Apple - Mac OS X Snow Leopard: Defense against viruses and malware

Mac OS X doesn't get PC viruses. And its built-in defenses help keep you safe from other malware without the hassle of constant alerts and sweeps.

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With virtually no effort on your part, Mac OS X offers a multilayered system of defenses against viruses and other malicious applications, or malware. (Malware Search, MacScan) For example, it prevents hackers from harming your programs through a technique called "sandboxing" - restricting what actions programs can perform on your Mac, what files they can access, and what other programs they can launch. Other automatic security features include Library Randomization, which prevents malicious commands from finding their targets, and Execute Disable, which protects the memory in your Mac from attacks.

The 64-bit applications in Snow Leopard are even more secure from hackers and malware than the 32-bit versions. That's because 64-bit applications can use more advanced security techniques to fend off malicious code.

Security Advice - The Mac is designed with built-in technologies that provide protection against malicious software and security threats right out of the box. However, since no system can be 100 percent immune from every threat, antivirus software may offer additional protection. (Antivirus software for Mac)

Always on the alert.

Innocent-looking files downloaded over the Internet may contain dangerous malware in disguise. That's why files you download using Safari, Mail, and iChat are screened to determine if they contain applications. If they do, Mac OS X alerts you, then warns you the first time you open one. You decide whether to open the application or cancel the attempt. And Mac OS X can use digital signatures to verify that an application hasn't been changed since it was created.

Stay up to date. Automatically.

When a potential security threat arises, Apple responds quickly by providing software updates and security enhancements that can be downloaded automatically and installed with a click. Apple works with the incident response community, including the Forum of Incident Response and Security Teams (FIRST) and the FreeBSD Security Team, to proactively identify and quickly correct operating system vulnerabilities. In addition, Apple cooperates closely with organizations such as the Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Center (CERT/CC).

Easy to customize.

With Mac OS X, it's easy to customize and use security features. Setting up secure file sharing, for example, involves a quick trip to System Preferences. FileVault lets you encrypt all the files in your home folder with just a few clicks and a password of your choosing. The firewall comes preconfigured to block online intruders, but it's easy to make whatever changes you want.

Exercise parental control.

As a parent, you want your kids to have a safe and happy experience on the computer. Mac OS X keeps an eye out even when you can't. With a simple setup in Parental Controls preferences, you can manage, monitor, and control the time your kids spend on the Mac, the sites they visit, and the people they chat with.

Don't go phishing.

Phishing is a form of fraud in which online thieves try to acquire sensitive information such as user names, passwords, and credit card details by creating fake websites that look like legitimate companies. The antiphishing technology in Safari protects you from such scams by detecting these fraudulent websites. If you visit a suspicious site, Safari disables the page and displays an alert warning you about its suspect nature.

Surf safely.

Mac OS X makes it easy to stay safe online, whether you're checking your bank account, sending confidential email, or sharing files with friends and coworkers. Features such as Password Assistant help you lock out identity thieves who are after personal data, while built-in encryption technologies protect your private information and communications.

Security without the hassle.

Mac OS X won't slow you down with constant security alerts and sweeps. Every Mac ships with a secure configuration so you don't have to worry about understanding complex settings. Just turn your Mac on and start working. When you need to be aware of something, it will let you know. And if you want to change the security configuration, just open System Preferences and make any adjustments.