Despite macOS’s longstanding reputation as one of the most secure operating systems, a recent survey reveals that its users encounter cyber threats more frequently than their Windows counterparts, yet paradoxically adopt fewer protective measures. The research, conducted by Kaspersky’s internal research center in March 2026, surveyed 7200 respondents across 18 countries including Russia.
What cyber threats affect macOS users more than Windows users?
The survey data indicates that macOS users worldwide reported higher rates of exposure across multiple threat categories. Phishing attacks affected 12% of macOS device owners compared to 9% of Windows users over the past year. Fraudulent schemes, including investment scams, impacted 16% of macOS users versus 13% of Windows users. Privacy violations affected 11% of macOS users compared to 8% of Windows users, while personal data theft hit 12% of macOS users against just 7% of Windows users.
How do security practices differ between Windows and macOS users?
The research uncovered significant disparities in digital hygiene practices between the two user groups. Windows users demonstrated more cautious behavior, with 62% avoiding suspicious emails or links compared to only 51% of macOS users. Regarding protective solutions, 42% of Windows users employ security software while just 35% of macOS users do the same. This difference in security adoption may partially explain why Windows users experience fewer successful cyberattacks.
What password security measures do users implement?
Password management practices also varied between the platforms. Windows users more frequently create unique passwords for each account (38% versus 35% for macOS), generate complex passwords (52% versus 45%), and utilize two-factor or multi-factor authentication (51% versus 46%). The research recommends using dedicated password managers that store credentials in encrypted form, requiring users to remember only a single master password.
Why are macOS users becoming targets despite platform security?
According to Sergey Puzan, a cybersecurity expert at Kaspersky, the perception that macOS is inherently safer due to its smaller user base or built-in security features no longer reflects current realities. The threat landscape has evolved rapidly, with attackers employing phishing, social engineering techniques, and supply chain attacks that can compromise users across all operating systems within single malicious campaigns. Puzan noted that numerous malware families now specifically target macOS, emphasizing that any internet-connected device requires protection regardless of operating system.
Independent testing has validated that specialized security tools complementing macOS’s built-in mechanisms provide reliable protection. In 2025, AV-TEST recognized Kaspersky Premium as the best protective solution for macOS following an annual cycle of independent testing.
Source: Kaspersky