Malware comes in a variety of types, each bringing its own level of threat to the table. There are some techniques that work for particular threats and others that are better suited to different activities. Knowing how to get rid of the different types of malware on a Mac can make a lot of difference and in this article, we’ll be learning how to deal with the varying types.
Choosing an antivirus program to help
Some tools are ideal for specific actions, while others are perfect for addressing less harmful malware. In either instance, a good antivirus program can help with the vast majority of incidents, if not all. A few basic tips would be to choose a piece of software that does as much as possible and then another to cover the bases that might not be covered by the first. Without further ado, let’s get to grips with dealing with specific types of malware.
Malware
Malware is the generic term used for many types of harmful viruses that can make their way onto a Mac. The best way to deal with this type of threat is with an antivirus. An antivirus tool will have access to an extensive database of information that can identify the virus, isolate it from acting further and then get rid of it, cleaning up your Mac in the process.
Spyware
Spyware can be especially dangerous, as it will typically monitor your passwords, data that you enter and other important information that can be used to exploit your personal details. This can lead to bank account data being stolen, sold to hackers and then terrifying events ensuing. A good way to get rid of spyware is with an antivirus extension on your browser, as well as an antivirus program running on your Mac.
Adware
This unique type of malware is actually quite harmless, but it’s very intrusive to say the least. The way that it works is by tricking a user into installing it before it acts to hijack the browser, monitor the habits and behaviours of you as the user, and then collecting the information they want. This data is then sold to advertisers, who can then target you with ads. Fortunately, adware is quite simple to remove as most take on the form of extensions, which you can access via your browser’s settings and then uninstall.
Worms and trojans
These two dangerous types of malware work by installing themselves into folders, hiding, and attempting to gain control of your device. Removing them will typically need an antivirus tool to first locate then identify, and lastly remove the potentially harmful tool from your device.
Ransomware
Possibly the most terrifying type of malware, ransomware is capable of installing itself to your Mac and then locking access to it – demanding a ransom in exchange for access to be returned. It’s never a good idea to pay this ransom, as your transaction details will likely be stored by the hacker. Instead, turn to an antivirus tool, or in the worst case scenario, open your Mac without Wi-Fi access and attempt to return it to a previous state to a time before the ransomware was able to install itself.
With these protection tips, we’re sure that you’ll be able to deal with even the most extreme of malware intrusions.