For years, Mac users proudly waved the “Macs don’t get viruses” banner. And to be fair, macOS did enjoy a reputation for being safer than Windows. But times have changed — fast. Cybercriminals now view macOS as a prime target, and the data proves it.
In 2024, Apple saw a 400% increase in macOS threats compared to 2023, according to Red Canary’s Threat Detection Report. Another separate analysis from Moonlock Labs found that advanced malware‑as‑a‑service kits for macOS are now sold for as little as $1,500/month, making Mac malware easier to create than ever. With the barrier to entry this low, attackers of all skill levels are joining in — and Macs are firmly in their crosshairs.
So yes, in 2026, antivirus software for Macs isn’t optional. It’s essential.
Let’s break down why.
Macs Are Now High‑Value Targets
The number of macOS users has surged — including in business environments where devices often store sensitive data. As macOS adoption grows, cybercriminals follow the money.
Reports show that macOS malware is:
- More common — rising year over year
- More sophisticated — frequently bypassing built‑in protections
- More accessible to attackers — due to low‑cost malware kits and AI-driven help
In fact, researchers note that macOS market share jumped 60% in the past 3 years, making it a much more profitable target for attackers.
Built‑In macOS Protections Are Helpful — But Not Enough
Apple includes strong native defenses like Gatekeeper, XProtect, and System Integrity Protection (SIP). They’re good — but not perfect.
Attackers regularly find ways around these protections, often by tricking users into:
- Installing malicious apps disguised as legitimate downloads
- Overriding Gatekeeper prompts
- Allowing system access through fake update notices or pop‑ups
Gatekeeper bypasses were so common that Apple had to patch major weaknesses in 2024, including removing the ability to right‑click‑bypass unsigned apps — a trick widely used by malware distributors.
The real problem? Many attacks don’t exploit macOS flaws at all. They exploit human behavior.
Antivirus software adds that extra layer of protection that stops threats when Apple’s built‑ins (or your instincts) fall short.
The Threats Targeting Macs Today
Modern macOS malware isn’t just annoying adware anymore. It includes:
- Stealer malware
Tools like Atomic Stealer, Banshee, and Poseidon go after keychains, browser data, crypto wallets, and stored passwords. - Backdoors and remote‑access trojans (RATs)
These allow attackers to spy on you, steal files, or take full control of your Mac. - Malvertising and poisoned search results
Fake ads and download links can silently install malware — even when you think you’re being careful. - AI‑generated malware
Criminals now use AI to write, package, and refine malware that can evade traditional defenses.
These aren’t hypothetical threats — they’re increasing every year.
Why Antivirus Software for Macs Is Essential
Here’s what good antivirus can do that built‑in macOS protections can’t always guarantee:
- Real‑time malware detection
Stops threats before they install or spread. - Protection from malicious downloads & shady links
Especially helpful with malicious ads or spoofed sites pretending to be popular apps. - Phishing and credential theft defense
Increasingly critical as attackers target Mac users through social engineering. - Behavioral monitoring
Modern antivirus tools watch for suspicious actions (like unauthorized access attempts) that may indicate new, unknown malware. - Extra protection where Apple’s defenses end
If you accidentally approve a malicious prompt (which is exactly what attackers want), antivirus can still catch the threat in time.
Macs are powerful, reliable, and secure — but they’re no longer immune to threats. With a 400% surge in macOS malware and AI-powered attacks becoming mainstream, relying solely on Apple’s built-in defenses is risky.
Adding good antivirus software for Mac closes the gap and keeps your Mac — and your digital life — much safer.
In today’s threat landscape, antivirus for Macs isn’t paranoia. It’s smart security.
