How to Protect your Mac running Windows from Spyware, Adware and Viruses

Viruses, Spyware and Adware are virtually non-existent for the Mac Operating System. However, along with the release of Intel-based Apple Computers and the ability to install and run a Windows Operating System using Bootcamp or Parallels, a Mac can now be infected with many of the same viruses, adware and spyware, collectively called "malware". If your Mac computer does become infected with malware, it's most likely due to the Windows installation or bad internet browsing habits.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• An Apple computer running a Windows Operating System using Parallels or Bootcamp

1. If you're running Bootcamp or Parallels to use a Windows Operating System, first of all you will need to download and install an anti-virus program in your Windows installation. AVG Free is good, free anti-virus software.

2. Download and install spyware & adware programs Spybot Search and Destroy (also called Spybot S&D) and AdAware Free on the Windows OS.

3. Download and Install Windows Defender if you're running Mirosoft XP. Vista has this included. Internet Explorer 7 works well with Windows Defender to prevent adware and spyware from installing by themselves.

4. Scan your computer using AVG Free, Spybot & AdAware at least once a week.

5. Browse Smart! Use a more secure browser such as Firefox or Safari. Don't download anything from an untrusted source, watch out for gaming sites, be vigilant on social networking sites too.

6. Limit your Instant Messaging to people you know and keep strangers from contacting you. Don't download anything unless you're absolutely sure it's safe. This includes images.

7. Keep your email safe. If you're using Microsoft Outlook with your Windows OS installation on your Mac, install SpamBayes or another spam filter. Don't download any attachments from anyone unless you're expecting one from a friend or coworker. Disable images and your preview pane.

8. Disable Macros if you're opening a Microsoft Office document that you received from someone or somewhere else. Macro Viruses are easily transmitted from Mac to Windows computers. Keep Office updated.

9. Verify that System Restore is set up to take snapshots periodically. This will allow you to restore your system to an earlier state before your computer was infected with malware.

10. Watch out for Windows Updates. Keep your Windows Operating System installation up to date for the latest security fixes.

Tips & Warnings

• AVG and AdAware have both Paid and Free versions. Their respective sites will outline the difference, but the free versions work very well.
• The best way to prevent malware and viruses from infecting any computer is smart browsing, instant messaging and email habits.
• If you're running a Windows OS on your Mac, treat it like you would any other Windows computer. Keep up with your virus and spybot/adware scans & Windows Updates.
• Trend Micro has another free web-based Anti-Virus program called HouseCall. Install the Java Client (a small program) and you can run a scan from your browser.
• Instead of AVG Free or Trend Micro, you can buy McAfee, Norton or any other paid AntiVirus software. Just be sure to keep up your subscription and updates.
• Again, do not download anything from anyone unless you're sure it's OK. And even then make absolutely sure. If in doubt, don't download.
• If your Windows OS does become infected and AVG, Spybot S&D or Windows Defender doesn't fix the problem, use System Restore, seek professional help, or re-install the OS.

Resources

• AVG from Grisoft
• Spybot S&D
• AdAware
• Apple Safari Browser
• Opera Browser
• SpamBayes
• Parallels
• Apple Bootcamp
• Microsoft Windows Update
• Microsoft Office Update
• Windows Defender
• Trend Micro HouseCall