Viruses

• By the end of 2005, there were 114,000 known viruses for PCs.
• In March 2006 alone, 850 new threats were detected against Windows.
• There were zero for Mac.
• While no computer connected to the Internet will ever be 100% immune from attack, Mac OS X has helped the Mac keep its clean bill of health with its UNIX foundation and security features.

Spyware & Malware

• People attempting to break into computers may disguise a malicious program as a picture, movie, or other seemingly harmless file. These are examples of spyware and malware.
• You might download such files from the web or get them via e-mail or chat. Windows allows you to download these types of files. A Mac, however, will let you know that you may be getting a wolf in sheep’s clothing. The Mac Web browser, Safari, can tell the difference between a file and a program, and alerts you whenever you’re downloading the latter.
• In addition, to minimize infiltration of your computer system, you approve changes to your system. On a Windows PC, software (both good and evil) can change the system without your even knowing about it. In order for software to significantly modify Mac OS X, you have to type in your password. You’re the decider.