The Truth About Spyware on macOS: Understanding Types and Protecting Your Privacy

Published: 10th of February, 2023

There's a common myth that macOS is immune to spyware, malware, and other types of cyberattacks. However, this is not the case. Macs can and do get infected, putting your privacy at risk. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the types of malware and how your Mac can get infected. We'll also provide you with the steps to stay safe and keep your privacy intact.

Types of Malware

Malware, or malicious software, comes in many forms, including:

Adware: Displays advertisements and may hijack your browser search results.

Bot: Automatically or semi-automatically performs actions such as auto-clicking advertisements, attacking other systems or websites, and installing other software.

Spyware: Monitors your activities without your knowledge, collecting information such as what you type, which websites you visit, and transmitting your documents and pictures. It may also listen to your microphone or watch through your webcam.

Trojan: Software that disguises its actual purpose, such as a "free" game that installs spyware or a pirate version of a product that installs a bot.

Root-kit: Hides itself on your machine, making detection and removal difficult. Root-kits are often used to hide spyware/trojan/bot-like activity.

Virus: Capable of copying itself to spread to other machines. Usually modifies applications or scripts, activating the virus when run on another machine.

Worm: Similar to a virus, but spreads by exploiting operating system vulnerabilities over the network.

Ransomware: A type of malware that encrypts your files and demands payment, holding your files hostage.

Infection Vectors

There are two main ways malware can infect your Mac:

Misleading the user: The easiest and most common form, works by tricking the user into installing the malware themselves. For example, visiting a website that says you need to install a plugin or update to view the content, or downloading "cracked" or "pirate" software.

Exploitation: Installed via exploits that take advantage of bugs or vulnerabilities in your existing software. A successful exploit may allow malware to be installed with little to no interaction on your part.

Staying Safe

Here are the steps to keep your Mac secure and protect your privacy:

1. Run a modern and up-to-date web browser, and don't install "plugins" or "updates" to view web content.
2. Don't disable or bypass the built-in security mechanisms, such as System Integrity Protection and the security and privacy settings in System Preferences.
3. Only install legitimate software from a trusted source, such as the Mac App Store or directly from the developer, and keep it up-to-date.
4. Keep the built-in firewall enabled.
5. Keep your apps up-to-date and install the latest Operating System updates from Apple.
6. Consider running a network-level filter/blocker, such as iAntiSpy, to block ads, malicious downloads and phishing sites.

Do not change these types of settings!

In Summary

By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of your Mac getting infected with malware and protect your privacy.

Next time I'll show you what to do if you think your Mac has been infected by malware.

  ✌ Charlie