Only you can determine if you 'need' an anti-malware program. Even after all of this, I know I am not completely safe. I try to get all of my software from the Apple Mac Store, and I use zero plug-ins or extensions in my browser. I don't got to questionable sites, I check for expired certificates, rarely click on links in emails, and only download executable code from trusted sources. However, my online behavior is typically risk adverse. I personally don't run any anti-malware program on my systems, and I only use the default Microsoft Defender on Windows. Even the best behaved online patrons have fallen victim to malware threats, regardless of platform, so don't assume you are completely safe. The best defense against malware, regardless of OS or platform, is online behavior. While it is true, that macOS malware is comparatively 'rare' compared to Windows, that does not mean it is not a concern. Never install anything from a browser prompt.įinally there are several Mac OS AV software available like Sophos free which you can run occasionally to make sure there is nothing on your Mac. Only install software from Apple App Store or very trusted software platforms like Adobe and even then you need to make sure the website is legit. So if you can train yourself not to fall for the many techniques malware will try to install with your permission.Ī general rule. Once infected a lot of adware opens a back door into your system where they can download more malware later. You install it thinking it is an update and BAM you are infected. For example lets say you visit a Porn website and you get a warning that you need to update your browser or OS etc. I would not use an antivirus software on a Mac but I also am very careful about what I install and from where. There is other forms of malware that are more a threat to Macs like adware and trojans. The only way for a virus to install on your Mac is to actually install it yourself. On a Windows system there are drive by attacks which mean that a virus can install just by visiting a malicious website. There are fundamental security differences between Windows and MacOS.

Do we need antivirus for macbook pro