### The Changing Terrain of Mac Malware: Is Antivirus Software Necessary?
For numerous years, it was commonly assumed that Mac malware posed little risk. This belief originated from the relatively small market share of Macs, making them less enticing targets for cybercriminals. Nevertheless, the situation has evolved significantly. Currently, Macs are the fourth most popular brand of personal computers, and their users, often linked to high-end products, have turned into attractive targets for malware creators.
#### The Surge of Mac Malware
Traditionally, two main elements shielded Mac users from malware: their smaller user base and the strong built-in security features of macOS. However, the rising popularity of Macs has resulted in an increase in malware specifically crafted to take advantage of flaws within the operating system. This prompts a crucial inquiry: Are the security features embedded in macOS adequate to defend users against the escalating malware risks, or is there a need for third-party antivirus solutions?
#### Evaluating macOS Security
To tackle this inquiry, Macworld performed a comprehensive examination by subjecting a typical installation of macOS 15.6.1 to over 130 known malware samples. These samples were obtained from a collection assembled by the non-profit group Objective-See. The outcomes of this evaluation offered valuable perspectives on the efficacy of macOS’s native security features.
The results were largely positive. While macOS allows users to install malware if they disregard warnings and authorize permissions, the built-in defenses effectively prevent or isolate the majority of malware threats, assuming users follow safety prompts.
#### User Actions and Malware Installation
During the evaluation, it was observed that users could circumvent security protocols and install harmful software if they were not careful. For example, the test indicated that users might unintentionally install trojans and other dangerous applications by ignoring notifications. One instance involved the installation of a counterfeit Discord app that sought access to audio and video data, ultimately compromising the user’s Safari homepage.
#### Conclusion: Native Safeguards vs. Third-Party Antivirus
The evaluation concluded that for users who mainly download apps from the Mac App Store, depend on trusted developers, and heed Apple’s security notifications, the built-in protections of macOS are largely sufficient for defending against malware. The operating system incorporates several safeguards that effectively prohibit or signal potential threats before they can inflict serious damage.
In conclusion, while the danger of Mac malware is genuine and escalating, numerous users can depend on macOS’s built-in security features for protection. However, individuals who frequently download software from unverified origins or who may not be as meticulous about security alerts might still think about investing in third-party antivirus products for added reassurance.
