Avast Security
Avast Security is a Mac antivirus and security app from AVAST Software a.s. that scans for malware and helps protect files and network activity.
What is Avast Security?
Avast Security is a macOS security application published by AVAST Software a.s. It is designed to detect malware, scan files and folders, and provide ongoing protection through background security components. Avast documents features such as real-time shields, multiple scan types, external storage scanning, and quarantine handling for suspicious files. On newer versions of macOS, the app may also install login items or background helpers so protection and updates can continue after sign-in. Many users encounter it after intentionally installing antivirus software, security bundles, or a trial that came with another download or device setup. It is not a built-in Apple app, but it is a legitimate commercial security product that requires elevated permissions and deep system access to deliver its protections.
Key features
- Real-time scanning of files and apps for malicious threats
- On-demand scans for full system, targeted, and external storage checks
- Quarantine for isolating suspicious or detected files
- Custom scan settings with scheduling options
- Background components that support updates and active protection
- Network and security issue checks within the app
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
This is a legitimate antivirus product from AVAST Software a.s., not a macOS system component. Because security software monitors files, traffic, and system events, it typically has broad permissions and may run background items. That level of access is normal for this category, but it also means the app can affect privacy, notifications, performance, and network behavior more than ordinary apps.
Recommendation: Keep it if you actively use Avast Security and want its malware protection features. If you do not use it, or if you prefer another security product, it is generally reasonable to remove it with the vendor’s normal uninstall method to avoid overlapping security tools and background activity.
Common paths
/Applications/Avast Security.app
Support paths
~/Library/Application Support/Avast
Preference paths
~/Library/Preferences/com.avast.AAFM.plist
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