For decades, one of the main selling features for Apple products has been its ultra-tight security features. It was almost unheard of among general users to get any form of computer virus or malware on their Apple computers and devices. Any time there was mention of significant security threats, it was always Microsoft Windows.
But not anymore.
Malware bytes released its annual report on the state of security in the digital world. And guess what? Mac threats outpaced Windows 2 by 1.
While there have always been threats out there for Apple users, it has never been this bad before. There are many reasons why the number of security threats to Apple products increased. The main one is Apple users taking their PC security for granted.
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About The Report
Anyone remotely familiar with computer security should recognize the name Malware bytes. Millions of people around the world use their anti malware software to protect computers and other devices. Along with the security data they receive from their software, they also use various other sources for their annual report.
The 2019 report takes a look at threats across iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows products. This year the main takeaway is that “threats per endpoint” on Macs have more than quadrupled since the year before. Data shows that Macs are now facing more threats than Windows at a two to one ratio.
Keep in mind that Malware bytes does tend to have a bigger Mac user base, so the stats could be slightly skewed. Regardless of the user base, it shows a real increase in malware threats to Mac users. Consumers must be aware of the rise and make sure to up their security measures.
Most Threats Are Not That Bad
Before you start panicking and swearing to throw out all your Apple devices, it is vital to know the kinds of threats you are facing. The majority of the increase is in the advertisement side of things. Most of the risks are adware related. It won’t steal your data or erase everything you have on your hard drive. It is more annoying than anything, but it can still cause problems.
Some cryptocurrency platforms became the targets of malware, and their users had malicious files downloaded onto their systems. So know that the capabilities to do damage are indeed a real threat. Cyber criminals are advancing their hacking techniques to get into your system.
Must check: 20 Best Offline Music Apps Without WiFi.
Some Threats Are Malicious
While the report does state that the majority of threats are relatively harmless, there is still reason to be concerned. As outlined above, the potential for malicious Mac malware is out there, and there is data to back it up. The report mentions that malicious Mac malware has increased every year. And that doesn’t look to change anytime soon.
Take Your Security Seriously
With the release of this report, it is telling that Mac security is not as invulnerable as it once was. Experts agree it is time that the average Mac user starts beefing up their security to keep their personal information protected.
There are many different options available, and a lot of Macs now come pre-installed with security software. And there is plenty of commercial software, including the product of the company that released the report mentioned above in the first place.
And even software that didn’t focus on malware protection before comes with features to protect users against some cyber threats. Some you may already have some means to defend yourself without you even knowing it. NordVPN, for example, which offers a virtual private network service, has a feature called CyberSec that gives you more security too. It’s available on all platforms, including macOS, and has three main functions:
- Blocking malicious websites. It is the main feature of CyberSec. It keeps an updated blacklist of known malicious sites that it denies access to.
- Avoiding botnet control. Even if you have been infected with malware, this service keeps you from becoming a bot in DDoS attacks. It can detect and end any communication with a botnet server.
- Blocking advertisements. Everyone is going to appreciate having annoying ads blocked. They pop up everywhere, and CyberSec can shut them down for you.
Keep Your Computer Safe
With the release of this new data, it is safe to say that Mac users are no longer able to take a lax attitude on security. It seems that threats towards average users are increasing every year. It means you must look into software to keep yourself protected. Take a look at premium security software; it is going to be worth every penny to keep your data and computer safe.
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- 15 Best iOS Emulators for PC (Windows & Mac).
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