Macs get malware. The myth of Mac immunity died around 2012. Here's what actually protects macOS in 2026.
The 'Macs don't get viruses' era is over. MacOS malware incidents have increased every year since 2019 — adware, trojans, and crypto-stealers specifically targeting Apple Silicon and macOS. The problem: most antivirus software is built for Windows first and applies the same engine to Mac. Intego is the notable exception — built exclusively for macOS since 1997. Here's what our testing showed.
Mac users — from casual home users to professionals handling sensitive data — who want verified macOS-specific protection rather than a Windows-first product repackaged for Apple.
Before picking a tool, ask yourself these questions:
Intego is the Mac-specialist choice — built from the ground up for macOS, with a content filter, network monitor, and Mac-specific malware database that Windows-first tools miss. Norton 360 is the best all-rounder for households mixing Mac and Windows devices. Malwarebytes is the best free option for a second-opinion scanner. ESET is the lightweight choice if system performance is your priority.
