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Macs and Viruses
Well put simply yes, a Mac can get a virus. But the likelihood? Well that's a different matter. It's a little like a football team being 2 goals up in the last minute. Could they lose? Yes, but it's unlikely.Mac OS operating systems are built on the Unix kernel - one of the oldest and safest operating systems you can get. One of its strengths is that Mac isn't the biggest show in town - that honour goes to Microsoft Windows.
As most computers are Windows, operating it is a much bigger and easier target. It also increases the likelihood of things spreading too. With that in mind, most viruses work in Windows not in OS and most of the tools to construct viruses are in Windows too - so Mac OS X keeps its head down and as a result isn't too often troubled by viruses.
But things are changing ....
Apple's market share has grown and so the viruses have started raising their heads. Many bloggers made note of a change in Apple's OS X marketing in 2012. Gone was a commitment that Mac OS X wasn't susceptible to viruses and now in its place is a statement that its built in defences "keep you safe from unknowingly downloading malicious software on your Mac".Stories have abounded of Trojan viruses affecting Macs and it seems things might be changing.
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Macs and viruses: the good news
Right now though a Mac virus is rare and this creates a big plus point. Despite leading brands like Kaspersky suggesting that Apple is heading for a fall, most Macs do not require anti-virus software and so they are free from the churning into action of a Windows based machine, checking the coast is clear before you can get started.Safety first
However the smart Mac user will still want to act safely when using the internet and protecting against the malware that's out there. In February 2013 the tenth 'Safer Internet Day' will take place and Mac users will be involved.This year the theme is “Online rights and responsibilities”, championing the slogan "Connect with respect”. The reality of online bullying and the aggressive nature of some people towards your private information provide a reminder that being online needs a safe approach.
Simple, Mac compatible anti-virus software now exists which provides an extra wall of defense. The choice is varied and it's well worth a look. Mac users also need to continue to surf safely, to think first before downloading and to always check who an email is from before opening it. Acting wisely is both Mac OS X and Windows compatible in 2013.
Alex Johnson is a freelance writer, covering topics such as specialising in Internet Security and Technology in Education. She is an advocate of safer internet causes for children and adults and writes for knowthenet.