Antivirus Software for Mac: Better Safe than Sorry?

For years there has been a debate whether Mac's require antivirus software, and for years die hard users and Apple execs insisted that Mac OS' are the most secure in the world and do not need antivirus software, but as Apple's market share rises so do its vulnerabilities. Apple is encouraging users to protect themselves from malware by installing antivirus software on their systems.

I wonder if the local Apple stores have gotten the antivirus memo?

According to our minimal, yet effective research, the answer is no. (Big surprise.)

In a short call to our local Apple store the salesperson we spoke with insisted that there is no need for antivirus software because all viruses are designed for PCs. "Even if someone sends you an email [with a virus] it will only affect Windows, not a Mac." The sales guy (who will remain nameless) went on to explain that Apple doesn't manufacture any antivirus software and this anti-antivirus feature is one of Mac's strongest benefits when compared to a PC.

Now, we know Apple is keeping this tidbit of information on the DL; in fact, it turns out that they've been keeping it that way for quite some time. But if I'm told in the store that I don't need antivirus software, and when I get home and find out I "should" fork out an additional $50- $100 for "just in case" security I'd be more than a little irritated. I thought that's where part of the extra cost of the Mac comes from, no need to buy antivirus software.

Of course this isn't an admission of fault in Mac Operating Systems. No, it's merely an extra precaution on behalf of the user against potential hackers. According to the support page, "Apple encourages the widespread use of multiple antivirus utilities so that virus programmers have more than one application to circumvent, thus making the whole virus writing process more difficult. Here are some available antivirus utilities."

Obviously, it isn't that big of deal yet. But I'm sure the first time a Mac crashes because of a virus or Trojan, Microsoft will be there to exploit the situation. (Because that "I'm a PC" commercial just isn't cutting it, but it is better than the Jerry Seinfeld thing. Really people, those are my only choices?)

The Apple site suggests several security options for worry-warts to choose from including Intego VirusBarrier X5, Symantec Norton Anti-Virus 11, and McAfee VirusScan for Mac. Some forum users and those in the "know" also suggest ClamXav, a free antivirus application.

*UPDATE* Apparently Apple didn’t like all the extra press and completely yanked the antivirus support pages, old and new, suggesting one purchase additional virus protection.

 I suppose Apple is now holding firm to their stance, at least publicly, that Mac’s do not require “any” additional antivirus protection. But it doesn’t keep them from selling it. Maybe the guy at the Apple store was right? OOPS. Our Bad.

We've got reviews of the best antivirus software out there, and a few more blog posts that are certified virus-free:

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