Why macOS Security Matters More Than Ever

For years, many people believed in the popular myth that “Macs don’t get viruses.” This perception is false. Rooted in the platform’s early days of limited market share, this idea painted macOS as a safe haven from cyberthreats. Today, macOS devices are ubiquitous in personal and professional environments, making them prime cyberthreat targets. The reality is that no system is immune to attack. As Apple’s popularity has surged, so has the interest of cybercriminals. IT professionals must secure macOS endpoints like they would with any windows device.

Growing popularity, growing risks

macOS devices are experiencing a healthy growth adoption, both at home and in the workplace. Businesses are increasingly incorporating Macs into their IT environments, driven by user preference and Apple’s reputation for innovative design, exceptional performance and robust reliability. With their seamless ecosystem and polished user experience, macOS devices have become integral to operations ranging from creative design projects to administrative workflows.

However, the popularity of macOS devices has not gone unnoticed by cybercriminals. They’re capitalizing on the false sense of security many users and IT teams still hold to enable their attacks. Sophisticated malware campaigns, phishing schemes and targeted attacks are on the rise, putting macOS users at greater risk than ever before. That’s why businesses must re-evaluate their approach to protecting macOS devices by adopting proactive measures.

Misconceptions about built-in security

macOS boasts built-in security features, like Gatekeeper, which verifies the authenticity of apps, and XProtect, which provides basic malware detection. These features, along with the preconceived notion that macOS devices are “safer,” have left businesses in a dangerous position. These built-in features lack the advanced capabilities needed to counter today’s rapidly evolving attack vectors.

As IT teams face increasing pressure from a rising tide of zero-day exploits, AI-driven phishing attempts and sophisticated ransomware that eludes traditional defenses, it is clear that businesses must not neglect security around macOS devices. Proactively addressing the vulnerabilities that come with allowing macOS devices to connect to a company’s network is critical for mitigating all kinds of cyber-risks.

Common threats facing macOS devices

As macOS has gained popularity in both personal and professional environments, it has become a lucrative target for cybercriminals. Here are just some of the most prevalent dangers macOS users face today:

1. Adware

Adware is one of the most widespread threats targeting macOS users. This intrusive software bombards devices with unwanted advertisements, slowing system performance and frustrating users. Even more worrisome, adware can also serve as a gateway for more dangerous malware by redirecting users to malicious websites or stealing browsing data to make it easy for bad actors to target users with phishing campaigns.

2. Ransomware

The rise of ransomware has extended to macOS, and it continues. For example, in late 2024, observers noted that at least one unnamed ransomware group has been concentrating on creating malware targeting macOS devices using the LockBit 3.0 builder (aka LockBit Black) that was released by a disgruntled former member of the eponymous ransomware gang in March 2022. The appearance of ransomware targeting Macs signals a shift in cybercriminals’ focus, debunking the myth of macOS invincibility.

3. Phishing and credential theft

macOS users are increasingly targeted by phishing schemes designed to steal sensitive information including passwords, credit card details or corporate credentials. These attacks often rely on social engineering tactics like spoofed emails or fraudulent login pages to deceive users into sharing their private data. Without proper user education and safeguards, phishing can easily compromise even the most secure macOS environments.

4. Trojans

Trojan malware disguised as legitimate software is also a significant risk to macOS users. Trojans can kick off a wide variety of malicious activities, including data theft, unauthorized access or the installation of ransomware. Many Trojans are distributed via pirated software or fake updates, making vigilance and caution essential when downloading applications.

5. Exploitation of system weaknesses

Unpatched systems are always an attractive target for attackers. Cybercriminals exploit weaknesses in outdated software to gain unauthorized access to devices or networks. These exploits can allow attackers to escalate privileges, deploy malware or exfiltrate sensitive data, making timely updates and patch management critical for macOS security.

3 major security gaps for businesses using macOS

To protect macOS devices, businesses must adopt a multilayered security strategy that ticks all the right boxes: endpoint detection and response (EDR) combined with antivirus, regular patch management, advanced threat intelligence and ongoing user education. Proactively addressing these possible weak spots ensures that macOS devices are not only functional but also resilient against modern cyberthreats, such as:

1. Hybrid environment challenges

Many businesses operate hybrid environments with both Mac and Windows devices. This creates unique challenges for IT teams tasked with managing security across diverse operating systems. Ensuring consistent protection for Macs often requires additional tools and expertise.

2. Lack of centralized solutions

Unlike Windows, which benefits from a wealth of centralized security solutions, macOS has historically lacked comparable options. This disparity forces IT teams to cobble together solutions, increasing complexity and leaving gaps in security coverage.

3. Need for advanced security tools

To combat modern threats, IT professionals need endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools combined with antivirus (AV) software. These tools offer many advantages to defenders, including real-time detection, quick remediation and advanced threat analysis, ensuring macOS devices are protected against even the most sophisticated attacks.

Datto AV now supports macOS

Datto AV and EDR are already a legendary combination. Now, Datto has raised the bar again by extending Datto AV to macOS devices. With this expansion, IT professionals can protect macOS devices and Windows systems with ease, making it simple and seamless to support a comprehensive security strategy in a mixed-device environment.

Datto AV for macOS

Datto AV serves as your business’s frontline defense, delivering next-generation antivirus protection with unmatched effectiveness. Datto AV for macOS is designed to provide continuous, proactive protection against a wide range of threats. Its features include:

• Malware detection and prevention: Effectively identifies and blocks malware, including adware and spyware, before it can compromise systems.
• Real-time threat monitoring: Offers continuous protection against both known and emerging threats, leveraging advanced detection algorithms.

Datto EDR for macOS

Datto EDR is an unparalleled endpoint detection and response solution that has stopped advanced threats on Macs since its inception in 2022. But don’t just take our word for it. In testing by Miercom, a global leader in cybersecurity evaluation, Datto EDR combined with Datto AV achieved a 99.62% detection and prevention rate against all malware. Datto EDR for macOS delivers the tools and intelligence that IT teams need, including:

• Real-time threat detection and remediation: Quickly identifies and neutralizes advanced threats, such as ransomware and zero-day vulnerabilities, minimizing potential damage.
• Detailed incident insights: Provides in-depth data to streamline investigation and accelerate response times, reducing downtime and risk exposure.
• Protection against advanced threats: Shields devices from sophisticated attack vectors that traditional antivirus solutions may not detect.

Key benefits for MSPs

Managed service providers (MSPs) gain several benefits from incorporating Datto AV and EDR for macOS into their service offerings, such as:

• Enhanced client security: Deliver enterprise-grade protection for businesses using macOS, addressing a critical need in mixed IT environments.
• Simplified endpoint management: Manage macOS and Windows devices through a unified platform, streamlining operations and reducing complexity.
• Comprehensive risk reduction: Provide a cohesive security approach that mitigates risks across all endpoints, enhancing uptime and reducing operational disruptions.

With Datto AV and EDR for macOS, MSPs can confidently address the growing adoption of macOS devices in business settings, delivering unparalleled protection and peace of mind for their clients.

Learn how Datto AV and EDR can enhance your security with a demo. Book it today!