Apple computerowners have long felt free to roam the internet without a care in the world.
Prevailing wisdom would have you believe thatApples Macsare completely immune from viruses.
However, Macs absolutely can get viruses.
Macs can get viruses too.Photo: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg (Getty Images)
The myth that Macs dont get viruses has been around for a long time.
Researchers discoveredthe first Apple firmware virusesin 2015.
Origins of the Myth
I have that virus thats going around, said the PC man.
You better stay back, this ones a doozy.
Thats okay, Long said.
Apple proudly boasted on its website that the Mac doesnt get PC viruses, until 2012.
The claim Apple was making was true, and Apple computers did not commonly get viruses until the mid-2010s.
There were likely even fewer Macs in 2006 when the Get a Mac ads started.
Even today, only 20% of the world uses a Mac.
Today, its becoming more common for Macs to get viruses.
The companys large user base is now worth hackers going after them.
Yes, Apple does have security protections in place, but its not like PCs dont as well.
So it was really Apple who started this myth with its own clever marketing.
Its like a small car company saying its cars crash less than Ford.
Why Its Pervasive
The idea that Apples computers are virus-proof feels like it should be true.
Virus-free fits the vibe, but its simply not the case.
When Apples Macs did start getting viruses, the company did little to correct the narrative it had created.
Instead, Apple let this myth run amuck.
The company was a little over its head, so it just stayed quiet.
All of Apples products are susceptible to hackers and viruses, just like any other connected gear.
These days, Apple has a Protect your Mac from malware page tucked into its website.
The company has lots of security tips for how to keep your system safe.
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