Multi-Device Antivirus with Built-in VPN & Ad-Block.
- Real-Time Malware Protection
- Multi-Platform & Multi-Device
- Built-in VPN for Privacy
- Ad Blocking & WebShield Features
- Personal Data Breach Monitoring
We’ve compiled a list of top antivirus solutions built specifically for macOS. Each product featured here has been tested for its ability to detect and eliminate threats on Mac systems — offering reliable protection against viruses, malware, and more.
Multi-Device Antivirus with Built-in VPN & Ad-Block.
Complete Security Suite with AI Scam Protection & Backup.
Multi-Layered Defense with Minimal Impact & Secure VPN.
Multi-Layered Malware Defense with Optional Privacy Features
Free Core Protection with Upgradeable Firewall & Tune-Up Tools.
Trusted Free Antivirus with Advanced Web & Ransomware Shield.
All-in-One Digital Security with Identity Protection
Lightweight Browser Protection for Safe Browsing
Multi-Layered Malware Defense with Optional Privacy Features
Cloud Antivirus with VPN & Parental Controls.
“Wait, don’t Macs already protect themselves?” That’s the question many Mac users still ask — and while there’s a grain of truth to it, the full picture is a bit more complicated. macOS does have built-in security features like Gatekeeper, XProtect, and system integrity protections. But even Apple admits these tools aren’t foolproof. Today’s threats don’t always look like traditional viruses — and they’re getting smarter every year.
Whether you’re on a shiny new MacBook or an iMac that’s seen a few seasons, the truth is this: Yes, even Macs can get infected. And in 2025, threats are less about “breaking your computer” and more about stealing your stuff quietly — passwords, financial info, identity data. A good antivirus doesn’t just catch malware — it also shields you from phishing links, adware, sneaky apps, and privacy invasions.
Let’s break it down.
While Windows users are still the bigger target, Macs aren’t invisible anymore. With macOS growing in popularity, hackers are paying attention. Here’s what’s out there in 2025:
Adware & unwanted apps: Pop-ups, fake cleaners, browser hijackers — all designed to push spam or trick you into paying for junk.
Phishing & fake websites: Emails or messages that look real but are just bait to get your passwords or credit card details.
Spyware & data stealers: Some Mac-targeted malware quietly collects your data, browser habits, or even screenshots.
Rogue configuration profiles & scripts: These can change system settings, block security tools, or open the door to other attacks.
Zero-day threats: New exploits that take advantage of unknown flaws before Apple patches them.
Some of these slip past Apple’s defenses because they don’t behave like “traditional” malware, or they rely on social engineering rather than code injections.
Apple’s security is solid — no doubt. But it focuses mostly on known threats and App Store-only risks. Many modern threats come from:
• Trusted-looking downloads outside the App Store
• Email attachments
• Phishing links
• Drive-by downloads from compromised websites
In fact, researchers have found dozens of Mac-specific malware families in the wild — and many don’t trigger macOS built-in alerts until it’s too late.
Third-party antivirus tools can provide:
✅ Real-time scanning of all downloads and apps
✅ Anti-phishing protection in Safari, Chrome, Firefox
✅ Privacy tools like webcam/mic blockers and trackers detection
✅ Advanced ransomware defenses
✅ Extra cleanup for annoying adware or unwanted extensions
And the best part? Many of them run quietly in the background and won’t slow down your Mac.
If you decide to install antivirus on your Mac, here’s how to choose one that fits your needs:
• Mac-specific focus: Some tools are cross-platform, but the best ones offer features tuned for macOS, not just repackaged Windows software.
• Lightweight performance: Make sure it won’t drain your battery or overwork your processor — Mac users care about smoothness.
• Protection beyond viruses: Look for coverage against phishing, trackers, data leaks, and webcam/mic snooping — not just old-school malware.
• No creepy data collection: Check the privacy policy — some free antivirus apps make money by selling user data. That’s not protection.
• Ease of use: You shouldn’t need a tech degree to feel protected. A clean, simple interface goes a long way.
Your Mac deserves protection — not because it’s weak, but because you value what’s on it. Files, photos, passwords, memories, your digital life. A trusted antivirus adds a quiet but powerful line of defense to keep it all safe.
We recommend installing a dedicated antivirus that’s built with macOS in mind. It takes just a minute — and it might save you from hours of cleanup later.
If you use your Mac for work, shopping, banking, or anything personal — then yes. Built-in protections are helpful but don’t catch everything. Third-party antivirus gives you an extra layer of security and often better phishing protection, privacy tools, and real-time alerts.
Not if you choose a good one. Many modern Mac antiviruses are designed to be lightweight and fast, optimized for Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3). You can even find ones that run background scans when you’re not actively working.
They used to be. But now that millions of people use Macs, malware developers are following the crowd. While macOS is more locked down than Windows, it’s not immune — and it’s often easier to trick users with fake messages than to hack a system directly.