Do you need antivirus on a Mac?
Quick answer
For most people, no. Your Mac already has malware protection built in, so keep its automatic security updates switched on and get apps only from the App Store or developers you trust.
Why it happens
macOS checks apps before they open and blocks known harmful software on its own. Apple updates that protection quietly in the background, as long as the security updates switch is on. The bigger risk is being talked into installing something, so where you get apps matters most.
How to fix it
Open System Settings from the Apple menu, click General, then Software Update.
General›Software Update
Click the ⓘ button next to Automatic updates and make sure Install system data files and security updates is on. Click Done.
General›Software Update›Automatic updates ⓘ›Install system data files and security updates
In Privacy & Security, scroll to Security and check that Allow applications from is set to App Store or App Store & Known Developers. Leave it there.
Privacy & Security›Security›Allow applications from
Download apps from the App Store or straight from the developer's own website, never from pop-ups or links in messages you didn't expect.
Still not fixed?
A web page saying your Mac is infected is a scam. Close the tab or quit the browser with Command-Q, and never call the number or install what it offers.
If something odd starts with your Mac, look in General, under Login Items & Extensions, at Open at Login. Remove anything you don't recognise with the minus button.
General›Login Items & Extensions›Open at Login
Install any waiting macOS update from Software Update. Each one includes the latest security fixes.
Want extra antivirus anyway? It's optional. If you choose one, get it from the App Store or the maker's own site.
If you think someone else has control of your Mac, or strange pop-ups keep coming back after all this, contact Apple Support.
Questions people ask
Does a Mac have built-in antivirus?
Yes. macOS checks apps before they open and blocks known malware, and it updates that protection by itself when security updates are on.
Can a Mac get a virus?
It can, usually through an app you're tricked into installing. Getting apps from the App Store or trusted developers avoids most of it.
What should I do if a website says my Mac is infected?
Close the tab or quit the browser. It's a scam, so don't call the number or download anything it offers.
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