Antivirus on Mac

optimus · 23 Oct 2018 at 09:55

Does anyone run AV on their Mac? If so what?

ChrisD. · 23 Oct 2018 at 10:26

Never bothered, don't see any reason to either.

Feek · 23 Oct 2018 at 10:29

My opinion is that the default security that comes built into MacOS is better than the built in security that comes with Windows but still many many people say that there’s no need to add an additional layer of AV or protection to Windows.

I don’t run any AV software on my Macs.

I have no issues with what anyone does or recommends, I base my feelings on what I’m happy with and would encourage everyone to do whatever they’re comfortable with.

iMacMart · 24 Oct 2018 at 14:17

I've had Macs for year, iMac, Macbook Pros, currently an Air and never felt the need to have AV but like Feek said it's personal choice

visibleman · 30 Oct 2018 at 21:36

From a personal computer POV, the biggest concern is malware, so opt for Malwarebytes for Mac. And use an AV if you want to - best case scenario it catches something MacOS related, worse case it prevents you passing on infected files to others.

Xprotect and GateKeeper is fine but unfortunately it can be exploited and bypassed.

If you want to know more then keep an eye on Thomas Reed's twitter and published articles. Plus the MacAdmins Slack (#security channel) has a wealth of info.

As Feek mentions, it's entirely your choice but this is just my two pennies after spending a few years managing Mac's for enterprises.

Combat squirrel · 2 Dec 2018 at 21:09

Mac viruses and malware is on the increase massively.....it's becoming more of a targeted system these days.

I run total Internet security by bit defender.

Deleted member 77746 · 3 Dec 2018 at 00:05

I haven’t really installed any av on Mac but it’s up to you really.

I restore every so often as it doesn’t take long as I don’t really install much software and there’s no data I keep anyway. If you prefer too just install one.

beachBOYken · 3 Dec 2018 at 14:17

Not installed any AV or security software at all on my mac and have had it for nearly 3 years.

snapdragon69 · 24 Dec 2018 at 12:52

I haven't in 27 years and never had a problem. Just don't download random apps and plugins and install them.
I used ClamXAV which is open Source but that was on Apple servers serving hundreds of Networked Mac Home Folders so that the users couldn't harbour files dangerous to Windows colleagues..

Phate · 26 Dec 2018 at 10:57

I have Malwarebytes installed and tempted to pay for a license but otherwise, nope.