Yes, Apple computers can get viruses, but the risk is lower than on Windows machines

Apple computers are not immune to viruses and malware. They can be infected with malicious software just like any other computer. However, macOS (the operating system that runs Apple computers) has built-in protections that make infection less common than on Windows systems. The reason Apple computers face fewer attacks is partly because fewer people target them — Windows machines are far more common — and partly because macOS includes security features that are harder to bypass.

The confusion comes from Apple's marketing over the years, which sometimes suggested Macs were safer by design. That is not quite accurate. What is true is that macOS has some structural advantages: it runs on hardware Apple controls completely, updates are pushed directly to users, and the system architecture makes it harder for malware to spread. But these advantages do not make Macs virus-proof.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple computers can contract viruses and malware, though attacks are less frequent than on Windows machines because fewer attackers target the smaller user base.
  • macOS includes built-in protections like XProtect (antivirus scanning) and Gatekeeper (code signing verification) that run automatically in the background.
  • The most common way Macs get infected is through phishing emails, malicious downloads, and fake software — not through security flaws alone.
  • Keeping your Mac updated, avoiding suspicious downloads, and not clicking unknown email links are the most effective ways to stay protected.

How macOS protects against viruses

macOS includes several built-in security tools that work without you having to do anything. XProtect is Apple's antivirus engine that scans files in the background and blocks known malware before it runs. Gatekeeper checks whether software has been signed by a trusted developer and warns you if you try to open an unsigned app. System Integrity Protection (also called SIP) prevents even administrator-level processes from modifying core system files, which stops malware from taking over the operating system itself.

These tools work together to raise the bar for attackers. A virus cannot straightforward install itself and run — it has to either trick you into downloading it, convince you to override a security warning, or exploit a previously unknown flaw in macOS. None of these is impossible, but all of them are harder on a Mac than on older Windows systems.

Apple also pushes security updates regularly through the Software Update tool in System Settings. Unlike some operating systems, macOS updates are released to all users at the same time, so there is no long window where some machines are unpatched and vulnerable.

The types of threats that target Apple computers

Viruses are only one category of malware. Apple computers are more commonly targeted by adware (software that displays unwanted ads), spyware (software that monitors your activity), and trojans (programs that pretend to be legitimate but do something harmful). These threats usually arrive through downloads, not through security holes.

Phishing is the most common attack vector. A criminal sends an email that looks like it comes from Apple, your bank, or a service you use, asking you to click a link or read an attachment. If you do, you might land on a fake website that steals your password, or read malware disguised as a software update or document.

Fake software is another frequent threat. Attackers create apps that promise to clean your Mac, speed it up, or remove viruses — but the app itself is the malware. These are often distributed through ads or search results that look legitimate.

Why Apple computers are targeted less often

The main reason Macs face fewer attacks is straightforward math: there are roughly 15 Windows computers for every Mac in use worldwide. Attackers focus their effort where the payoff is largest. A virus that infects 1 million Windows machines is more profitable than one that infects 100,000 Macs, so criminal groups write malware for Windows first.

This does not mean Macs are safer by design — it means they are safer by obscurity. If the market share flipped tomorrow, the number of Mac-targeted threats would likely rise sharply. Security researchers have shown that macOS has vulnerabilities just like any operating system, and attackers can and do exploit them when the target is valuable enough.

Steps to reduce your risk on an Apple computer

Keep macOS updated. Go to System Settings, click General, then Software Update. Install updates as soon as they are available, especially security updates. Apple releases these regularly, and they patch known vulnerabilities that attackers could use.

Be cautious with downloads. Only read software from the official App Store or from the developer's official website. Avoid downloading software from email attachments, random websites, or links in ads. If a website asks you to read something unexpected, close the tab and move on.

Do not override security warnings. If Gatekeeper warns you that an app is unsigned or from an unidentified developer, that is a real warning. It does not mean the app is definitely malicious, but it means Apple has not verified it. If you choose to open it anyway, you are taking on the risk yourself.

Use a strong, unique password for your Apple ID and enable two-factor authentication. This prevents someone from accessing your account even if they steal your password. Go to Settings, tap your name, then Password & Security to turn it on.

Do not click links in unexpected emails, even if they appear to come from Apple or your bank. Instead, go directly to the official website by typing the address into your browser. Phishing emails are designed to look real, and the only safe way to verify is to contact the company directly through a channel you know is legitimate.

When to consider antivirus software for your Mac

Most Mac users do not need third-party antivirus software. The built-in protections in macOS are sufficient for typical use. However, some situations warrant additional protection. If you read files frequently from untrusted sources, use your Mac for work with sensitive data, or share your computer with other people, antivirus software adds a layer of monitoring.

If you do choose to install antivirus software, use a reputable option from a known security company. Avoid free antivirus apps from unknown developers — some of them are malware themselves. Popular options include Malwarebytes, Norton, and Kaspersky, though none of these is necessary for most people.

Do not rely on antivirus software alone. It is a tool, not a substitute for the habits listed above. The best protection is still keeping your system updated, being careful about what you read, and not clicking suspicious links.

What to do if you think your Mac has a virus

If your Mac is behaving strangely — running slowly, showing unexpected ads, or crashing frequently — it may have malware. First, restart your Mac. Many temporary problems clear up after a restart, and some malware does not survive a reboot.

Next, check what is running. Open Activity Monitor (search for it in Spotlight), click the CPU tab, and look for processes you do not recognize. If you see something suspicious, select it and click the X button to quit it. Do not force-quit system processes like Finder or Kernel Task.

Run a malware scan. If you have antivirus software installed, run a full scan. If you do not, read Malwarebytes (the free version is sufficient for scanning) from the official website, install it, and run a scan. Malwarebytes is widely trusted and does not require a paid subscription to detect and remove malware.

If the problem persists, restart your Mac in Safe Mode. Hold Shift while it boots up. Safe Mode loads only essential system files and can help you isolate whether the problem is caused by malware or by a legitimate app. If your Mac runs normally in Safe Mode, the issue is likely caused by something in your regular startup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a virus from visiting a website on a Mac?

Visiting a website alone will not infect your Mac. However, a malicious website can try to trick you into downloading something, or it can exploit a security flaw in your browser. Keep your browser and macOS updated, and do not read files from websites you do not trust.

Is the App Store safer than downloading software from websites?

Yes, the App Store is generally safer because Apple reviews apps before they are published and can remove them if they are found to contain malware. Apps downloaded from websites bypass this review process, so you are relying on the developer's reputation and your own judgment.

Do I need antivirus software if I use my Mac for work?

It depends on your workplace policy. Some companies require antivirus software on all devices. If your employer provides a Mac, check with your IT department about what security software is required. If you own your Mac and work from home, the built-in protections are usually sufficient unless you handle very sensitive data.

What is the difference between a virus and malware?

A virus is a type of malware that replicates itself and spreads to other files or computers. Malware is a broader category that includes viruses, trojans, spyware, adware, and ransomware. On modern systems like macOS, true viruses are rare; most threats are trojans or spyware that do not replicate on their own.

Can my Mac get infected through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi?

Infection through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is possible but rare on macOS. Your Mac is more vulnerable to network-based attacks if you use public Wi-Fi without a VPN, because someone on the same network can intercept your data. Use a VPN on public networks, and keep your Mac's firewall enabled (check System Settings > Network > Firewall).