Writing for The Seattle Times , Glenn Fleishman notes that Mac users aren’t immune to viruses. The problem of virus infestation is certainly more pervasive on the Windows platform, but it’s not unique — Mac software can get viruses too. Fleishman has written a three column series to examine the problem in more depth, and offer Mac users ways they can protect themselves against such harm.
Fleishman offered some basic information to neophytes who may have heard of computer viruses but don’t know what they are or how they work. He explained that viruses, worms and Trojan Horses could afflict computers by hiding inside files, documents or software programs that users attempt to open or run on their machines. “Files tend to arrive through our own devices, when we mount or insert a floppy disk or other removable disk, like a Zip; receive them via e-mail from someone we know (no candy from strangers, please); or download items from a Web site,” said Fleishman.
Fleishman noted four major packages for the Mac that offer virus protection — Intego VirusBarrier, Norton Anti-Virus for Macintosh (NAV) from Symantec, McAfee Virex, and Sophos Anti-Virus. Good virus software should scan compressed files and keep an eye on how applications work, as well, posited Fleishman. They should also be unobtrusive.
“I also find that it’s hardly a problem: It reminds me of my vulnerability, and I don’t notice that it takes any more time to carry out tasks,” said the author.