Malware On Your Mac? Look for THIS Symptom! 🩺

🛡️Think your Mac is safe from Malware? Let's find out!!! In today's episode, we explore two applications - XProtect & Silent Knight. XProtect is built into your Mac and runs quietly in the background 24/7 to keep you safe. It's Apple's back door to your Mac. The only problem is if it STOPS running or doesn't get the updates it needs to fully protect your Mac, it DOES NOT alert you! That's why I'd like to introduce you to Silent Knight (100% Free), a simple App that acts as a system integrity watchdog to ensure XProtect receives updates and the access it needs to keep you safe! Genius!!!
📥 Download Silent Knight (100% FREE)
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🎥 Video Overview
Understanding XProtect and Its Role in Mac Security
Identifying Malware Infection Signs
Using Silent Knight for Enhanced Security Checks
Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying XProtect Functionality & Access
How to Keep Your Mac's Security Features Up-to-Date
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#malware #mac #xprotect #silentknight

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Hey Folks! It has come to my attention that many of you (but not all) do not see XProtect appear under apps requesting Full Disk Access. I've been back and forth with Apple about why some users don't see it and they have yet to give me an answer. What we do know is it has nothing to do with what generation of Mac you have and it has nothing to do with FileVault status. I'll keep you updated here when I get more information - David

[@chateau7]

Yeah, your Full Disk Access looks nothing like mine. I don't even have most of the things you have in your list when you open it.

[@HandsIntoHistory]

I have an early 2016 12" MacBook, and while I WAS able to find XProtect, I can't for the life of me find anything like your system settings. I had to go to 'About This Mac' and click on Software Update then Advanced to see if 'install system data files and security updates' was checked or not (it was). I'm hopefully gonna get my channel going again, and if I can make a decent chunk of money, I SO want to get a desktop Mac, something that can handle DaVinci Resolve. This poor Mac of mine tries desperately to keep up and manages to, somehow. But I don't want to push my luck much longer, lol.

[@razorbackroar]

Ya David mine says it my brothers doesn’t we bought ours the same day.

[@HernaniBeloMarques]

I have an Apple M2 Pro Macmini with sonoma 14.2.1 - xprotect doesn't appear either

[@FDNY8231]

I have the XProtect running in Activity Monitor, but NOTHING named that in FullDiskAccess, and I can't add it.

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Are you an admin on your Mac?

[@ramysami]

Yes, not op but have the same thing

[@martynjohnwulfran9439]

Mine was off, all done. working as in video.. Thanks Tech Talk..

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Glad it helped

[@bobschackner7155]

Thanks David. Another great instructional video. Much appreciated.

[@normski4ash]

Got no Xprotect in my full disc access, where do I find it, or how do I add it ?

[@distral9]

Thanks David, I'm waiting on the Apple answer!

[@TroggyPB]

Really interested to see this vid. I bought a new MacBookAir in October that is running Ventura 13.3 (with Sonoma waiting to be loaded once I return to UK from Australia.). The System Report for Applications indicates main software build was in March 2023. Interestingly XProtect was last modified to version 118 on 3 November 2023. I do not see XProtect on the list of Full Access apps and I cannot add even though I am Admin.

[@FrenchCamp49er]

I do not see it listed either although Silent Knight shows its enabled

[@PromotingTheBeat]

Mine doesn't even show XProtect in my Full Disk Access! (I'm using an M3 iMac) I do have CleanMyMac running but, hm.

[@TechTalkAmerica]

I’m looking into it. Apple doesn’t have any experts that I can talk to on Sunday (today)

[@PromotingTheBeat]

@@TechTalkAmerica I'm not too worried honestly, I mean I have cleanmymac running all the time anyway and from all these years of using macs, rarely have I ever run into an issue.

[@ianrobertson5128]

The XProtect is not visible on my Privacy & Security/Full Disk Access, however, the Silent Knight indicates that XProtect is enabled and running. I am on the latest Sonoma 14.1.1

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Can you confirm whether or not you have FileVault enabled?

[@BillandNellie]

Same here... XProtect not showing up under Privacy & Security/Full Disk Access.

[@ianrobertson5128]

File Vault is not enabled.@@TechTalkAmerica

[@FrenchCamp49er]

@@TechTalkAmerica I don't have XProtect listed either although Silent Knight shows it's enabled. I do have FileVault enabled for my Mac Studio. On my MacBook Pro M1 I do show it listed, same macOS version.

[@GilbertOlbregts]

I have the same problem ,I don't see xprotect in Full Disk Access.

[@atropa_belladonna_]

What should i do if xprotect disabled but im not able to call to Apple support? I'm not from US

[@poetjudge54]

Tech Talk videos has never steered me wrong. I'hem operating a rather old mac book pro. Won't update to anything newer than Big Sur 11.7.10. Found Full Disc Access, no XProtect. Should maybe just upgrade to be on the safe side; same may be true with my iMac. Will try Silent Knight to be on the safe side until I'm able to upgrade equipment. Thanks David. Appreciate your expertise as always.

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Thanks for being a long time viewer! I’m in talks with Apple to try to find out why older operating systems don’t show it running under Full Disk Access. The strange thing is now we’re hearing that from people on brand new Macs too. Because it’s a Sunday when I’m writing this, their top level engineers aren’t available. More to come.

[@affiliateninja88]

@@TechTalkAmerica Im on Sonoma and i cant see xProtect under Full Disk Access. I do see running in the Activity Monitor though. Is it normal and am I safe?

[@byrd203]

if your on a mid 2015 macbook for on 12.71 does it even have x protect I have my new mac on order yes waiting on shipment just want to make sure

[@SteveLum]

David is Silent Knight compatible when using malwarebytes?

[@jenniferk7781]

I was wondering the same thing as my malwarebytes is due for renewal.

[@bickybickford]

Thanks David 👍

[@duringthemeanwhilst]

thank you - you are an absolute star 🙂

[@carminetuppo6455]

hey, my MacBook Pro has literally not a single app allowed to have full access to the disk, including also xprotect obviously, is this normal or could this be a issue?

[@theamarcord1332]

Hi, I have OS Monterey and when I opened “General” it doesn’t have Software update listed, not Inspector icon. So, what do Indo?

[@TechTalkAmerica]

In macOS Monterey (if my memory serves me correctly) just go to System Preferences and then Software Update

[@theamarcord1332]

I am updating my software, but it’s taking forever. So, after that, will I be able to find Inspector icon?

[@jollyranch8384]

So 2021 16 in MacBook Pro running Sonoma 14.1.1 Not only is Xprotect not on but it doesn’t even show up in my full disk menu.

[@squeakyg2161]

Same issue here no XProtect. iMac 27” mid 2011. File vault is off do I need to turn it on?

[@lalvare]

Thank u Sir for this tip it makes my day 😃

[@HonoraryGreek]

I'm running Catalina 10.15.7 on my MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Late 2012), and I do find Xprotect when searching using spotlight, but the icon has one of those 'No Entry' signs on top and it's greyed out. I've downloaded and run Silent Night, and the only problem it flagged up was SIP disabled, and it showed Xprotect as enabled. Should I be worried about SIP?

[@Beyond-Antares]

Wait how do you get the wallpaper to constantly scroll? With Sonoma, my wallpaper only moves for the screen saver...

[@stillwaters007]

Hi David: As always, great info in a clear manner. One question, I went through everything and it checked out. When I went to full disk access to check , X protect was not there. any thoughts? Running Sonoma, 14.1.1. Hope all is well. Love my new Mac book 15 Air. I have taken numerous online lessons with David. Highly recommend !

[@TechTalkAmerica]

I saw that you and a few people had this question. I’m in the process of looking into it, but what would be really helpful would be if you don’t mind sharing what Mac you’re using and what version of macOS. Thanks!

[@NilanjanMustafi]

@@TechTalkAmerica Hi, I can't see XProtect either in full disk access but SilentKnight shows XProtect 2175. I'm using Mac Mini M2 with macOS 14.0 (23A344).

[@rickysleeper]

I have an M1 16" MacBook Pro. Unable to find it in full disk access however it does appear in full disk access in my new Mac Studio. Thanks for looking into this! @@TechTalkAmerica

[@MRrwmac]

Can’t find it on mine either. MacBook Pro, Retina, 15-inch, Mid 2015. Mac OS Big Sur 11.7.10. I tried to upgrade the next approved OS for my machine, Monterey, but when I did, my USB ports stopped working so I unfortunatly had to revert back to Big Sur (where they worked perfectly again).@@TechTalkAmerica

[@jimarthur9936]

Under full disk access I clicked the plus sign to add an application and then found XProtect under the following path: Macintosh HD: Library: Apple: System: Library: CoreServices: XProtect - it added XProtect to the list of full disk access applications with full disk access on.

[@edrugmanmusic]

Is this only for brand new macs? With the latest operating system. Can find nothing on my 2015 MacBook that matches these. Could you add a note to say this is only for brand new current macs if that’s the case or certain operating system version?

[@distral9]

Hi, David. I have a MacBookPro, late 2013. Big Sur 11.7.10 Before SilentKnight intall, I've checked System Préférence, Full Disk Acces and I discovered that the system has no XProtect at all. What is your advice ?

[@franktiger7486]

Hello, thanks for this interesting video. SilentKnight shows everything is fine and XProtect is enabled. However I don’t see XProtect in setting of full disk access. In which folder is Xprotect located, so I can add it? Best regards Frank

[@gchorton]

David, once again you amazing us all. Who would have shared this great information? My most sincere thanks. I do have one for you . . . what the heck is "noto" font! Sheesh I have tons of them and can't seem to be able to remove this darn fonts. They aren't required? Can you share how a person gets rid of this numerous fonts?

[@jozefludrovan5961]

hi man, noto is perfect font with perfect idea. Check the Wiki or I try it say in few sentences. Noto si cross-language font that helps the authors to have same font style in multiple languages. Many fonts have one mistake, that the symbols are not looking similar in other languages. And tram ta ra daaaam, Noto team created font with gazillions of characters in one style. IMHO, it is new Arial in few years.

[@terwya]

Thank you I got the silent knight 2 its not a 2.7. It had one X that said need to update EFI firmware. I clicked on install all updates and for 20 minutes all it's doing is twirling. So no clue if this is working or not.

[@Kebekwoodcraft7375]

Did you make a video about iPad loosing my tabs on safari ? Always good things here thanks 😊

[@mrronenza]

In macOS Sonoma I don't find this as describe here.

[@StellarMacaw]

Thanks a lot for the warning! Btw when I'm clicking full disc access only Whatsapp is showing up. Any ideas why? FileVault is enabled

[@judygrant2587]

Hi David.Have Malwarebytes premium [macB Air 2022] See that XProtect is 'off'--- Do you recommend turning it on ? So appreciate you. Thank you. j

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Yup. Turn it on!

[@GenoRed63]

I have clean my Mac X should I also have this one?

[@randallsokoloski]

Is there any update on this?

[@zanmarcusbiyer]

My Silent Knight Gave Me a KEXT 19.0.0. is my computer dieing?

[@williamgates4399]

I am running Sonoma and no Xprotect under Privacy & Security.

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Can you confirm whether or not you have FileVault enabled?

[@richardstephenson4575]

Thanks David

[@randallsokoloski]

I too didn't find XPROTECT in full-disk access? I hope you find an answer to this. I don't have FileVault enabled (I notice you asked about that!). I am an ADMIN on my MacBook AIR, Sonoma 14.1.1 (23B81).

[@randallsokoloski]

I only have XProtectPlugInService in my Activity Monitor too?

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Looking into it.

[@randallsokoloski]

Any news?@@TechTalkAmerica

[@squeakyg2161]

Do I need to turn file vault? Hmmm

[@user-ww7lo3jp8f]

xProtect is not on my list. Ive never seen it there. Am i missing something?

[@lesliekorodi70]

Everything working fine😁M1 Macbook Air

[@leswagner6119]

There was a newer ver. 2.7 when I went to download. In my download folder no zip file. What to do now.

[@TechTalkAmerica]

I noticed that too. That update literally just came out

[@user-dk8qj3rs5w]

I am running an iMac 24-inch M1, 2021 with macOS Sonoma 14.1 and don't have XProtect in my protected files nor can I find it anywhere on my computer, any ideas?

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Can you confirm whether or not you have FileVault enabled?

[@user-dk8qj3rs5w]

Yes, FileVault is enabled

[@RichardDeAgazio]

I do not see Xprotect in my System Settings.

[@sandybarrie5526]

same here. searched and cant find.

[@TechTalkAmerica]

I saw that you and a few people had this question. I’m in the process of looking into it, but what would be really helpful would be if you don’t mind sharing what Mac you’re using and what version of macOS. Thanks!

[@GrakerNogmister]

@@TechTalkAmerica iMac M1 24" 8Gb Ventura 13.3.1

[@BrianJaggers642]

@@TechTalkAmerica I'm running MacBook Pro 16" 2021 Ventura 13.4 and it's not in FullAccess also.

[@2allanator]

Thank you

[@Cyba_IT]

This is the most American tech channel I've ever seen.

[@bethw7]

🥰Thanks!

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Thank you so much for the Super Thanks!

[@bethw7]

@@TechTalkAmerica This was on my to do list for this coming week, so imagine my surprise when you popped up! You are the BEST! Super easy install.

[@user-yo4kh3cq3j]

Wont open in Safari! Go’s to some led sales company 😅😅

[@TechTalkAmerica]

I know it is a strange website name, but that IS the right site. I just checked it again.

[@MichaelBagge]

I can't find it on my old Macbook Pro Late 2013 on Big Sur.

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Can you confirm whether or not you have FileVault enabled?

[@MichaelBagge]

@@TechTalkAmerica FileVault is deactivated. I recall you recommended this once.

[@mikenauss1]

Hi David: thank you very much for the video, as usual, you are a wealth of information, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it! I do have a question, I unzipped the file, transferred the app into the applications folder. I then got a pop up message, saying that if I transferred it out of the folder, it would no longer be in iCloud Drive and therefore would not work with my other devices. I am assuming Silentnight only works on my MacBook Pro, is this correct? Also, do you have any suggestions on what to use to protect my iPhone and iPad? Thanks very much, I really appreciate the hard work you do, and be gentle as I'm an old fart, and although I can make my way around the computer, I'm nowhere near an expert. Lol. Also, I'm assuming that I can now delete the folder that all the files came in.

[@TechTalkAmerica]

It's all good. It sounds like your downloads folder is in iCloud Drive (not a bad idea) and yes, it will give you that message anytime you move stuff out of it. Silent Knight works on all Macs. Its unlikely your iPhone/iPad need further protection unless you're high profile or work for the CIA. 🕵️‍♂️

[@mikenauss1]

Thanks very much David !!

[@KenJonesRealEstateAdvisor]

If this app is so good, why isn't it on the App Store?

[@freezy2112]

i cant open it

[@AGB-vy2ci]

this is NOT available on the mac app store... now what?

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Link is in the video description

[@AGB-vy2ci]

yeah, i saw that... very confusing@@TechTalkAmerica

[@BLTV_Photoshop]

👏👍

[@schwamieboy1]

How does anyone know if this is not in fact a trojan source?

[@TechTalkAmerica]

It’s clean 🧼 I wouldn’t risk my reputation on it.

[@schwamieboy1]

@@TechTalkAmerica I get your POV, but do you get mine? Wouldn't this software be on the Apple store?I have been searching for a safe anti virus for my mac for a long time, why is this the first time I have heard about XProtect?

[@schwamieboy1]

nothing

[@lgp4960]

Is a FREE APP really free?

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Yes 100%

[@putubing]

My Macbookpro m1 max doesnt even have Xprotect. i see no evidence of it.

[@pennyhamm8204]

How about iPads

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Very minimal risk since the OS is different. Intego does make a malware detection tool for the iPad and iPhone, but I wouldn't recommend it to the average consumer.

[@MarcoPolux]

Yeah right! Install another 3rd party software to check on your Mac's innate default built in security system? That's exactly the definition of how a Trojan can infect. Who knows? Just keep Your Mac up to date and don't install dubious things. And that's it. imho.

[@wmickinley]

this is a fraud

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Would you like to elaborate or do you just like to make big accusations without anything to add to the conversation?

[@HighwayRamos]

It really isn't. I've been using Silent Knight and XPro Check for quite a while with absolutely no problems. Howard Oakley does great work for Mac users and charges nothing for it.

[@wmickinley]

@@TechTalkAmerica Sure. You did a video on something that isn’t at all or isn’t where or what you say it is. Maybe it was for prior OS’s. All to plug some BS product. The only worthwhile bit was your reminder to utilize Apple Support instead of KZbin hack jobs. Go sell vacuums or something

[@user-yo4kh3cq3j]

Wont open in Safari! Go’s to some led sales company 😅😅

[@TechTalkAmerica]

Rewatch the video. Yes, it is a bit of a strange website name but that IS the website. I've verified it twice now. The link is correct.