Kaspersky study finds macOS users face higher cyber risk than Windows

A recent Kaspersky research report highlights a significant security gap between devices running macOS and those using Windows. Although macOS has long been regarded as a safer operating system, 12% of macOS users said they fell victim to malicious software over the past year, compared with 9% of Windows users. Only 35% of macOS owners employ dedicated cybersecurity solutions, versus 42% of Windows users.

The study also shows differences in protective habits: 62% of Windows users avoid opening suspicious emails and links, while only 51% of macOS users do the same. MacOS users reported higher incidences of phishing (12% vs 9%), investment scams (16% vs 13%), privacy breaches (11% vs 8%) and personal data theft (12% vs 7%). Kaspersky experts describe the low adoption of security software among macOS users as concerning and stress the need for stronger anti‑malware and anti‑phishing measures.