Many users have the misconception that Apple Macs are immune to viruses. Fortunately, Apple continuously provides up-to-date and built-in safeguards to all MacBooks’ software and hardware. These tools are proven to be effective in blocking and eliminating viruses and malware year after year.

At the same time, however, hackers and malware authors are broadening their horizons, adding new malware types and families to the Apple ecosystem, according to the latest McAfee Threat Report. Given this, antivirus software would be a wise option for Mac users.

Viruses are malware

When it comes to Macs and other Apple products, malware is a better term to use since a virus is only one type of malicious software that affects computers. Macs can only get infected with malware if they have security flaws or through social engineering attacks, such as phishing and vishing. Mac-specific malware exists, and it can enter your unprotected devices when you install malicious third-party software, access malicious websites, or open unwanted emails.

The long-standing belief that Macs are immune to viruses and other types of malware is a common misconception. While it’s true that macOS has a strong security architecture, it is not invincible against the broader category of threats, from intrusive adware that spams you with pop-ups to dangerous spyware that steals your personal information. Macs can and do get infected, typically through phishing emails that steal your passwords, downloaded software from untrusted websites, and even malicious ad banners.

To the question ‘do Macs need antivirus,’ the answer is a resounding ‘yes.’ Apple’s built-in defenses provide an excellent first layer, but complete and dedicated security software adds a crucial second layer to detect and block emerging threats that might bypass native protections, offering you comprehensive security and greater peace of mind in an evolving threat landscape.

Types of malware that attack Macs

Viruses and malware on Apple devices are rare, but they still exist. Like parasites, they evolve and adapt. They also have different types and functions. To summarize, the range of malware includes:

  • Adware: This type of malware displays pop-ups ads for unwanted software. Apple’s built-in protection systems, such as macOS Big Sur, seem to be less effective against this type of malware, allowing ads to appear on websites even without downloads or installation.
  • Unwanted programs: Famous examples of unwanted programs include Mac Space Reviver and Advanced Mac Cleaner, which threaten users and develop negative reputations online. The best way to avoid these unwanted programs is to research a product before committing to installing it.
  • Ransomware: Ransomware locks applications, databases, and even an entire operating system unless victims pay the hackers to regain access to their devices, files, and data.
  • Cryptocurrency miners: Criminals often attempt to mine Bitcoin in other people’s Macs through cryptojacking. To do this, they send emails with suspicious links or attach malicious codes to websites and ads, then lure victims into downloading a virus that can mine cryptocurrencies.
  • Spyware: Spyware enters a device by hiding on installed software programs, licensed or not, gathers your sensitive information, then sends it to third-party firms or advertisers without your knowledge.
  • Phishing: Almost everyone has received suspicious emails and knows how dangerous phishing can be, especially its two common types: vishing and smishing. However, criminals continue to get more sophisticated, so it may become more challenging to avoid falling for one. Some experienced phishing criminals can successfully impersonate high-ranking individuals from known organizations or replicate legitimate CSS and JavaScript code to send malicious links and ads.
  • Trojan virus: This disguised malware may have any number of goals, but usually involves leaving behind “back-door” access so they can steal your data at a later time.
  • USB or Thunderbolt: Mac users have reported malware installed through an infected USB cable and other external storage. Thunderbolt, a superset of ports, also struggles with the same security flaws.

Built-in antivirus tools in Macs

Apple takes security seriously, and includes defenses against malware that might affect the operating system and its hardware. These protections are meant to stop you from unknowingly downloading it in the first place, let alone voluntarily installing it.

XProtect

XProtect is Apple’s malware scanning tool that works in the background without interrupting your experience. It works like standard third-party antivirus software and automatically updates regularly. If you try to open an infected program, XProtect displays a warning and informs you what kind of malware it is. You should delete the file if this happens. However, XProtect is not as up-to-date as some alternative solutions out there as Apple released other security solutions with a new product line.

Gatekeeper

With Gatekeeper, macOS does a good job of automatically blocking software from developers that Apple hasn’t yet approved. In Catalina, the sixteenth and major version of macOS, the new version of Gatekeeper checks for malware every time you run the app. However, it can only protect you from Apple’s App Store software. To permit programs from verified developers downloaded elsewhere from the internet, navigate to System Preferences > Security and Privacy > General > Allow Applications Downloaded From and select either App Store or App Store and Identified Developers. Remember, however, that downloading applications from the App Store is the safest option.

Sandboxing

In a sandbox environment, the Mac isolates newly downloaded apps from already-installed programs and content to prevent it, especially suspicious ones, from authorizing processes that could cause severe damage to your device. However, sandboxing was only enforced in 2012. Today, it is a mandatory part of Apple security, needing your permission before accessing the rest of your system files, microphone, camera, and keystrokes.

As part of sandboxing, the Catalina update also now isolates the macOS system files on a separate disk volume, making them more challenging for an unauthorized user to access, and preventing malware from wreaking havoc on your data.

Safari protections

Safari also has built-in anti-phishing technology that can identify fraudulent websites. If it thinks you are on a website with a virus, Safari disables the page and alerts you about the possibility. Other anti-virus technologies built into Safari include:

  • Anti-tracking technology, which prevents advertisers from tracking you and your activities on the internet. It blocks third-party cookies without affecting your browsing experience and reports each tracker that Safari stopped.
  • Up-to-date plugins. Plugins like Oracle Java, QuickTime, and Silverlight don’t run if you haven’t downloaded the latest update; this is another feature of Safari keeping you safe. Now that Adobe no longer updates Flash, Safari will keep you from using it and encountering malware.
  • Password check. Safari warns you about too-old or duplicate passwords across your accounts, and suggests strong passwords for new accounts on a website. You don’t have to worry about remembering these unique passwords because Apple securely saves them to your account, recalling them only when you allow it.

FileVault Encryption

FileVault 2 encrypts your data for additional security. You can use FileVault to make sure you are the only one who can decrypt your data.

Keep your Mac safe

With more than 100 million Mac users today, it’s no wonder that these devices are a growing, lucrative target for hackers. Apple does its job to provide effective security layers against viruses. Meanwhile, you will need to follow standard precautions to avoid other forms of malware. This means avoiding suspicious emails and the links inside, steering clear of outdated applications, and other similar behaviors.

To top it all, keeping your macOS up-to-date is still your strongest line of defense against viruses as these updates contain system and application fixes that can combat existing and emerging security threats and address newly discovered vulnerabilities.

Automatic updates

To set up this process, follow these instructions:

  • Navigate to System Preferences > Software Update.
  • Check the box “Automatically keep my Mac up to date.”

Manual updates

Alternatively, you can manually update your OS if you can’t find a convenient time to execute automatic updates. To do that:

  • Go to Software Update > Advanced, and select from the following:
    • Check for updates
    • Download new updates when available
    • Install macOS updates
    • Install app updates from the App Store

Look for indications

  • Watch for common signs: Be alert for tell-tale symptoms of an infection, including your Mac suddenly running very slowly, unexpected pop-up ads and browser redirects, your fan running constantly even when idle, or finding new applications and browser extensions that you never installed. In serious cases, you might see a ransom note demanding payment to unlock your files.
  • Perform quick checks: Investigate key areas by heading to the Activity Monitor to look for unknown processes using a high percentage of CPU power. You may also go to System Settings > General > Login Items to see if strange apps are launching at startup. Also, check System Settings > Privacy & Security > Profiles for any configuration profiles you don’t recognize and remove them.

Quick actions to take if you find a virus or malware

If you find evidence of malware, act quickly. First, disconnect your Mac from the internet to stop the malware from communicating with external servers. After ensuring that your macOS is fully updated to patch any security vulnerabilities, run a full system scan with a reputable antivirus program to find and remove the threat. Finally, once your Mac is clean, change your important online passwords, as they could have been compromised.

Scan for viruses

  1. Use a trusted antivirus scanner: The most reliable method is to use dedicated security software. Install a reputable program from a trusted source, such as McAfee Total Protection, which is considered one of the best antivirus for Mac options.
  2. Run a full system scan: Once installed, open the antivirus application and choose the option for a “Full Scan” or “System Scan.” This will thoroughly check all files on your Mac, including hidden system files where malware often resides.
  3. Review and quarantine threats: After the scan is complete, the software will show a list of any detected threats. Follow the recommended actions, which typically involve moving the malicious files to a secure quarantine folder or deleting them permanently. Restart your Mac afterward to complete the cleaning process.

Do Macs need antivirus software?

You can easily obtain free malware removal tools, but many of them only offer basic features and can’t combat severe viral or malware infection. It’s best to identify the best licensed antivirus software and malware removal tool that fits your needs.

Consider the software’s price, reputation or success rate, and inclusions. Paid commercial products offer more protection, but if you can’t afford them, at least install a free antivirus.

Will it slow down my Mac?

Modern antivirus software for Macs use smart technologies to be lightweight and efficient, resulting in minimum impact on system performance. The cloud-based analysis removes the heavy work from your device Mac and moves it to powerful external servers, and optimized real-time scanning focuses only on new or changed files.

For more intensive full-system scans, you can easily schedule them to run overnight or when you’re not using your computer. For most users, the robust protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware far outweighs the very minor and unnoticeable impact on performance. The key is to choose a well-regarded, optimized solution that keeps you safe without slowing you down.

Final thoughts

Based on macOS’ capabilities, it may not be strictly necessary to install a third-party antivirus app. Apple also does a reasonably good job keeping its list of malware up to date. However, malware authors, hackers, and cybercriminals are still actively finding loopholes in every type of device today.

For extra peace of mind and additional security protection, you can install free or paid antivirus apps like McAfee Total Protection. This software offers comprehensive security that can protect multiple devices, various operating systems, and personal data.