For a long time, people recognized Apple computers as the safer alternative to the Microsoft machines. After all, while Microsoft users were frequently plagued with viruses and malware, the Macs could securely surf the web without even the need for an anti-virus program. But today, this is no longer the reality for Mac users, and more and more Apple products are being brought into our Seattle stores for data recovery or malware removal. So what gives?
Unfortunately, the supposed impenetrability of the Macintosh OS was always a myth. It is accurate to say that it is a very well-made system, of course; Apple products are more difficult to infect, and generally require more error on the part of the user to contact a virus. However, every system has its faults, and no computer that is connected to the internet is entirely immune to malware.
The reason that Macs enjoyed such a long period of apparent immunity is large that they were not as popular as Microsoft products. A virus is a computer program and, like any other program, it needs to be compatible with the system that it runs on. It, therefore, made more sense for hackers to build viruses for Windows, knowing that they would be able to target far more computers for their effort.
That era ended when Apple products took off. The popularity of the iPod brought attention to Mac computers in countries that had never heard of them before, and the new tablets and iPhones have been fanning this fire ever since. At last, Macs are widespread and internationally recognized enough to be worthy of the attention of unscrupulous people, and these unscrupulous people have already jumped on the opportunity.
If you own an Apple computer, make sure that you are utilizing a proper anti-virus program. Even your iPod touch or iPhone can be infected (though this is generally only a significant risk if you “jailbreak” your device). Search the web for a Mac-compatible security program, or consult eBits for more information on malware protection and removal.
