Just bought a used Mac. I want to make sure it doesn’t have any malware, viruses or spyware on it.
Is “Erase all Files” enough or do I need some kind of deeper format?
MacBook Air 13″, macOS 11.5
I'm not sure that this answers my question.
Are you saying that following these steps means that no malware, spyware or any other security threats will be removed?
I'm not sure that this answers my question.
Are you saying that following these steps means that no malware, spyware or any other security threats will be removed?
The answer is "it depends."
For example, if the previous owner did not release that Mac from Activation Lock, or if a Firmware Password had been set and not removed prior to transferring ownership, or if is remotely managed through an organization such as a business or educational institution, then you will be unable to use that Mac either now or at some point in the future.
Are you certain that Apple Support document was complied with? How do you know? Do you know its previous owner and are still able to contact him or her? The answers to those questions will address the uncertainty you express.
How is an Activation Lock relevant?
Please, I'm asking a simple question: assuming that these steps were adhered to (specifically - the steps linked in step 2 of these instructions) - can I be sure that no malware remains on my mac.
There's literally no reason to start debating whether or not the steps were adhered to, because my questions assumes that they were.
Before selling or transferring ownership of a Mac, its previous own must comply with the following instructions: What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your Mac - Apple Support. They are not optional.
If he or she was remiss in doing so, and if you no longer have contact with that seller, and returning it for a full cash refund is not an option, then begin with Step 8.
TalSOrbach wrote:
Please, I'm asking a simple question: assuming that these steps were adhered to (specifically - the steps linked in step 2 of these instructions) - can I be sure that no malware remains on my mac.
Yes.
How is an Activation Lock relevant?
It is relevant because if a previous owner enabled Activation Lock and did not subsequently remove it and perform all the other steps required for properly transferring ownership of a Mac, then it will not be usable. You may not discover that until a previous owner takes action to remotely lock or erase that Mac.
TalSOrbach Said:
"Making sure a newly purchased used Mac is malware free: Just bought a used Mac. I want to make sure it doesn’t have any malware, viruses or spyware on it. Is 'Erase all Files' enough or do I need some kind of deeper format?"
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What is Needed:
Use Malwarebytes for Mac. The free version blocks popups. The paid version blocks out known spam numbers. So, consider using it. It is made by long time users of these forums, making it the only reliable security software for a Mac. Read the following post to see how to use this software: Blocked numbers - Apple Community
Downloads:
Making sure a newly purchased used Mac is malware free
