The Myth of macOS's Incredible Security

It is often claimed that hacking Mac computers is impossible, but unfortunately, this is not the case. Although they are attacked less frequently than Windows-based computers, there are many successful examples of hacking Macs using various methods, ranging from fake software to exploiting vulnerabilities. Mac computers are not absolutely protected from malware.


One of the main reasons Windows-based computers are attacked more often is their wider distribution. As of 2022, the share of macOS in the global desktop operating system market was 15%. Cybercriminals tend to choose the path where the likelihood of profit is higher, making Windows users a more attractive target. However, this does not mean that Mac users are not at risk.

Recognizing this risk, Apple has worked hard on the security of its operating system. Here are some of the protective features of macOS:

• Gatekeeper – a technology that allows applications to run only from trusted sources.
• Secure Enclave security features for computers with M1 and M2 chips, as well as T1 and T2, ensuring secure boot and encryption.
• Built-in Apple antivirus system XProtect, which detects and prevents the execution of malware.

Together, these measures create significant barriers for attackers targeting Macs. However, there are always vulnerabilities in security systems known as "zero-day" vulnerabilities that can be exploited for hacking. When security researchers discover such vulnerabilities, they typically inform Apple for a fix before they can be exploited by cybercriminals.

The company responds quickly, but it has sometimes been criticized for its slowness, which leaves users unprotected and allows cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities.


For a time, the Macintosh project team had its own totem animal – a box dog (cow-dog) named Clarus.

How Often Are Mac Computers Hacked?

Hacking MacBooks happens quite rarely, but there are certainly examples of successful attacks. Here are the most notable ones: