A recent survey by Kaspersky highlights a growing concern regarding macOS cyber threats, revealing that Apple users report more malware infections than Windows users. Specifically, 12% of macOS users reported malware infections over the past year. Meanwhile, only 9% of Windows users reported similar incidents during the same period.
This trend occurs despite the long-standing reputation of Apple devices as highly secure options. However, the data indicates a significant protection gap between the two operating systems. Consequently, security experts suggest that user behavior plays a critical role in these outcomes.
Survey Reveals macOS Cyber Threats
The study, conducted in 2026, surveyed 7,200 respondents across 18 countries, including Saudi Arabia. Notably, the findings show that Windows users generally adopt stronger security practices. For instance, 62% of Windows users avoid opening suspicious emails or links. In contrast, only 51% of macOS users follow this safety practice.
This behavioral gap extends to the installation of dedicated security software. While 42% of Windows users install digital protection tools, only 35% of macOS users do the same. As a result, macOS devices remain vulnerable to evolving digital risks.
Discrepancies in Security Software Adoption
Security experts from Kaspersky state that the low adoption rate of security software among Apple users is concerning. Many users believe that Apple devices do not require additional protection. However, modern cybersecurity threats target all platforms through sophisticated social engineering tactics.
To address these vulnerabilities, installing dedicated security solutions is highly recommended. For example, independent tests by AV-TEST in 2025 recognized Kaspersky Premium for macOS as a top-performing security solution. This software provides real-time detection to complement the built-in defenses of Apple computers.
Phishing and Financial Scams on the Rise
The survey also highlights specific incidents where Apple users suffered higher rates of victimization. Specifically, 12% of macOS respondents fell victim to phishing attacks, compared to 9% of Windows users. Furthermore, macOS users experienced more investment frauds and scams, registering 16% compared to 13% for Windows.
Other macOS cyber threats also affected Apple users more frequently. Privacy violations impacted 11% of macOS users, while only 8% of Windows users reported such issues. Additionally, personal data theft affected 12% of macOS users compared to 7% of Windows users.
Password Management and Credential Security
Credential safety represents another area where Windows users demonstrate better habits. For example, 38% of Windows users use unique passwords for each account, compared to 35% of macOS users. Moreover, 52% of Windows users create complex passwords, while only 45% of macOS users do so.
Multi-factor authentication adoption also differs between the two user bases. Specifically, 51% of Windows users enable this feature, compared to 46% of macOS users. Using a dedicated password manager, such as Kaspersky Password Manager, can help secure these credentials on computers.
Sergey Puzan, a cybersecurity expert at Kaspersky, stated that the threat environment has evolved. Attackers now use supply chain attacks and phishing to target users of any operating system. Consequently, any device connected to the internet requires active security software to prevent macOS cyber threats.
