most people think apple devices are free from viruses and malware. even though macOS is one of the most secured Operating systems but unfortunately it is not true all apple devices can be infected with viruses and malware including (iPhone,iPad,iMac, MacBook, Mac Mini, and more). back then hackers were putting more energy into hacking windows machines since had more users than apple but now they are targeting Apple users since their market keeps rising not all threats that affect macOS are viruses most of them are different types of malware but since the term viruses are popular than malware people often call most threat that affects macOS virus
online threats can affect Macs?
below are some of the common threats which affect macOS
Ransomware
this type of malware is used by hackers to take important files and demand payment for them to release the file
adware
this malware takes over your computer and flood it with endless ads and pop-ups which slow down your device’s performance, track you and also harm your device
spyware
this is malicious spying software that is used to spy on browsers, keystrokes, and other personal information for either identity theft or it is been sold to third parties
rootkits
this is a piece of malware that attempts to infect critical operating system files on the host. a rootkit is not really common macOS. this is not a common malware attack on macOS
phishing
this involves a hacker faking to be a trusted source but attempts to deliver a malicious payload or gather sensitive information such as username, passoword
virus
this is a piece of malicious code written to distrupt the normal smoothness of the computer. this software must be propagated through a definite user action. meaning it normally can not spread it
PUPs
Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) this usually comes with other softwares you download. including free browser add ons which enable browsers to play music, videos or games using java. this can end up in identity theft, data loss
Security features of MacOS
XProtect – this is a built in security feature which checks downloaded apps if they contain any known malware
Malware Removal Tool – this removes malware that has made it way into your system files. it automatically removes malware detected by xprotect
Gatekeeper – this blocks malware apps
Apple’s Security & Privacy – this is apple not allowing the installation of third-party software unless it’s from the App Store or identified developers, as per the Security and Privacy settings.
How to tell if your Mac has a virus
below are signs that when you see on your macOs it shows that it is infected
Slower performance: when your mac is slow for no reason it might be part of a botnet, this is a global connection of computers used for minig bitcoins, perform a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) on a website and all of these use the cpu. slow performance can be due to overloaded storage so make sure you deleted unwanted files
Unwanted ads and pop up – adware is affecting more macs. if you see ads at places where ads dont show or ads showing even when your mac is not connected to the internet then your mac maybe infected
Your Mac overheats: when your mac heats up even when you are performing basic task on the machine then it means malware has affected your machine
Strange behavior: when your browser redirect you to spammy sites or your mac freezes, crashes frequently then it maybe infected with a malware.
reduced storage: if you notice that new files or apps have been downloaded without your permission then yor mac is infected
Tips for Protecting Your Mac
the truth is macs can be infected by malwares even though Apple is doing a good job of protecting against common security threats, but persistent cybercriminals can still infect Apple devices. Here are some best practice tips to help keep your Macbook safe:
Download and install apps from official sources only
your Mac’s security and privacy settings are set to allow App Store apps and identified developers By default. For extra security, you can only allow apps from the App Store. To do this, open System Preferences, then click Security & Privacy and then General. Click the lock icon and enter your password to make changes. Select the App Store under the “Allow apps to be downloaded from” heading.
Keep your operating system and installed software up to date.
always make sure you download the latest update whenever you get an alert.
Use a VPN when connecting to public or untrustworthy Wi-Fi networks.
VPN hide your original IP address and replace it with an IP address in a completely different place. This means hackers and websites cannot track your connection and find your exact location, which makes you semi-anonymous online. A VPN also encrypts your browsing data. Even if hackers can spy on you, they can’t see what you’re doing.
Keep the firewall enabled.
this encrypt your online activities
avoid click on pop up or virus warning and dont ignore the notification of gatekeeper. always treat emails and download links with causion some emails may contain a link which will phish you