Many Mac users are proud to say that they chose this platform because of the absence of viruses and malware on it. However, is it true? Windows users can only envy the lack of need to install antivirus software, allegedly characteristic of Apple’s operating system.
There are mixed opinions on this issue on the Internet. Some advanced users claim that it is necessary to protect all devices with Internet access from malicious software – not only computers and laptops but also smartphones and tablets. For others, everything is much simpler, as they claim that the Mac platform itself is already well-protected and does not need additional support in the form of virus protection programs. But what about appreciators of Apple products who seek the best malware removal for Mac on the web? Let’s find out what to do if you have detected malware or other cyber-threats on your iMac or MacBook.
Are There Any Viruses for Mac at All?
Let us get straight to the point – viruses and malicious software for Mac undoubtedly exist, and the integrated protection of Apple’s operating system is not so reliable. The thing is, malware for Mac is not as widespread as for Windows, and it is much more challenging to infect the computer or any other device equipped with macOS. Besides, operating system developers from Apple are working promptly to fix system vulnerabilities, while applications from the Mac App Store are carefully checked before release.
As a result, for a more or less experienced macOS user, the probability of infection is minimal. You cannot infect the system with a virus or a malware program just by surfing the Internet via the browser or opening an email with a dangerous attachment. The user will have to grant the virus rights to work with system files or access their personal information manually. In the process, the users will have to go through several dialog boxes and enter the administrator password. It is hard to believe that this can be done accidentally, without understanding what is happening.
How Your Mac Gets Infected with Viruses and Malware
Harmful programs and viruses aimed at attacking macOS are created in such a way as to persuade the user to personally install unwanted adware or spyware and give it access to system files. For this purpose, spam, banner ads to redirect users to fake sites, and pages with a fake virus scanner, which tells you that your Mac is infected, are used. The goal of such a false alarm is to make a person believe that their computer is infected with a virus or malicious software. The victim is offered to solve the problem effectively by installing a certain “antivirus.” In fact, this offered virus protection program is the virus that is being “detected.” A gullible user installs the downloaded software and gives it all the necessary permissions. It seems logical that the antivirus needs full rights to work effectively. As a result, hackers get full access to the system and the user’s personal and banking details.
What To Do If You’ve Detected Malware or Cyber-Threats on Your Mac
Once you have discovered some suspicious programs on your MacBook or iMac or experienced cyber-attacks, you will undoubtedly want to erase them from your device. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is specialized malware removal tools. Nonetheless, before resorting to such utilities, you may first remove malicious software installed on your Apple computer or laptop. After doing so, check your built-in browser and get rid of any unwanted browser extensions.
Removing Malware from Safari
To clear your standard macOS browser of suspicious programs, follow the next algorithm:
- Open the Safari browser on your MacBook/iMac and click on the “Safari” section in the menu bar. Select “Preferences” from the drop-down list.
- Choose the “Extensions” tab on the appeared window. Find the plugin that you don’t recognize and press the “Uninstall” button.
- It is highly recommended to set Google as the default search engine. To do this, select the “General” tab and enter the web address in the “Homepage” field.
Removing Malware using Specialized Apple Tools
The Internet is replete with malware removal programs, as well as a reliable antivirus software that you can use to get rid of cyber-threats detected on your Mac. Pick out the most appropriate utility for yourself, download and install it on your MacBook or iMac to protect your device in the future.
Here you go with practical tips on removing malware from your Mac. Stay safe and keep your gadgets secure, making cyber-security a top priority for protecting your privacy.