Are Macs Really Safer Against Cyberthreats?
How often have you heard people say they want to buy an Apple MacBook or iMac because it’s more secure? Is this a myth, or are Macs really safer against cyberthreats than Microsoft Windows PCs? The truth lies somewhere in the middle.
How Mac Earned its Reputation for Security
Apple exercises immense control over its hardware and employs a closed platform approach to software development, limiting how developers can interact with macOS. The company has also traditionally been more risk-averse than Microsoft, baking security controls directly into its platform. For instance, the M1 chip is considered very secure, the underlying Unix system is difficult to exploit, and Apple’s built-in antivirus software is top-shelf. Macs also have privacy protection protocols that give them an edge over PCs.
Why Mac Security is Unraveling
For years, Mac users enjoyed peace of mind from feeling impervious to cyberthreats. However, despite the perceived reputation for enhanced security, the biggest reason Macs are less prone to attacks is because the platform has fewer users. Windows operating systems simply offer a greater return for cybercriminals because of their massive market share. Still, the rising popularity of macOS makes it an increasingly attractive target for hackers. As a result, more Mac users are falling pretty to viruses, malware, and web threats than ever before.
How Windows Security Compares
To be clear, Macs are slightly more secure than PCs, thanks to their built-in features and closed development. And even though security risks are growing for Mac users, the threat level remains relatively low compared to Windows computers. Windows Vista and Windows 7 remain the most malware-targeted operating systems, largely due to their popularity. If you prefer PCs over Macs, upgrading to Windows 10 could help reduce your risk.
How to Boost Cybersecurity
Most people assume their computer comes equipped to handle cybersecurity attacks, whether they purchase a Mac or a PC. This is simply not the case. No level of inherent security features can protect a computer from user error, loss, or theft.
Consider that the simple act of browsing the internet is one of today’s biggest cybersecurity threats. The browser itself and any add-ons or plug-ins you install may put your device at risk. Then, clicking “Yes” on a pop-up message before reading it is an easy way for malware to infect your Mac or PC. This is why you must take steps to secure your device, regardless of what platform you use.
First, follow cybersecurity best practices. This includes setting up passwords and two-step authentication, browsing the web with a virtual private network (VPN), using a firewall, and installing computer security software. Then, team up with a cybersecurity specialist for extra help.
Red Panda Systems can safeguard your Mac or PC with advanced firewall protection, cybersecurity audits and assessments, monitoring services, and much more. Our customers rely on us for our responsiveness, communication, and trust. Don’t wait until the next cyberthreat strikes—contact us today to request a consultation and quote for cybersecurity services in Las Vegas.