A lot of people buy Macs because they’ve heard they “don’t get viruses.” It’s one of those myths that just won’t die. And while it’s true that macOS has strong built-in security features, the reality is that Macs absolutely can and do get infected with malware. If you’re relying solely on Apple’s defenses, you’re leaving yourself exposed.

Apple does include some safeguards, like Gatekeeper and XProtect. Gatekeeper checks apps before they run and blocks software that hasn’t been signed or verified. XProtect works quietly in the background, monitoring for known malware and preventing it from launching. These are good tools, but they’re limited. They’re effective against threats that have already been identified, but they can’t do much when a new or more sophisticated attack shows up. And unlike dedicated antivirus providers, Apple doesn’t guarantee full protection or provide direct customer support if your Mac gets compromised.

Think of it this way: the security Apple provides is like the lock on your front door. It’s necessary, but it’s not the same thing as having a full alarm system with cameras and monitoring. That’s where third-party antivirus software comes in. Paid security suites offer real-time protection, faster updates, and broader coverage than Apple’s own tools. They don’t just stop malware—they also block phishing websites, protect your privacy online, and in some cases even include extras like VPNs, password managers, or ransomware recovery.

And the threats are very real. In fact, Tom’s Guide reports that researchers discovered 22 new malware families targeting Macs in a single year, proving that attackers are actively going after Apple devices. The old “Macs don’t get viruses” line is no longer true—if it ever was. To drive the point home, Macworld keeps a running list of viruses, malware, and trojans that have hit Macs in recent years, and it’s longer than most people expect.

So, what should Mac users actually look at? Independent testers and industry experts consistently recommend a few top performers. Intego Mac Internet Security X9 is a great option if you’re protecting just a single Mac—it’s lightweight, affordable, and designed specifically for macOS. If you’re looking for a more complete package, Norton 360 is hard to beat. It bundles antivirus with VPN, identity theft protection, and even a scam-detection feature. For those who value privacy, Surfshark One provides broad coverage across multiple devices, while Avast Premium Security uses AI-powered detection to block threats in real time. Even AVG Internet Security for Mac is worth considering if you want reliable basic protection with a user-friendly interface.

At the end of the day, the lesson is simple: your Mac isn’t invincible. Viruses, adware, phishing scams, and even ransomware are all out there, and they can affect Macs just like PCs. The smartest move is to keep Apple’s built-in protections active, keep your system up to date, and add a trusted antivirus solution on top of that. By doing so, you’re protecting not just your Mac, but your files, your privacy, and your peace of mind.

So if you bought a Mac because you thought it didn’t get viruses—guess again. The truth is, it’s just as important to protect your Mac as it is your Windows PC. And if you’re not sure which solution is the best fit for your setup, reach out. At Better IT Now, we help businesses and individuals stay ahead of these threats every day, and we’d be glad to point you in the right direction.

📚 Further Reading

• Do Macs Need Antivirus? – Tom’s Guide
  Explains why skipping antivirus on a Mac is no longer a safe bet, with data on rising malware threats.

• List of Mac Viruses, Malware, and Trojans – Macworld
  A comprehensive, regularly updated roundup of Mac-specific threats.