Why do Macs get less viruses than PCs?

Part of the long-held belief that Macs are less susceptible to viruses comes from the simple fact that there are fewer Macs than PCs. Criminals create viruses to make money off the cyberattack — it makes sense to go after the PC first, as it’s the bigger target, and therefore holds higher potential value.

Are PCs more susceptible to viruses than Macs?

Let’s get one thing straight: Mac users are less likely to be targeted by hackers and cyber criminals than PC users. But that doesn’t mean Macs are definitively more secure than PCs. Macs do get viruses and they’re just as vulnerable as PCs. …

Can Macs get the same kind of viruses that PC get?

Yes, Macs can — and do — get viruses and other forms of malware. And while Mac computers are less vulnerable to malware than PCs, the built-in security features of macOS are not enough to protect Mac users against all online threats. Keep reading for the full lowdown on Mac malware.

Why is it harder for Macs to get viruses?

Target Market of Viruses Apple has been criticized by many for opting for “security through minority.” This basically means that Macs are more secure than Windows machines because they have less exposure—that there are simply less Macs around to develop viruses for.

Are Macs more virus resistant?

Despite what some people may say, there’s nothing inherent in how OS X is built that makes it much more resistant to viruses or malware. Essentially, Macs are safer because statistically you’re less likely to be infected due to the lower number of viruses built to infect OS X.

Why are viruses more prevalent on PCs than on multiuser systems?

Viruses are more likely to infect PCs than UNIX or other multi-user systems, because programs in the latter systems have limited authority to modify other programs or to access critical system structures ( such as the boot block. )

Can iPhone get viruses?

Fortunately for Apple fans, iPhone viruses are extremely rare, but not unheard of. While generally secure, one of the ways iPhones may become vulnerable to viruses is when they are ‘jailbroken’. Jailbreaking an iPhone is a bit like unlocking it — but less legitimate.

Are Macs immune to viruses?

So, no, Macs are not immune to viruses. And as they become more popular it will become ever more apparent just how dangerous this myth is. If you’re a Mac user or your employees use them in your business, it’s better to install anti-virus software than it is to rely on blind faith.

How do Macs get viruses?

Fake apps and updates In most cases, Mac virus developers try to lure you into downloading a fake app or a software update. However, when this happens, you won’t get the software you were hoping for. Instead, your Mac will get malware.

Do PCs get viruses?

How a Computer Gets a Virus. There are several ways a computer can get infected by a virus and most of them involve downloading – either intentionally or unintentionally – infected files. Pirated music or movies, photos, free games and toolbars are common culprits, as are phishing/spammy emails with attachments.