempts, identity theft, ransomware, and other cyber threats. Consider factors such as real-time scanning, firewall protection, and ease of use when choosing the right antivirus program for your Mac. Thus, you will provide yourself with peace of mind knowing that the chance of becoming a victim of such an attack is minimized almost to zero.

Will antivirus software slow down my Mac?

Modern antivirus programs are designed to have minimal impact on system performance, like CPU and RAM usage. However, some antivirus software may need more system resources than others to perform the task and provide you with complete cyber protection.

Can antivirus software detect Mac-specific threats?

Yes, antivirus programs are capable of detecting and removing Mac-specific threats, such as malware and ransomware targeting macOS. These antivirus solutions employ advanced detection algorithms and threat intelligence to identify and neutralize these threats before they can cause harm to your system and lead to some serious consequences for you.

Do I still need to practice safe browsing habits if I have antivirus software installed?

Absolutely! It's crucial to have an antivirus program as an element of your cybersecurity strategy. Although antivirus software can protect your Mac from malware and online dangers, it's equally important to stay vigilant and adopt safe browsing practices. This is key to reducing the likelihood of coming across websites falling for phishing scams and encountering cyber risks. You must be careful when interacting with links, downloading content, and sharing details online, even if you have antivirus protection.

Can antivirus software protect my Mac from identity theft?

All antivirus programs provide you with features designed to protect against identity theft, such as identity monitoring and dark web scanning. These features can help detect signs of identity theft, such as unauthorized access to personal information or compromised credentials, and alert you before it is too late.

Are there free antivirus programs available for Mac?

In fact, yes, most vendors provide an option for a free antivirus program, and it is related to their free trial period, which in most cases is 30 days. After this period, you will need to make a subscription with a monthly payment. These free antivirus solutions offer you basic protection against malware and other online threats, however, they won't be able to provide you with the security capabilities of the paid version, where you will find complete protection against every known cyber threat.

How often should I update my Mac antivirus software?

It is essential to keep your software up-to-date, so you will be protected from the newest and most advanced threats. All of the antivirus vendors offer you automatic updates for your protection software included in the subscription package, but it is always a good idea to perform a manual search for the newest updates.

Can antivirus software protect my Mac from phishing attempts?

Absolutely! Numerous antivirus programs come equipped with functionalities explicitly tailored to protect you from phishing attempts. These functionalities can identify and thwart phishing emails, malicious links and websites, and other harmful content intended to pilfer data or jeopardize security. When choosing antivirus software, prioritize options that provide advanced protection against phishing attacks. As per the latest research, 30% of the cyberattacks come exactly from phishing 

How can I get technical support for my Mac antivirus software?

Many companies that create antivirus programs provide ways for customers to get help, like through email, phone calls, or live chat. They also offer resources, user manuals, and FAQs to guide users in solving problems and maximizing the benefits of their antivirus software. To find out how to reach out for support, you can visit the antivirus software company's website, where you will find information on how to contact them when needed.

Can Macs get viruses?

For years, Mac users have enjoyed a sense of security, believing their devices were immune to the viruses and malware that plagued Windows systems. However, recent research and emerging trends in cyber threats paint a different picture. The question arises: Can Macs get viruses? Let's dive deeper into this topic and explore the latest research findings related to the rise of attacks on macOS.

Are Macs invulnerable?

Macs have long been known for their robust security features and Unix-based architecture, which historically made them less susceptible to viruses and malware compared to Windows users. This notion of Mac invulnerability led to a widespread belief that Macs were immune to cyberthreats, resulting in a false sense of security among Mac users. Things have changed significantly, and the need for reliable antivirus programs emerges.

Are Macs immune to viruses and cyberattacks?

Studies and events have shown that the belief that Macs are impervious to threats is no longer valid. It has become evident that Mac computers can be affected by viruses and malicious software. Hackers are now focusing more on macOS, launching attacks to take advantage of weaknesses in the system and common Mac applications.

Is there a rise in attacks on macOS?

According to recent research, the number of malware and virus attacks targeting macOS has quadrupled in recent years. Cybercriminals are actively developing specific malware attacks and approaches that trick users into downloading and installing malicious software, which then steals their sensitive information and provides it to the cybercriminals, and that could have catastrophic consequences for you.

What are the trends in Mac-specific malware?

In the last five years, there has been a rise in malware attacks, especially ransomware, which encrypts files on a victim's Mac and demands payment in exchange for the decryption key. The bad news is that there is no guarantee that even though you pay the ransom, these criminals will restore access to your information. This is why ransomware is one of the most harmful types of malware: if you don't have a backup of your information, there is a real chance of losing all your data in the blink of an eye.

What should I do if my Mac gets infected?

This is one of the most common questions, and unfortunately, it is often asked after the infection has already attacked our computer. If you discover that your Mac has been infected with malware or other malicious software, it can be an unpleasant experience. However, it's essential to remain calm and take proper actions to prevent or minimize the damage and restore your Mac's security. In the following paragraph, we will explore what to do if your Mac gets infected and discuss the steps to handle the situation effectively.

Step 1: Disconnect from the internet.

Disconnect your Mac computer from the internet to prevent the malware from communicating with other systems, if there are any, like networks or switches. This will stop the infection from spreading to other devices connected to the same network.

Step 2: Assess the damage

Next, evaluate the scope of the infection and observe for signs of unusual actions or behavior on your Mac computer.

Step 3: Use antivirus software to scan for malware.

If you are already using antivirus software for MacOS, run a full scan on your computer to detect and remove any malicious software that could have been installed on it. After the scan is complete, follow the steps to quarantine or delete the detected malicious files. Remember, you must keep your antivirus software up to date because you’ll have the latest threat patterns and approaches.

Step 4: Utilize macOS Recovery Mode

If your Mac is in the advanced stage of the infection, you may not be able to boot the computer manually. In this case, you must start macOS recovery mode to troubleshoot and repair your system. You can do this by booting your computer into recovery mode by restarting it and then holding down Command + R until the Apple logo appears on your screen. Afterward, you can use Disk Utility to repair disk errors or reinstall macOS to remove any persistent malware infections on your computer.

Step 5: Restore from a backup

After the boot process and disk cleaning are complete, you must process a backup of your Mac's data. If you have a recent backup, all your information will be restored, but if there isn't one, you may lose some of the information stored since the last successfully completed backup. To complete this process, you need to use Apple Time Machine or another backup solution to restore your computer's data to a previously clean state and free of malware. Another important step once the backup is complete is to process another scan of your restored files to check that all the recovered data is clean and that there are no more malware files.

Step 6: Change passwords and secure your accounts

After you have restored your data, it is mandatory to change all your passwords because some of them may have leaked to cybercriminals when the computer was infected. If you don't want to change all your passwords, pay attention and change at least those most important for you, like email accounts, online banking, social media, and other accounts where you store information. A tip we can give you is always using strong passwords with at least 16 characters, including special characters, numbers, and capital letters. You can also start using password managers to store them there, and you will also be able to change them a lot easier in case an unexpected event happens.

Step 7: Update software and enable automatic updates.

To prevent future malware infections, ensure all your applications and antivirus software are updated with the latest security updates. It would be very useful if you enabled automatic updates related to your macOS and other software to have peace of mind that you would be protected against all known security threat vulnerabilities.

Step 8: Practice safe browsing habits

Lastly, it is critical to practice and learn safe browsing habits to reduce the risk of exposing yourself again to different viruses and malware software. Pay attention when opening websites, clicking on links, downloading files, or opening emails, especially where files are attached. Another useful tip we can provide is to start using ad blockers to prevent malicious websites from popping up and automatically stop drive-by downloads.

Conclusion

This article mentioned the emerging need to use an additional antivirus program when using a Mac computer because, as we discussed, the built-in protection is not strong enough to deal with modern, advanced, and sophisticated threats. Furthermore, we gave tips and assistance for looking for the right features and tools that a robust antivirus program for Mac should provide you with. As we spend more and more time on the internet related to our everyday activities, we need to be one step ahead of the cyber threats that are stalking us around every corner and waiting for the right time to attack us in case of system vulnerability.

We have provided the best option on the market for receiving robust cybersecurity combined with backup and cloud options, which gives you peace of mind your computers and other devices are protected. The solution against advanced threats is Acronis True Image. This protection software will provide you with complete cybersecurity that will cover you in every cyberattack scenario.

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About Acronis

A Swiss company founded in Singapore in 2003, Acronis has 15 offices worldwide and employees in 50+ countries. Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud is available in 26 languages in 150 countries and is used by over 20,000 service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses.

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