Kaspersky study finds macOS users face higher cyber threat rates

A Kaspersky study involving 7,200 people across 18 countries suggests that macOS users may experience higher rates of cyber threats compared to Windows users, despite the operating system's reputation for superior security.

Data indicates that 12% of macOS users reported being victims of malware in the last year, compared to 9% of Windows users. The study highlights a gap between perceived security and actual user behavior. For instance, only 35% of macOS users report using dedicated security software, while 42% of Windows users do so.

Regarding specific threats, 12% of Mac users reported falling victim to phishing, versus 9% for Windows users. Additionally, 16% of macOS users reported investment fraud and scams, compared to 13% of Windows users. Personal data theft affected 12% of Mac users against 7% of Windows users, and privacy violations were reported by 11% of macOS users compared to 8% of Windows users. The findings suggest that Windows users tend to adopt more proactive security measures, such as avoiding suspicious emails or calls, a practice used by 62% of Windows users but only 51% of macOS users.