How to protect your Mac from cyberthreats and malware

Are there viruses on Macs? What you need to know in 2025

For years, the belief persisted that Apple computers were immune to malware. However, 2025 data shows a different reality: Mac viruses and MacBook malware are on the rise, driven by the growing interest of cybercriminals in systems that were once less targeted. Although macOS remains one of the most secure operating systems, protecting your Mac requires a combination of tools, best practices, and advanced MacBook cybersecurity solutions.

Do Viruses Exist on Mac? What You Should Know in 2025

Yes, they do. While macOS includes native security measures, Mac viruses and other types of digital threats have evolved. According to reports from Malwarebytes and AV-TEST, 2024 saw a 50% increase in new variants of adware and trojans specifically designed for Apple users.

Attackers exploit vectors such as:

Applications downloaded outside the App Store.
Phishing emails with malicious links.
Vulnerabilities in browsers or plugins.

In 2025, Mac security is no longer optional—it’s a necessity.

Main Cybersecurity Threats on macOS

The most common ones include:

Adware: floods the user with ads and slows down the system.
Trojans: disguise themselves as legitimate apps to steal data.
Spyware: monitors passwords, emails, and online activity.
Ransomware: locks access to the device until a ransom is paid.
Phishing: tricks users with fake pages imitating official services.

The rise of remote work and device synchronization means MacBook cyberattacks spread faster than ever.

How to Know if Your Mac Is Infected: Common Warning Signs

An infected Mac may show symptoms such as:

Constant pop-ups or ads.
Sudden slowdowns without explanation.
Unknown apps appearing in the Dock or Applications folder.
Strange redirects while browsing.
Overheating or unusual resource usage.

Spotting these signs early is key to protecting the operating system.

Antivirus for Mac: Which Ones Are Worth It?

Although Apple provides a secure ecosystem, having a Mac antivirus is a highly recommended extra layer of protection in 2025. At Setek Consultants, we recommend:

Jamf Protect
Mosyle EDR
Hexnode EDR

These solutions strengthen Mac security against threats that native defenses don’t always block.

Apple’s Built-in Tools to Protect Your Mac

Apple includes several advanced features to safeguard your Mac:

XProtect: automatic malware detection system.
Gatekeeper: blocks apps from unverified developers.
FileVault 2: full-disk encryption to protect data.
Sandboxing: isolates processes to prevent malware spread.
Activation Lock (Find My Mac): deters physical theft.

These Apple antivirus layers run in the background without affecting performance.

Everyday Digital Security Best Practices

Beyond software, Mac protection depends on user behavior. Some recommendations:

Download apps only from the App Store or verified developers.
Keep macOS and all apps always up to date.
Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
Avoid public Wi-Fi without a VPN.
Back up your data regularly with Time Machine or cloud solutions.

Adopting these habits significantly reduces the risk of digital threats.

What to Do if You Think Your Mac Is Compromised

If you suspect your MacBook has malware:

Disconnect it from the internet to prevent data leaks.
Scan the system with an updated Mac antivirus.
Manually remove suspicious applications.
Change the passwords of your main accounts.
Consider reinstalling macOS from scratch if the infection persists.
Contact a MacBook cybersecurity specialist for a professional review.

In 2025, Mac viruses and MacBook malware are a reality. Relying solely on built-in defenses is no longer enough: you need a combination of Apple antivirus solutions, macOS native tools, and solid digital security practices. Only then can you keep your device protected against the growing digital threats and ensure the integrity of your operating system.