Malware can sometimes end up on your system alongside legitimate software. Here are key actions you can take to check your Mac for viruses and malware: Check for unwanted applications It could mean you’re the victim of a Trojan horse or ransomware – malicious software used for extortion. Amongst the warning signs for malware, this one is the most clearcut. You are unable to access personal files and see a ransom or warning note. If your friends say they have received spam from your email or social media accounts, it could mean your Mac has been infected with malware attempting to spread itself or other malicious programs to users. Your contacts receive spam from your accounts. This could indicate scareware – a type of malware designed to trick you into installing more malware. You receive security alerts even without scanning your Mac.

This type of malware generates profits (for the perpetrator, not you) from ad clicks. This could mean you’re a victim of adware. You notice many more ads or pop-ups than usual. This could mean your browser has been hijacked and is directing your traffic to malicious third-party sites. Your browser has a new homepage or extensions you haven’t added. This could mean someone is using your machine to mine cryptocurrency or run DDoS attacks. Your Mac is operating more slowly than usual. Some types of malware can remain undetected on your machine for a while, while others are more immediately noticeable. Signs your Mac may be infected by viruses or malware A virus causes infected files to act like a virus in turn, spreading the code further across your device. Viruses often present as small programs, designed to infect other files and programs on the computer by injecting their code.

Malware refers to malicious software, such as apps which masquerade as legitimate but carry out hostile tasks such as stealing your data. In this article, the terms ‘malware’ and ‘virus’ are used, although they are different entities. While malware on Macs is relatively uncommon, the number of threats to macOS are on the rise – which makes it important to understand how to check for malware on Macs and how to remove malware from Macs.

If your computer has been infected, then your personal information and potentially your identity are at risk. It can be alarming to discover malware on your Mac.

How do i check for malware on my mac