2 ms·

Second one's a trojan. First one's a worm; it doesn't actually infect files or disks the way viruses did "back in the day". It relies on tricking the user into

Second one's a trojan. First one's a worm; it doesn't actually infect files or disks the way viruses did "back in the day". It relies on tricking the user into executing a program when the user is not expecting to be executing a program. Compare to Windows worms that run automatically, or viruses for Microsoft platforms that infect files that are commonly shared. I repeat my statement that you don't need anti-virus on the Mac. You simply need to have common sense. I don't think it's too naive of a viewpoint. There are legitimate security concerns on the Mac, just as there are on other operating systems. My point was that you don't need cpu-cycle-sucking memory-resident antivirus programs the way you do on Windows.

Jem 18y ago
Worm, trojan, whatever - I didn't read the links, I left that for you to do :) > You simply need to have common sense. I ran Windows ME (of all things) for several years with no AV, using just common sense. So, you don't "need" AV in Windows, but I would definitely recommend it. Although I agree with what you're getting at, both your original comment and this one seems to be relying heavily on stereotypes more than actual fact. That's what I think is naive.
- wallflower 18y ago
  Microsoft is getting better when it comes to default lockdown modes (Vista) but I believe Administrator by default is the reason why Conficker et al and botnets exist. I can't think of any good reason why the average home user needs to run as Administrative user, other than convenience. I have to "administer" my dad's old computer and I gave him a Limited User account. Yes, he complains about not being to install some software his friends email but no viruses, no spyware. Cuts down on support calls and unnecessary trips home.