A global survey by Kaspersky suggests that Mac users reported more malware infections, phishing incidents and online scams than Windows users over the past year, despite being less likely to use dedicated security software.
For years, Apple’s macOS operating system has enjoyed a reputation for being more secure than Windows. However, a new survey from cybersecurity company Kaspersky suggests that Mac users may be underestimating online risks and leaving themselves more exposed to cybercriminals.
According to the findings, 12% of macOS users reported malware infections, compared with 9% of Windows users. The survey also found that Mac users reported more phishing incidents, online scams, privacy violations and personal data theft.
The results highlight a potential gap between the perception of Mac security and the everyday precautions users take to protect their devices. <Cite refs={[“turn307122search0″,”turn307122search1”]}/>
Mac users report more malware and phishing incidents
Kaspersky’s survey found that 12% of macOS respondents had experienced phishing during the previous year, compared with 9% of Windows users. Phishing attacks typically involve fraudulent emails, messages or websites designed to trick people into revealing passwords, financial information or other sensitive data.
Mac users also reported higher rates of scams and investment fraud. According to the study, 16% of macOS users experienced these incidents, compared with 13% of Windows users.
Privacy violations were reported by 11% of Mac users, against 8% of Windows users. Personal data theft showed another notable difference, affecting 12% of macOS respondents compared with 7% of those using Windows.
These figures reflect incidents reported by survey participants rather than a technical measurement of every attack against the two operating systems. Nevertheless, the findings indicate that users of both platforms face substantial online risks. <Cite refs={[“turn307122search0″,”turn307122search2”]}/>
Windows users adopt more security measures
One of the most significant findings concerns how people protect their devices and online accounts.
Only 35% of macOS users said they use dedicated security software, compared with 42% of Windows users. Kaspersky also found that Windows users were more likely to avoid suspicious emails and links: 62% said they followed this practice, compared with 51% of Mac users.
Password security showed a similar pattern. Windows users were more likely to report using complex passwords, with 52% doing so compared with 45% of macOS users. The use of unique passwords for different accounts was reported by 38% of Windows users and 35% of Mac users.
Multi-factor authentication was also more common among Windows respondents, at 51%, compared with 46% of macOS users.
The results suggest that confidence in a platform’s built-in security features should not replace basic cybersecurity habits. Even a well-protected operating system cannot prevent every user from being tricked into handing over their login details or installing malicious software.
Why macOS is not immune to cyberattacks
macOS includes security technologies designed to reduce the risk posed by malicious applications and other threats. However, these protections do not make the platform invulnerable.
Cybercriminals can target users through fake login pages, malicious downloads, fraudulent support messages and compromised software supply chains. Some campaigns can affect users across different operating systems, while other malware is developed specifically to target Mac computers.
Kaspersky cybersecurity expert Sergey Puzan warned that the threat landscape has evolved and that Mac-specific malware is no longer uncommon. He stressed that internet-connected devices require appropriate protection regardless of their operating system. <Cite refs={[“turn307122search0″,”turn307122search2”]}/>
The survey covered 18 countries
The research was conducted by Kaspersky’s market research centre in 2026 and involved 7,200 respondents across 18 countries. The countries included Brazil, China, Colombia, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam.
As with any survey, the findings depend on respondents’ recollections and understanding of the incidents they experienced. They should not be interpreted as proof that macOS is inherently less secure than Windows in every situation.
Instead, the results provide a picture of reported experiences and security practices among the people surveyed. <Cite refs={[“turn307122search0″,”turn307122search1”]}/>
How Mac and Windows users can improve their security
Security experts recommend a few practical steps for users of both platforms:
- Keep software updated: Install operating system and application updates promptly to address known vulnerabilities.
- Check links before opening them: Verify website addresses and be cautious of unexpected messages requesting personal information.
- Use unique passwords: Avoid reusing the same password across multiple accounts, and consider using a reputable password manager.
- Enable multi-factor authentication: Add another layer of protection to important accounts.
- Download applications carefully: Prefer trusted sources and check the legitimacy of developers and websites.
- Review security settings: Use the protection tools available in the operating system and consider whether additional security software is appropriate for your needs.
Conclusion
Kaspersky’s findings challenge the assumption that Mac users can afford to be less cautious online. Although macOS includes built-in security protections, survey respondents using the platform reported more malware infections and several other types of cyber incidents than Windows users.
The central message is that no operating system can replace good cybersecurity habits. Keeping devices updated, recognising phishing attempts, protecting passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication remain important for Mac and Windows users alike.
