While Apple does release new batch of definition files in its daily updates, some users have reported that the files have not been automatically updating the way that they should. This procedure shows you how to check if your virus definition files are up to date, and if not, how you can update them manually.
Check To See if Your Malware Definition Is Up To Date
In the Spotlight, search for “terminal“. Open the Terminal app.
Copy and paste this command:
In the code that comes up, you should see a last modification date in the code. If this date is today, you do not need to update. If it is not today, then you need to update your virus definitions manually. The date line should look like this:
How to Update You Virus Definitions
You are going to love this one because it is so simple. Just follow these steps:
Open your System Preferences.
Click on the “Security Preferences” pane.
Uncheck the box next to the word “Automatically update safe downloads list”.
Re-check the box. There you have it. You will have your files automatically updated. You might want to double check your system with the same command to see if the file is is up to date. If you see today’s date, then you are good to go. If not, you might need to check your Mac for 1. virus that prevent the system for auto-update, 2. software defects. There you have it, the best way to make sure that your system is up to date on the virus definitions that are available to you. Image credit: ?rakaz
