Mac Malware On The Rise

It has been reported that more Mac malware has been seen in 2017 than in any year beforehand, according to a new report from information-security firm Malwarebytes says, and one of the company’s security experts told us that Apple’s current strategies may not be enough to stop the rising tide. James, Security Specialist at ESET commented below.

James, Security Specialist at ESET: 

“MAC Malware has been steadily on the rise for some time- to be honest any machine that runs an operating system and connects to the internet or a network in any way shape or form is susceptible to malware. Windows has always been known as a malware magnet, but if you look at the ratio between windows and MAC it makes more sense to write malware for windows if you’re looking for a return on your investment.That’s not to say of course that you could increase your attack vector by pulling MAC’s into your target zone and infecting both.

Integrating the internet into your life these days is full of potential mishaps, either email or browsing has its dangers if you don’t follow common sense rules. Malware writers are adapting with the times- with software available off the shelf that can infect thousands ,with little or no effort or input from the user, being sold online for affordable prices, it’s no surprise that we see MAC infections on the rise.

Keeping safe is a good mix of various methods to not only defend against infection, but also to recover if anything actually manages to get through. Using a good regular updating multi-layered internet security product along with point-in-time backups stored offline or offsite will help you enormously. Sadly these days you also have to have your wits about you as you surf- being very cautious when clicking email or web links, and keeping your operating system and applications up to date is a must if you want to stay protected.”