Should I be using an anti-virus program and if so, what is recommended?
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Gayle Mullan
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Should I Use Anti-Virus Software?
Comments: 4 Responses to “Should I Use Anti-Virus Software?”
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No. First, macOS has built-in anti-malware provided by Apple. They regularly update it with new anti-malware definitions and protections. Most third-part anti-virus software simply takes your money and they scans your Mac for Windows-based malware or Mac malware long-ago prevented by macOS updates. In cases where new malware comes up, they are "trojans," not viruses. Apple's security updates usually come before any third-party ones anyway.
All you need to do on a Mac is to follow three rules: Don't install things from sites you don't trust, keep your Mac up-to-date, and stay informed. I have a video about this here: Do Macs Need Anti-Virus Software? And here is a page about the three rules.
I will not comment on which product to use or whether MacWorld is right or if Gary is right but MacWorld released a "Best antivirus for Mac: Protect yourself from malicious software" piece on April 19, 2018.
https://www.macworld.com/article/3263722/software/best-antivirus-for-mac.html
Advanced Mac Cleaner has invaded my MacBook High Sierra 10.13.4.
It offers to scan my system to clean over 700 items. Please I would like to remove this software. It appears each day when I switch on. There is a 'no thanks' option which works but next day there it is again.
Thanks
John: Sounds like you have installed a trojan, probably disguised as some other app. Be careful what you install on your Mac and only install software from sites you can trust!
To get rid of this nasty piece of malware, take it to the Genius Bar and they can do it for you. Or if you feel you are up to the task, you can Google "remove advanced mac cleaner" and a number of sites has lists of steps you can take to remove each piece.