How to Disable HowToDisable
Related Articles
To disable antivirus on your Mac, first open the menu bar and find the app icon for your antivirus program. Next, click on the antivirus icon, and you may see terms like “Disable,” “Stop,” or “Turn Off.” Disable your antivirus program if it asks for confirmation. Alternatively, you can access the app’s menu bar icon by clicking the arrow in the upper right corner.
Malware development is easier than before
While malware development is not as difficult as it was a decade ago, there are some unique concepts to learn. Even if it is a challenging field, the fundamentals are the same as for any other type of programming. Malware development is relatively simple compared to other types of programming, and malware that performs simple tasks is still considered malicious. On the other hand, malware that performs advanced behaviors, such as anti-virus evasion or analysis obfuscation, requires a more difficult learning curve.
Mac users are attractive targets for criminals
As Mac users have steadily grown in popularity, so have threats from cyber-criminals. While Windows machines have historically been the target of malicious software, Mac users have become an increasingly attractive target as the number of Macs grows. As such, businesses and individuals need to be cautious and educated about internet scams. In addition, Mac users should take the time to learn how to identify illegitimate sites. The good news is that the majority of these threats do not involve malicious software.
Currently, there are new ways to attack Mac devices, such as leveraging pre-built malware. Many cybercriminals have started building malware “franchises” that enable them to attack a large number of victims and share profits on the back end. While ransoming a single device may not be of much financial value to a professional cybercriminal, it can become financially lucrative to own hundreds of franchisees. And the opportunity to steal money from thousands of users may attract even the most lone-wolf hackers.
Even though Mac computers are relatively safe, there is no way to completely eliminate the risk of malware. Cybercriminals have increasingly diversified their tactics and are now targeting Mac users. Although Apple has a robust security program that protects its users, there are still threats. A recent virus spread on social networking sites known as “Boonana” created havoc on a large number of Macs. The virus also makes Macs vulnerable to malware.
Macs are less secure than Windows
While it’s true that fewer malware programs target Macs than Windows PCs, the fact remains that Macs are still a prime target for cyber criminals. The Flashback Trojan, for example, affected more than 700,000 Mac users last year, and those who didn’t install antivirus software discovered that they were vulnerable. Now, more than ever, Mac users are realizing the need for better protection, and installing anti-malware programs.
Despite Apple’s closed platform, security threats exist on the Mac OS. While Macs are less vulnerable to system vulnerabilities than Windows, malware still targets Macs. Apple’s operating system also enables encryption. Once encrypts your data, it looks like random characters, and is only readable by a user who knows how to decrypt it. In addition, Apple’s newer Macs contain custom processors called M1 chips, which reduce the risk of viruses.
While it’s true that Macs are less vulnerable to malware than Windows, malware developers still have to decide which platform to target. Because Windows is more popular than macOS, malware developers have a larger audience to attack. Because macOS is less popular, however, fewer malware threats exist. This is known as security through obscurity. But, with more people using Windows, this isn’t to say that the Mac is not vulnerable.
