Latest news with #XProtect
CNET
a day ago
- CNET
Do Macs Get Viruses? How to Scan for a Mac Virus
Remember those old I'm a Mac, I'm a PC ads? In one, the Mac looks on, concerned, while the PC keeps sneezing from a virus it's caught, eventually crashing backward onto the ground. For a while, Macs did seem mostly immune to computer viruses. But when Apple's market share ballooned, with it came a new fan club: hackers. Yes, MacOS comes with XProtect, Gatekeeper and other tools, and most Mac owners get by just fine with these plus a dash of skepticism. Still, security firms keep spotting fresh malware strains, and some of the old tricks (like phishing and social engineering) still work. So while your Mac isn't helpless, it's not untouchable either. Read more: Best Antivirus for Mac for 2025 Can Macs get viruses? Yes, Macs can get viruses, and they always could. The idea that they can't comes from a time when most malware was aimed at Windows users. But when Macs grew in popularity, they caught hackers' attention. Apple does include some built-in tools to help keep things safe. XProtect checks downloaded files for known malware. The Malware Removal Tool tries to clean up anything that slips through. And Gatekeeper stops you from opening apps that haven't been approved. These features run quietly in the background, and most Mac users don't even notice them. They're not foolproof, though. They rely on Apple's list of known threats, which doesn't always update as fast as threats evolve, so newer types of malware can still sneak in. If you're curious, you can take a look at XProtect's malware database by opening this folder on your Mac: /Library/Apple/System/Library/CoreServices/ Screenshot by Marshall Gunnell/CNET That's where Apple keeps files like and which list known malware signatures. The GateKeeper database is It's not exactly beginner-friendly reading, but it's all there if you want to poke around. Do Mac viruses differ from Windows viruses? Not as much as you might think. Macs and Windows machines can both be hit with the usual stuff, like ransomware, spyware and phishing scams. The main difference is how the bad stuff gets in. On Macs, it's often a Trojan virus hiding in a fake app or phony software update. Adware is another common one. It clutters your screen with pop-ups or messes with your browser. And then there are supply chain attacks, where hackers sneak malware into legit apps before you download them. Most malware doesn't care what system you're running. A lot of it is built to work on anything, so using a Mac won't shield you from it. Signs that your Mac might have a virus Macs usually run smoothly, so if something feels off, it's probably not a fluke. Keep an eye out for some of these issues that could indicate your Mac has a virus: It's running noticeably slower than usual, even with just a few apps open. The fan is constantly going, and your Mac's running hotter than usual. Pop-ups start showing up even when you're not browsing. Your browser's homepage or search engine has changed without you doing anything. You're redirected to random sites. You notice apps or files you didn't install. Storage space drops suddenly, or your battery drains way faster than it used to. Your Mac crashes or freezes more than normal. Just because you experience one of these things doesn't necessarily mean your Mac is infected with a virus, but if the problem persists or several happen at once, it's probably time to check for malware. How to scan for Mac viruses If anything listed above sounds familiar or if something else is off with your Mac, check for viruses. There are a few ways to do this, some built-in and some not. You can start with Activity Monitor, which shows you what's running on your Mac. Here's how: Open Activity Monitor from Applications > Utilities. Look through the list of processes for anything that seems weird or is using a lot of CPU or memory. If something stands out that you don't recognize, Google the name. It might be harmless, or it might be malware. Screenshot by Marshall Gunnell/CNET XProtect and the Malware Removal Tool are already running in the background, blocking known threats and cleaning up anything suspicious when your system restarts. You won't see them working, but they're there. That said, if you want a full scan, it's a good idea to run a third-party antivirus app. There are plenty out there that are Mac-friendly. Do I need to get rid of Mac viruses? Yes, even if things seem mostly fine. Some viruses or malware hang out quietly in the background, logging what you do or slowing things down. Others can steal personal info, mess with your files, or make your Mac act weird in ways that are hard to trace. If you ignore it, you're giving it time to do more damage. You could end up losing data or exposing your passwords. Or, if you get rid of your Mac, you could accidentally pass the problem along to someone else. Even if the symptoms are minor, it's not worth the risk. If you think your Mac might have a virus, it's best to deal with it as soon as possible. Best ways to get rid of Mac viruses Here are some simple steps to clean things up if you think your Mac might be infected: Delete any apps you don't recognize. Open your Applications folder and look for anything unfamiliar. If you see something you didn't install, drag it to the Trash and then empty the Trash. Check what's running at startup. Go to System Settings > General > Login Items. If there's something weird launching when your Mac boots up, remove it. Reset your browser. If your homepage changed on its own or you're getting pop-ups, reset your browser settings and remove any sketchy extensions. Run a virus scan. Use a trusted antivirus app to scan your system and remove anything suspicious. Reinstall MacOS (if it's really bad). As a last resort, back up your files and do a clean reinstall of MacOS. It'll wipe everything and give you a fresh start. Try the basic stuff first. Most issues don't need a full reset to fix. Do MacBooks need virus protection? Apple builds some solid security into macOS. We've already mentioned XProtect and Gatekeeper. Safari also helps by warning you about shady websites and stopping trackers. If you keep your system updated, you're already in decent shape. That said, Macs are very popular, which means hackers are paying attention. Malware can still get in through sketchy downloads, phishing emails and bad browser extensions. And if you're using public Wi-Fi a lot or installing stuff from outside the App Store, you're opening the door a little wider. So, do you need a third-party antivirus? Maybe not if you're super careful, but a good antivirus adds an extra layer of protection that's nice to have.
Zawya
01-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Milestone Systems unveils future-ready security upgrades for the Middle East market
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Amidst the evolving surveillance and security landscape in the Middle East, Milestone Systems announces updates across its complete security technology portfolio, for XProtect video management software, BriefCam AI-powered analytics, and Arcules cloud video security. These new features aim to provide security teams in the Middle East and beyond with practical, easy-to-use tools that improve response times, strengthen protection of people and assets, and simplify day-to-day operations Access Control Visualization Security operations often struggle with switching between different interfaces to monitor video and access control systems. The new XProtect 2025 R2 addresses this challenge by bringing access control directly onto Smart Map. Operators can now see doors and access points, such as card readers, entry gates, turnstiles, and other controlled entry devices, on the same map as their cameras, making it easier to monitor facility security at a glance. When an access-related event occurs, the door icon on the map automatically updates, allowing operators to quickly identify issues. Teams can acknowledge alarms and control doors directly from the map interface, saving valuable time during security incidents when every second counts. Practical Workflow Improvements Operators will notice several practical improvements in their daily workflow. When creating image snapshots in investigations, operators can now include time stamps and camera information directly on the images, a frequently requested feature that improves traceability in reports. The Smart Client also combines previously separate HTML and image/text functions, making it easier to build comprehensive security dashboards. For development partners, XProtect 2025 R2 enhances the Milestone Integration Platform with geographic positioning for access control units and expanded video codec support for web applications. The Milestone AI Bridge 2.0.0 is now officially available for production, making it easier for organizations to integrate artificial intelligence with their security video. Enhanced Analytics Portfolio The latest updates from BriefCam focus on delivering more reliable performance and intuitive operation for security teams using video analytics. Key enhancements include: Enhanced stability through modernized infrastructure and strengthened security frameworks for consistent performance when analyzing large volumes of video data New Home Research Dashboard with tailored views for specific use cases, making it easier for different types of users to access the tools they need most Improved visualization capabilities through enhanced mapping in the Respond Module to help better understand incident patterns and locations Streamlined workflows for creating custom classifications and improved synchronization with video management systems Flexible Cloud Security Solutions For organizations transitioning to cloud-based security, Milestone's Arcules platform has received substantial enhancements that address the growing demand for flexible, scalable video surveillance solutions. The updated platform delivers: Improved enterprise scalability, allowing organizations to expand their video security coverage without compromising performance or management complexity Enhanced user management capabilities that provide administrators with better control over access permissions and system configurations Expanded analytics features that help security teams extract more value from their video data and identify patterns more effectively Better integration capabilities with existing security infrastructure, making it easier to adopt cloud-based video surveillance without disrupting established workflows These improvements enable organizations to deploy hybrid security architectures that seamlessly integrate cloud and on-premises components, providing the flexibility to adapt security strategies as needs evolve. "Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are setting the standard for incorporating AI-powered surveillance to improve security and public safety, especially in light of the technology's rapid advancement. It becomes essential for security firms to stay ahead of these shifts and keep improving AI technologies, aligning with their services,' says Louise Bou Rached, Director – Middle East, Turkey, and Africa, Milestone Systems. 'These new upgrades give security experts greater capacity to protect individuals and assets while expediting operations. Reaffirming Milestone's position as a leader in integrated security solutions, the continuous innovation assures that security professionals are prepared to handle modern issues, whether on-premises or in the cloud." Sign in to the Milestone Systems partner portal and learn more. About Milestone Systems Milestone Systems is a world leader in data-driven video technology used in industries as diverse as manufacturing, airports, law enforcement, retail, and traffic management. We provide a clear picture of how to create a safer, better and more prosperous world. Our XProtect video management software, BriefCam AI-powered analytics, and Arcules cloud VSaaS help our customers learn from the past, understand the present, and predict the future. Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Copenhagen, Milestone employs more than 1,500 people worldwide and has been an independent company in the Canon Group since2014. For more information visit: For news and other press releases, visit our Newsroom. Contacts Namita Thakkar - namita@
Web Release
27-06-2025
- Business
- Web Release
MILESTONE SYSTEMS UNVEILS FUTURE-READY SECURITY UPGRADES FOR THE MIDDLE EAST MARKE
Amidst the evolving surveillance and security landscape in the Middle East, Milestone Systems announces updates across its complete security technology portfolio, for XProtect video management software, BriefCam AI-powered analytics, and Arcules cloud video security. These new features aim to provide security teams in the Middle East and beyond with practical, easy-to-use tools that improve response times, strengthen protection of people and assets, and simplify day-to-day operations Access Control Visualization Security operations often struggle with switching between different interfaces to monitor video and access control systems. The new XProtect 2025 R2 addresses this challenge by bringing access control directly onto Smart Map. Operators can now see doors and access points, such as card readers, entry gates, turnstiles, and other controlled entry devices, on the same map as their cameras, making it easier to monitor facility security at a glance. When an access-related event occurs, the door icon on the map automatically updates, allowing operators to quickly identify issues. Teams can acknowledge alarms and control doors directly from the map interface, saving valuable time during security incidents when every second counts. Practical Workflow Improvements Operators will notice several practical improvements in their daily workflow. When creating image snapshots in investigations, operators can now include time stamps and camera information directly on the images, a frequently requested feature that improves traceability in reports. The Smart Client also combines previously separate HTML and image/text functions, making it easier to build comprehensive security dashboards. For development partners, XProtect 2025 R2 enhances the Milestone Integration Platform with geographic positioning for access control units and expanded video codec support for web applications. The Milestone AI Bridge 2.0.0 is now officially available for production, making it easier for organizations to integrate artificial intelligence with their security video. Enhanced Analytics Portfolio The latest updates from BriefCam focus on delivering more reliable performance and intuitive operation for security teams using video analytics. Key enhancements include: ? Enhanced stability through modernized infrastructure and strengthened security frameworks for consistent performance when analyzing large volumes of video data ? New Home Research Dashboard with tailored views for specific use cases, making it easier for different types of users to access the tools they need most ? Improved visualization capabilities through enhanced mapping in the Respond Module to help better understand incident patterns and locations ? Streamlined workflows for creating custom classifications and improved synchronization with video management systems Flexible Cloud Security Solutions For organizations transitioning to cloud-based security, Milestone's Arcules platform has received substantial enhancements that address the growing demand for flexible, scalable video surveillance solutions. The updated platform delivers: ? Improved enterprise scalability, allowing organizations to expand their video security coverage without compromising performance or management complexity ? Enhanced user management capabilities that provide administrators with better control over access permissions and system configurations ? Expanded analytics features that help security teams extract more value from their video data and identify patterns more effectively ? Better integration capabilities with existing security infrastructure, making it easier to adopt cloud-based video surveillance without disrupting established workflows These improvements enable organizations to deploy hybrid security architectures that seamlessly integrate cloud and on-premises components, providing the flexibility to adapt security strategies as needs evolve. 'Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are setting the standard for incorporating AI-powered surveillance to improve security and public safety, especially in light of the technology's rapid advancement. It becomes essential for security firms to stay ahead of these shifts and keep improving AI technologies, aligning with their services,' says Louise Bou Rached, Director – Middle East, Turkey, and Africa, Milestone Systems. 'These new upgrades give security experts greater capacity to protect individuals and assets while expediting operations. Reaffirming Milestone's position as a leader in integrated security solutions, the continuous innovation assures that security professionals are prepared to handle modern issues, whether on-premises or in the cloud.' Sign in to the Milestone Systems partner portal and learn more.
Techday NZ
23-05-2025
- Business
- Techday NZ
Milestone Systems empowers South Pacific with local leadership
Video platform vendor Milestone Systems, has today announced a significant shift in its approach to the South Pacific region, granting full decision-making autonomy back to its local team. The move, effective immediately, sees the company realign its regional operations under one strategic umbrella, in a bid to accelerate growth, enhance partner engagement and respond more effectively to market needs. According to the company, the recalibration is already producing tangible results. Jordan Cullis, Regional Director for South Pacific at Milestone Systems, described the change as more than a procedural update: "This is more than an operational change – it's a cultural shift. We're empowering our South Pacific team to lead with clarity and confidence, with decisions made closer to the customers we serve. It's already creating the kind of momentum that drives long-term growth." Milestone's renewed focus on the South Pacific region comes alongside a commitment to invest further in local talent, education, and innovation. The company is doubling down on efforts to support its growing partner ecosystem, not only through investment in people but also via in-person educational events. These events are designed to enhance technical skills, share insights, and foster greater collaboration across Milestone's partner community. Cullis highlighted the practical benefits already being seen: "We're accelerating that innovation right here in the region." He explained that empowering the local team is leading to more streamlined operations, deeper technology integrations and a reinvigorated commitment to partner success. The strategy includes maximising opportunities created by Milestone's recent acquisitions of BriefCam and Arcules. BriefCam brings advanced video analytics, while Arcules offers cloud-based video surveillance solutions—both now integrated more closely into the Milestone platform. Cullis emphasised the advantage this delivers to local partners: "Milestone's open platform approach continues to be our superpower. With closer integration of BriefCam's video analytics and Arcules' cloud solutions, we're unlocking even greater value for our customers. Plus, with decision-making now in local hands, we're accelerating that innovation right here in the region." The recalibration comes at a time when demand for intelligent, flexible video technologies is increasing—not just for traditional security applications, but also for public safety, operational efficiency, and broader situational awareness needs. With the South Pacific business units unified and empowered, Milestone aims to better support the evolving needs of customers and partners alike. Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Copenhagen, Milestone Systems has established itself as a world leader in data-driven video technology. Its solutions are deployed in diverse industries, from manufacturing and airports to law enforcement, retail, and traffic management. The company's XProtect video management software, combined with BriefCam's AI-powered analytics and Arcules' cloud video surveillance as a service (VSaaS), enables customers to gain deeper insights from video data. Since 2014, Milestone has operated as an independent company within the Canon Group. Today, it employs more than 1,500 people worldwide, with a significant focus on regional autonomy and local expertise. Recent expansion in privacy and AI capabilities In a recent move that further strengthens its technology portfolio, Milestone Systems acquired Berlin-based brighter AI, effective from 1 April 2025. Brighter AI specialises in anonymisation solutions for video data, using advanced deep learning to protect individuals' identities in public spaces. The acquisition addresses growing concerns around data privacy in AI development. Brighter AI's technology allows companies to access and use video data in a way that is compliant with global privacy regulations, such as GDPR. This is seen as crucial for training effective AI models while safeguarding personal information. Commenting on the acquisition, Thomas Jensen said: "brighter AI is a perfect match for Milestone. Their proven technology is top-notch and will give us a wider offering to existing and future technology partners and customers. The anonymisation tool for video technology will also enhance our focus on responsible technology." The addition of brighter AI's solutions not only bolsters Milestone's video management and analytics offerings, but also underpins responsible technology initiatives such as Project Hafnia—a data library and AI model training tool announced recently.
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Time of India
Signs your laptop might be bugged. And how to fight back
Ever get the feeling that your laptop's watching you… a little too closely? Maybe your battery's draining faster than usual, your fan's running loud even when nothing's open, or your cursor moves when you're not even touching it. Sounds dramatic — but it could be more than just a glitch. #Operation Sindoor The damage done at Pak bases as India strikes to avenge Pahalgam Why Pakistan pleaded to end hostilities Kashmir's Pahalgam sparks Karachi's nightmare Monitoring software — aka spyware, keyloggers, remote access tools — is designed to stay invisible while silently tracking what you do. If that freaks you out a little, good. Because today, we're diving into the signs that someone might've installed monitoring software on your laptop — and how to spot it before it's too late. First: Is Your Laptop Acting Off? One of the first signs that something shady might be running in the background is a sudden shift in how your laptop behaves. It just starts… being weird. Sluggish for no reason, booting up like it's wading through mud, or sounding like it's prepping for takeoff — even if all you've got open is Spotify. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Co-Founder of Google Brain, Andrew Ng, Recommends: "These 5 Books Will Turn Your Life Around" Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo That's usually because monitoring software runs in stealth mode, logging your every move and hogging resources while pretending to do nothing. You might also start seeing: Pop-ups showing up in weird places — not just when you're online. A sudden flood of ads on sites that never had them before. Random system crashes, unexpected restarts, or fast-draining battery. And here's a sneaky one: if you tether your laptop to your phone and notice a data spike you can't explain, something's probably uploading in the background. That's not just bad luck — it's a red flag. Bottom line: If your device starts acting like it's haunted, it might just be bugged. Step One: Run a Full System Scan Start simple. Run a full scan using a trusted antivirus — and no, not the random free one that's been sitting idle for years. Even built-in tools like Windows Defender or Apple's XProtect are better than most people give them credit for. Just make sure: Your virus definitions are updated. You run a full system scan, not a quick one — because spyware knows how to hide deep in system files. Still feel like something's lurking? Let's go deeper. Extra Steps to Sniff Out Monitoring Software If your antivirus came up clean but your laptop's still giving you side-eye, it's time for some manual checks. 1. Check Your Startup Items Your first clue might be hiding in what launches when your laptop boots up. Windows: Task Manager > Startup tab Mac: System Settings > General > Login Items If there's an app you don't recognize — Google it. Then disable or remove it. 2. Audit Installed Programs Think of this like digital spring cleaning. Scroll through your list of installed apps. Names like 'System Helper' or ' are classic spyware covers. If you didn't install it, dig deeper — or uninstall it. 3. Use a Network Monitor Apps like GlassWire (Windows) or Little Snitch (Mac) show you which programs are calling home. If something's constantly pinging a remote server and you don't know why? Shut it down. 4. Keep Your OS Updated It's not exciting, but it works. Most malware relies on known vulnerabilities — and system updates patch those holes. If you've been hitting 'Remind Me Later' for a week… stop that. 5. Enable Firewall Protection Your OS comes with a built-in firewall — turn it on. It helps block shady software from sending data out behind your back. 6. Avoid Sideloading & Cracked Apps This should go without saying — but if you're downloading cracked software from sketchy forums, you're basically inviting spyware in for dinner. 7. Use Strong, Unique Passwords Spyware often tries to grab your credentials. Use a password manager. Stop recycling your Netflix password for your email. You know better. 8. Encrypt Sensitive Files Built-in tools like BitLocker (Windows) and FileVault (Mac) let you encrypt your hard drive. Even if something gets in, it won't get far. 9. Cover Your Webcam & Mic Seriously. Just cover it. Some spyware can access your camera and mic without you knowing. A sticker or a cheap webcam cover is an easy fix. Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut You know your laptop. If it's acting weird — don't ignore it. Most people don't realize they're being monitored until it's too late. So run the scans, check the background activity, and if anything feels off… it probably is. Better paranoid than compromised.
