Mac, Linux Programs

Anti-spyware for alternative operating systems

Experts disagree about the need for anti-spyware software on Macintosh and Linux systems. Most spyware and adware is written to exploit Windows. Apple claims that its newer, UNIX-based systems are secure, and the company encourages users to download updates often. In the article "The 10 Biggest Myths of IT Security" (July 20, 2006), the staff of Dark Reading say, "Just because you're a Linux or Mac person sipping coffee in your server room on Patch Tuesdays doesn't mean you're immune from exploits. Nothing is bulletproof these days." Allen Wilson, director of research for SecureWorks, agrees that "nothing is 100 percent safe." Several experts make the case that Apple wouldn't be offering frequent security fixes if its operating system didn't have breaches.

Norton Internet Security 4.0 for Macintosh (*Est. $80) is a suite of applications that includes spyware protection. Macworld's Jim Dalrymple recommends installing a program like Norton given the increasing popularity of the Mac operating system. Intego sells several security programs, including NetBarrier X5 (*Est. $45), which includes an antispyware component. MacScan 2.6 (*Est. $30) is a standalone Macintosh anti-spyware program. We haven't seen any reviews for the latest version, but last year's release got mostly unfavorable feedback.

Linux users can find free programs through Linux support vendors, user groups and bulletin boards. The University of Virginia offers helpful information in the article "UNIX/Linux Security Best Practices."