How to Scan for Viruses on Your Mac

Do your Macs need a virus checker? Yes, they do!

Macs are also vulnerable to malicious software. Apple identified flaws in their Intel processor that point to two strains of Mac viruses. As Apple runs a lot of safety precautions, the level of security relies on your familiarity with how to scan for viruses on Mac. 

So, here are a few viruses scanning tips that you need to know: 

How to Scan for Viruses

Why is scanning for viruses on Mac necessary? Like most devices, Macs are likewise unprotected. They are vulnerable to spyware, ransomware, phishing software, adware, and trojans.

Hackers can go through your personal data, files, photos, and videos. With the dangers of viruses, you must have a secure Mac virus scanning tool. 

So how to scan for viruses on your Mac? Here's how to do it:  

• Download a reliable anti-virus software
• Start the app and find Smart Scan 
• See the summary of the virus scan
• Then click to remove any malicious files and apps

Implementing a scan for viruses will get rid of any malware of all forms. In addition, after a virus scan, it will indicate possible threats, and you can remove it immediately.

Consider Manual Virus Scanning

In truth, checking for viruses must be automatic. You should consider running a virus scan once every week as a safety precaution. Nevertheless, not all software has a great virus scanner. 

If you want to run a manual virus scanning on your Mac, here are viruses scanning tips:

• Check for browser extensions 
• Remove suspicious login items
• Delete suspicious apps
• Clear downloads and cache
• Delete any login details that appear unfamiliar

If you don't remember installing a certain app or file on your laptop, be sure to remove it immediately. You can also use anti-virus scanning software to check it out to ensure you're not removing something important.

Consider removing duplicates as well to remove not only possible viruses but also save space. Check the tips here to help you find and remove duplicates on your Mac. 

Have your Mac Protected and Virus-free

Sad to say, viruses don't dwell in a prominent place such as your computer's desktop. They could be in your favored network browser, where they can track and view what you're typing.

When you see strange websites pop up on your search bar, it's a sign that your browser might have malware. A different example is an email app or an application that is following on its patch upgrades.

If you believe one of your apps has a virus, the safe thing to do is delete and reinstall it. Usually, this works, but there are more accessible solutions possible. Clearing the app's cache must be your initial action, and be sure to remove any optional unknown files.

Unfortunately, not all viruses that linger on your computer are easy to identify. Most times, they are root documents that get your messages and passwords and send them to hackers. To completely protect yourself, only install or download apps with valid developer certifications.

Learn How to Scan for Viruses 

You are well on track to being safe and protected from viruses now. Though avoiding viruses is only a start, you also have to understand how to scan for viruses on your Mac. Follow a good measure of caution while downloading files, and only get reliable and efficient apps that can protect your Mac from all types of viruses. 

Want to know more ways you can protect your Mac or computer in general? Check out our collection of guides to learn more!