[X4U] Re: Malware (Was: Consumer Reports)

[keith_w]

Randy B.Singer wrote:
> keith_w said:
> 
> 
>>I sort of started this sub-thread, in an oblique way, and I just 
>>downloaded the program Randy suggested, Virus Barrier X®.
>>Might as well be as free from critters as I can _before_ I install a new 
>>version of MS Office 2004. Fence the pasture before you let the new 
>>horses out!
>>
>>I did a scan of my H.D. first thing after installing it, and the enture 
>>scan took only a few minutes, so it's fast too! A good selling point.
> 
> 
> 
> Virus Barrier is a pretty impressive program, isn't it?
> 
> But before the other folks on this list start flaming me for scaring 
> folks into purchasing anti-virus software that they don't need, let me 
> once again restate my position:
> 
> I don't think that most Mac users need anti-virus software.  There are no 
> OS X-specific viruses, and though there is some OS X malware out there, 
> all of it is either easily handled without having to resort to AV 
> software, or it is incredbily rare.
> 
> I use AV software myself because it is vitally important that my client 
> files not be exposed to any sort of risk whatsoever, but not many other 
> folks are in that position.  (I also use a UPS and multiple hard drives.  
> I think that these have their advantages too, but not everyone needs 
> these things either.)
> 
> So please don't think that I am advocating that you purchase AV software. 
>  You probably don't need it.

I don't need personal long term care insurance right now, either, but 
when I DO need it, I wont be able to buy anything that will help in the 
same way.

One either believes in insurance, or he doesn't.
I do, and I feel I need a working computer.
Against the possibility that I might one day need to counter a malicious 
worm in something like MS Office (the more likely scenario, however 
remote that may be) I far prefer to guard against it now, and not have 
to concern myself.
The barrier is now in place, at a fair price, and I am getting on with 
my computer-enhanced life... <smile>

keith whaley

> Randy B. Singer