Needless to say, any Mac OS has built-in protection against computer viruses but it doesn’t mean that your device cannot be infected. Lately, the popularity of hacking Mac computers and other devices has increased, and hackers create various viruses to download to your Mac and get control over it.
In our article, we will review the main signs of spyware on your computer and provide you with a simple guide on spyware removal. Keep reading to protect your Mac from viruses and get some tips on how to save your personal data if a virus already attacks the computer.
How Does Spyware Work?
You have to understand that unlike malware, spyware does not alter any operations on your computer and runs as a legitimate program. In this way, it monitors your activities and keeps a record on a target computer, and the hacker gets all the needed information easily. Needless to say, it destroys your security because any personal data on your Mac, including bank cards, passwords, and other important data can be used by cybercriminals.
Follow these simple but very effective steps that will help you to remove spyware from your device:
- Download and install anti-spyware software. With these programs, you will be able to check your Mac for viruses and identify if it has any spyware on it. Besides, this software can be helpful in detecting and blocking any virus that is trying to infect your device. We suggest setting an automatic scan regularly, so your operating system will be checked following a schedule.
- Make sure your OS is updated regularly. Apple constantly creates updates to increase the security for Mac users. Do not ignore alerts that inform you about updating your system. This will help you to keep your Mac protected from viruses without problems.
- Make backups of your files and make copies of any important information. Of course, if spyware appears on your computer, it can damage, destroy, or steal personal data. That’s why you should make copies of all the important files and store them on an external hard drive.
- Format and restore your Mac to delete spyware. Sometimes when spyware has deeply attacked your system, the best decision is to format your computer’s hard drive and reinstall the operating system. Of course, this is the last option you can do when any other ways are not effective.
How Does Spyware Get on My Computer?
Usually, PUA (potentially unwanted apps) have websites where they can be downloaded. But sometimes, they can be installed on your device through adverts. That’s why it’s important to visit only safe sites and download any programs only from well-trusted sources. Avoid websites that offer free downloading of popular software because you may get a program with built-in spyware. The careless behavior of computer users often leads to viruses and problems. Here is the list of things you should avoid:
- Do not use sites with their own downloaders and torrents. It’s always safe to use official sources to avoid spyware.
- Never click annoying adverts when you visit any unknown sites because this is the most common way spyware gets on your Mac.
- Check and delete all the extensions of your browser you never use, and do the same with programs on the Mac.
- Get a good antivirus program to check your device and delete any viruses fast and easy.
We hope that our tips were useful and with you safe and easy work on your Mac without problems!