Do MacBook users need additional protection against viruses?

MacBook devices provide their users with built-in protection tools that may spare a large segment of them from needing to use external anti-virus programs, but the effectiveness of these tools remains dependent on the way the devices are used and the sources of downloading applications.

According to what was reported by the American “BGR” website, the “macOS” operating system relies on an arsenal of security technologies designed to monitor and neutralize suspicious software, among which stand out are the “Gatekeeper” and “XProtect” tools, as well as precise mechanisms to verify the integrity of applications before allowing them to run. This system works across multiple levels, ranging from restricting the operation of untrusted programs to detecting malware and dealing with it immediately.

In the same context, experiences shared by users on the Reddit platform show the efficiency of default protection tools, as one user confirmed that he spent 15 years using Mac devices in isolation from external protection programs – with the exception of his first year, which did not result in detecting any threats -, noting at the same time that downloading files and applications from external sources doubles the security risks.

Despite this, the BGR report indicated that Apple devices may be exposed to electronic attacks or malicious software, which makes the use of external protection programs a useful option for users who are accustomed to constantly downloading files from unknown sites, or rely on programs that are not offered in the App Store.

Among the available security options, the report pointed to programs such as ESET, Surfshark, Avira, AVG, and Bitdefender. However, the site warns that installing additional applications does not represent an absolute guarantee of security, since some security tools, system cleaners, and virtual network (VPN) services may cause technical conflicts with the operating system.

The press treatment concludes that prevention remains primarily dependent on ensuring that the system is constantly updated, and that applications are downloaded exclusively from reliable sources, in addition to avoiding suspicious files and links of unknown origin. Accordingly, general MacBook users do not need additional anti-virus software, while more vulnerable users may benefit from them, provided they choose reliable programs that meet their actual needs.