Are Macs safe from viruses?

[RV_]

Macs also need their updates. If you are one of the few who still believes they are immune to malware, this article can help.

Excerpt:

"Macs were immune to the widespread WannaCry ransomware attack, the huge cyberattack last month that targeted older versions of Windows. Before Mac users become too comfortable or smug, you should know that although Macs are less frequently the target of cyberattacks than Windows PCs, they have been attacked in the past and will undoubtedly be targeted again.

Wait, there have been Mac attacks?

Why, yes there have. Earlier this year, the same Russian hackers believed to be behind the hack of the DNC during last year's presidential election released the Xagent malware that went after Macs to steal iPhone backups. And last year, KeRanger, the first real-world ransomware to target Macs, made the rounds. Earlier attacks include Flashback in 2012 and an adware Trojan in 2013.

Why do they happen less often than PC attacks?

Two reasons, and both involve money. Hackers get more bang for their buck by targeting Windows machines for the simple fact that there are more of them. You fish where the fish are -- Windows owns a much larger percentage of market share than MacOS. Secondly, hackers often buy malware-writing tools to create their attacks because it's easier and cheaper than building malware from scratch, and there are more of these tools out there for Windows platforms. But as the above exhibits show, Macs are occasionally targeted.

OK, fine, what can I do to protect my Mac?"

The article goes on to show what you can do and explains more here: https://www.cnet.com/how-to/are-macs-safe-from-viruses/?ftag=CAD3c77551&bhid=20640562413884385817807471581031

[Aggie79-82a]

Good post.  Thanks

[RV_]

YW Aggie!