

The computers automatically quarantine suspicious files, meaning that they can’t access critical system software or change the computer’s core functions. In general, the design of Macs limits damage from malware. And if it finds any malicious code, it immediately neutralizes it. There’s also the Mac Malware Removal Tool that scans the entire system regularly to make sure nothing has snuck past XProtect. That’s just the first layer of protection. If it finds malware on a file or application, it immediately notifies the user and blocks the threat. It scans applications and files for viruses and malware using a database that Apple updates daily. XProtect is a built-in proprietary antivirus software for Macs. Security has always been one of the main focuses of Apple software, and we see that in the fact that it has included XProtect in every macOS system since 2009. Avast Antivirus – Mac is Protected Do Macs Have Built-in Antivirus Software? On this page, we’ll explain just how protected Macs are against malware, what you can do to protect your digital safety, and what the biggest cybersecurity threats are to Mac users. If you’re a Mac user who believes Macs don’t need antivirus, it’s time to think again.

In 2019, for instance, there was a 400-percent increase in Mac malware compared to the previous year, according to Malwarebytes. Moreover, the number of macOS malware is quickly increasing as more and more people switch to Macbooks and Macs.

Macs are still very much vulnerable malware - it’s just that there are more types of Windows malware in existence today. That, however, is nothing but a dangerous misconception. That and the fact that a huge majority of malware is designed for Windows lead many to believe that Macs don’t need antivirus software. That means a piece of malware designed to exploit a Windows vulnerability does no harm to a Mac and vice versa.

Here’s one tidbit of information about malware that many people don’t know: Many of them are OS-specific. Keeping macOS up-to-date helps patch security vulnerabilities.Read our Bitdefender review, a top-rated software with 100-percent virus detection rate. Macs need third-party antivirus for total protection.Macs have built-in antivirus and security software, but they aren’t foolproof.
