All of my Macs are set similarily. Still, due diligence is required on my part because my log in is the admin. Now that I read what you've done with your's, I'll copy your method.
Anti virus for P/C and Mac. Do you use or need them?
- Thread starter hsjd700
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Widow software is the prime target of hackers while Mac has been virtually untouched; however, software security specialists report that hackers are taking more interest in Mac OS. I use Techtool. It has maintene and repairs tools plus anti-virus software.
MikeInMI
Active member
It isn’t that Macs are invulnerable, it is just because their market share is so much smaller than windows, there are less viruses written for them. I’ve used the Intego security package for years and it regularly does identify and stop viruses. It isn’t every week, but every 1 - 3 months it stops something.
I know right... I was in two minds to post or even ask the question. We all spend a lot of money on our photography, storage, back ups, copies of our back ups etc.During the last few years, I have seen many more ransomware attacks and credential thefts; financial accounts are the top targets. What I don't know may really hurt me in the wallet. lol.
When it comes to personal computer safety, I find layered & compartmental set-up works better: router, internal LAN, offline & online, and cold storage.
Oliver
PS: I find it amusing to talk about computer safety in a photography forum, or perhaps many geeks are photographers in their alter egos.
I'm not what you call a computer geek and not too familiar with the possibility of a virus corrupting my photos. I know that's why we have back ups but, I'd rather not have that issue if there is something I can do at the front end as a prevention.
H.
Hi Patrick. I read this just after I accepted the plugins to turn on Norton Secure VPN. Just as you have stated it stopped me connecting to the internet and not just the dodgy ones eitherI've used Norton 360 for years on a couple of Macs and PCs. No issues so long as you don't turn on Norton Secure VPN on your Mac... it stops me connecting to the internet, so I guess that's pretty well protected...but. pain in the bum
I have now removed the plugins from Chrome. To your point though, this is still an issue.
Thanks to all for your feedback, good points of view from the experiences with anti virus software. As we have a subscription with Norton it will not hurt to try it for a year.
Interestingly though, my email and password (allegedly) has been identified on the dark web by Norton, when Medicare (Australian provider) had been cyber attacked and confidential details were obtained. I now keep my photos backed up and off line on a 3rd hard drive.
Interestingly though, my email and password (allegedly) has been identified on the dark web by Norton, when Medicare (Australian provider) had been cyber attacked and confidential details were obtained. I now keep my photos backed up and off line on a 3rd hard drive.
I use an old synology disc station. It switches itself on on Sunday mornings and my main disc station “sees” it and automatically backs itself to the old one. When done the old DS switches itself off. All I see is an email confirmation that the back up was successful. In the past 5+ years it’s never failed!
I recall the initial backup took 18 hours! Now it’s changes and new stuff which generally takes but a few minutes.
Norton 360 has never adversely or otherwise affected the process.
Lots of options - likely all good. I use Bitdender Premium which includes: anti-virus, prevents entering questionable sites (web protection), ad blocker, anti-tracking and VPN. This applies to all my devices: MacBook Pro, PC, iPAD, and phone.
mdingel
New member
I agree that essentials is fine, I have been using it since it came out. I think Microsoft keeps quiet about it so that the other players don't get mad and claim monopoly. I do agree with the VPN advice. Currently, most problems come from users clicking on nefarious links, especially when they are received in an email.
Alex
Member
I have been using Macs for over 10 years and have not used antivirus software. On the other hand, on my wireless network, which is a mesh setup, I have protection in the form of a malicious content filter, intrusion prevention, and a quarantine of infected devices. Likewise on my network accessible storage device (NAS), I have set up a scheduled scan using antivirus software. For the Macs, I really just avoid clicking on any link that looks at all suspect. It is my understanding that malware generally has to activated by a click in order for it to work. A VPN helps too in shielding my system both at home and while travelling.
Addendum: I also use the firewall setting and have used encryption of backups.
Addendum: I also use the firewall setting and have used encryption of backups.
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Pasiani
Active member
I use an old DELL (Windows 7) laptop which I purchased back in 2010. For the first 5 years or so I used an Anti-Virus software. No AV software since then.
I never faced any problem with viruses.
I tried a free AV software (like a probe of the paid version) but it slowed down my laptop enormously.
The best defense is being cautious.
Garfield
Well-known member
20 year heavy Mac user here: No, never felt the need for an AV program.
O
Well-known member
I buy for $30AUD Norton 360 one time annual cover each year for my PC from my local computer store or stationary store. No need for it on my Mac.
I avoid the built in hidden rip of automatic renewal trap for Norton 360 at $140 AUD, its the same product as the $30 purchase,
its also a nightmare to avoid. Their cunning these companies.
I know lots of people who have no third party security on their PCs and they're ok with their Windows security also as they are safe users on the web.
Again Normally you don't need Norton on a Mac and in cases it will slow down your Mac a little.
Here in OZ the condition with banks is you must have a reputable anti virus protection on your device or you're not going to get support if their is a issue.
They tested a case recently that the Windows security software wasn't adequate, in court the case was lost.
Bottom line, for PCs despite Windows software being pretty good now I always buy out right $30AUD, just avoid the extortionate hidden auto renewal trap.
I run one PC tower modern version for all admin, 2 Mac Towers, 2 Mac lap Tops 17 inch 13 inch.
Only an opinion
clfitz
New member
I can't comment intelligently about Mac, but I've been using Windows since 1994 and have experienced very few virus-related problems. Windows Defender is good, and has decent reviews. However, I recently gave Avast's free version a try, and ended up liking it a lot. It caught one virus (from an email attachment) that Defender let slip.
All in all, I'd say Defender is fine if you're careful. I was too trusting, and am very happy that Avast got that virus before it could do any damage. However, it could have gone the other way around, depending on which software got updated first.
Rogereh
Active member
I'm a retired corporate IT manager.'ve personally seen what viruses can do to machines and hard drives. It can be devastating to lose your files, photos, emails, contacts, and all your important items that you've saved to your machines. We were PC and Windows based, no Macs (but I've personally had a few Macs). There is a lot of bad assumptions listed here. Windows defender being adequate protection is one. It is better than nothing but does little for online and email protection. I use Norton 360 and Norton products ever since they came out. I started in this field in 1964 and was IBM trained since before hard drives were available and they were still using punched cards in huge machines that could not compete with a desktop calculator or even your phone. There is a lot of devastation and heartbreak when you lose everything. I've seen in many times...