What's a good anti-malware software for a M1 Mac?

[AdequateAspergus]

Hi everyone,

I use my Mac in an environment full of Windows machines. I'm always careful online, but I also have GAD and I'd like to add a layer of security for some peace of mind. What I'm looking for is an anti-malware software that doesn't constantly run in the background and that I could just launch once in a while for a quick scan of the machine. I see that BitDefender has an antivirus on the App Store. Is it any good?

Thanks

 

[Technerd108]

There are several threads in this forum on this issue. That being said a lot of people will say one of two things, you don't need it or you do. So you aren't going to get a clear answer.

I have used Windows for many years and understand the mentality of always needing anti-malware software.

The design of MacOS is very different from Windows and the only way a virus or Malware can get on your Mac if if you install it yourself. So there are a lot of websites that will download a DMG file and tell you to update-DON'T! If you only update your software from Apple, Apple App Store, or from a vendor you trust then you will never get Malware.

What can happen on any platform is Hacking your system and any computer connected to a network is vulnerable no matter the platform.

I do not use any anti-malware software for my Mac and I make sure the firewall is enabled and use best practices as I mentioned and seem pretty safe. If you want the extra layer of security you can do so but as long as your Mac is updated I don't think you really need it. YMMV.

Get the free version of Malwarebytes. It doesn't run unless you initiate a scan.

 

[K two]

Keep X-Protect and MRT current and you'll be fine. SilentKnight facilitates. https://eclecticlightdotcom.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/silentknight118.zip A safe essential app.

 

[KaliYoni]

I'd like to add a layer of security for some peace of mind.

Here are some suggestions for managing privacy and security on your computer:

Level 1 (foundation)

• Anti-virus (I use Sophos)
• Anti-malware (I use Malwarebytes)
• Firefox browser with ad blocking and Javascript blocking add-ons (I use AdBlock Plus and NoScript) for general web browsing. I keep Safari relatively stock and only use it with a very small number of trusted websites.

Level 2 (good to have if you don't mind the convenience vs. security tradeoffs)

• Little Snitch (monitor outgoing Internet connections, essentially a reverse firewall)
• RansomWhere (anti-ransomware monitor)
• SilentKnight (utility for easily checking Apple's own security measures in macOS for updates)

Another action you can take is to set up a non-Admin user account for daily use. Then you only need to log-in as an Administrator when you are actively doing troubleshooting, installations, or maintenance tasks (see: https://forums.macrumors.com/thread...n-administrator-account.2327558/post-30700893).

Also see https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/security-protection-on-mac-how.2308465/post-30660294 and https://forums.macrumors.com/thread...curity-suite-for-macosx.2310577/post-30375113 for more info on X-Protect and MRT.

 

[jaduffy007]

Here are some suggestions for managing privacy and security on your computer:

Level 1 (foundation)

• Anti-virus (I use Sophos)
• Anti-malware (I use Malwarebytes)
• Firefox browser with ad blocking and Javascript blocking add-ons (I use AdBlock Plus and NoScript) for general web browsing. I keep Safari relatively stock and only use it with a very small number of trusted websites.

Level 2 (good to have if you don't mind the convenience vs. security tradeoffs)

• Little Snitch (monitor outgoing Internet connections, essentially a reverse firewall)
• RansomWhere (anti-ransomware monitor)
• SilentKnight (utility for easily checking Apple's own security measures in macOS for updates)

Another action you can take is to set up a non-Admin user account for daily use. Then you only need to log-in as an Administrator when you are actively doing troubleshooting, installations, or maintenance tasks (see: https://forums.macrumors.com/thread...n-administrator-account.2327558/post-30700893).

Also see https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/security-protection-on-mac-how.2308465/post-30660294 and https://forums.macrumors.com/thread...curity-suite-for-macosx.2310577/post-30375113 for more info on X-Protect and MRT.

Great suggestions, but even better is your username!!

 

[AdequateAspergus]

Thanks for the replies everyone! This is super helpful.

 

[Fishrrman]

Download MalwareBytes and run it:

Cyber Security Software and Anti-Malware | Malwarebytes

Protect your home and business PCs, Macs, iOS and Android devices from the latest cyber threats and malware, including ransomware.

www.malwarebytes.com

IMPORTANT:
Select the "home" option.
It's a FREE download

IMPORTANT:
You DO NOT NEED TO BUY A SUBSCRIPTION to run MalwareBytes.
It will run FOREVER IN FREE MODE.
When you open it, IGNORE the button to "Upgrade Now" or "Activate License".
Just click "Scan".
Again, you DO NOT have to buy the pay-for version!

You CAN pay to register it if you wish. The cost is very reasonable.
Do this, and it will offer malware scanning/protection "in real time", continuously.

The free version only runs when you launch it manually.