Time Machine Protection Feature: Benefits

Pleonasm

Since macOS 10.9.4, Time Machine sets the attributes of the partition on an external backup drive so that only macOS and Time Machine can modify the drive, with users having read-only access (see here).

Bitdefender describes the Time Machine protection feature as an “extra security layer” and a “complex feature” that “gives you the edge against any malware that tries to encrypt or destroy your backups” (see here).

Thus, what precisely are the additional benefits provided by Bitdefender, given that macOS already protects the Time Machine backup drive?

Alexandru_BD

Hello @Pleonasm 🙂

In simple and short terms, macOS system protection can be disabled by an elevated user, or by using a s.c.r.i.p.t. It's not entirely bulletproof.

The Bitdefender feature comes as an additional layer of security because it can block unwanted access, even if the macOS protection is turned off by someone or something.

In conclusion, the security provided by Bitdefender plus the macOS self protection means that no one can stop the process that protects the backup drive.

As a general strategy, the security modules in Bitdefender are designed in a specific way, so that IF a defense fails, another one takes its place, but with macOS, Time Machine simply addresses a vulnerability.

I hope the explanation is helpful.

Regards

Pleonasm

Yes, @Alexandru_BD, your explanation is very helpful.  Thank you.