Need antivirus?

I have an iMac with OS X 10.9.5. Is a separate antivirus required? I had read that it was and put in Sophos which promptly stopped all internet connection. I had to remove it and am reluctant to try anything else.

There is no need for an antivirus on OS X at the moment.
Just practice safe computing and stay away from dodgy websites.
Most important ......
1) If you did not specifically went looking for it, don't install it.
2) if an application asks for your password, think twice
3) Keep your OS up to date
4) do not install updates through pop-up windows, install updates from the respective vendor websites

Cheers ... McBie

Thanks

Also, try reading this.
http://www.mac-forums.com/forums/sw...-official-antivirus-malware-firewall-faq.html