Antispyware/Virus for OSX?

I do have Norton to protect me from viruses got it when I got my MBP free. I just reinstalled my OS and have not put it back on as I have always been told antivirus programs on a mac just hog resources and are not necessary. True?

What about spyware, I was told this can effect macs.

Any programs to recommend?

Thanks,
Matt

 

I use the free edition of Sophos... seems to be fine and I never noticed any performance hits with it running.

 

The only thing I noticed on a couple machines was about a 7 degree temperature increase. We tested their business version as well at work, and the interface and actual control over the program and machine leaves a lot to be desired.

I use ClamXav on my machines at home.

 

I have ClamXav as well, but it doesn't give the always running protection. Sophos hasn't affected my machine at all, temperature or otherwise.... unless I manually do a local drive scan.

 

Is Sophos good for spyware as well?

 

yes

Spyware, Adware, Potentially Unwanted Applications - Security information|Sophos

 

There are so few viruses for OS X at the moment that most of the AVs being mentioned actually scan for Windows viruses, just for the sake of assuming that the Mac will pass them on in a network. AVs for OS X are not worth your time.

 

That's what I am predisposed to think as well. None of the Mac AV programs I know of let you "turn off" Windows threat functionality (to lessen resource needs), or give any information on exactly what Mac threats are being safeguarded against. I think I'll wait until Mr J. indicates my Mac needs additional safeguards.

I'm inclined to believe that Mac virus hysteria only serves to feed a burgeoning industry of pseudo virus solutions that do nothing significant but scan for user dollars. The freebies lead to costs when the user becomes or feels dependent to the point of upgrading for an extra sense of well being.

My Windows machines and networks are duly protected from my Mac, at an already great expense of dollars and CPU cycles. I don't need and additional layer with unknown real value, but certainly of real detriment. Especially when it contributes to the hysteria that makes for more entrepreneurs who will generate more Mac AV software that will be "rumored" to be necessary.

 

Thanks guys got that Sophos program! Seems to work great.