Is Your Mac Safe? Ransomware Protection Tips

While ransomware isn’t a widespread threat for Mac users—at least not yet—it’s becoming more likely to spill over from the Windows world. With threats evolving and Mac adoption growing across businesses, it’s smart to stay one step ahead. Here’s what you need to know to stay protected.

Ransomware: A Quick Refresher

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that locks you out of your own data by encrypting it, then demands a payment to restore access. It’s been rampant on Windows systems for years, with attacks like CryptoWall and WannaCry causing major disruptions globally.

Macs haven’t been as heavily targeted, but there have been a few notable examples:

• FileCoder (2014): The first Mac ransomware, but it was incomplete and never posed a real threat.
• KeRanger (2016): The first fully functional ransomware for macOS, hidden inside a compromised version of the Transmission BitTorrent client. It infected an estimated 6,500 users before Apple revoked its certificate and updated XProtect to block it.
• Patcher (2017): Distributed through pirated software, it encrypted files but couldn’t decrypt them – fortunately, no random was reportedly paid.

So far, these cases have been rare, but they serve as a warning. As ransomware evolves, Mac users should remain alert.

Understanding Apple’s Built-In Defences

macOS includes several technologies that help reduce your risk:

Gatekeeper

Gatekeeper helps block malicious apps by allowing only software from the Mac App Store or identified developers to run. It’s effective against most malware, as Apple can revoke compromised developer signatures. Just avoid overriding Gatekeeper unless you completely trust the app and its source.

XProtect

XProtect works in the background, checking apps against Apple’s list of known malware. It’s automatically updated via system data files and security updates. You can check that updates are enabled by going to: System Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates, and making sure “Install Security Responses and system files” is switched on.

Adding an Extra Layer: Anti-Malware Software

Although macOS is more secure than many platforms by design, third-party protection can offer additional reassurance. Apps like Malwarebytes Premium or Intego Mac Internet Security X9 can catch threats Gatekeeper or XProtect might miss—particularly if you’re downloading software outside of the App Store or regularly visiting less reputable sites.

Backups: Your Best Ransomware Defence

Regular backups are essential, but not all backup types are equally safe from ransomware:

What to Watch Out For

Some ransomware (like KeRanger) has attempted to encrypt Time Machine backups and other connected storage, reducing your chances of recovery if all backups are online and accessible.

Best Practice in 2025

• Use versioned, offsite backups: Internet-based services like Backblaze (for home and business) or CrashPlan (for business) store multiple versions of files. That means even if your most recent files are encrypted, older, safe versions can be restored.
• Avoid always-on drives: Backup drives connected 24/7 could be encrypted by ransomware if your system is compromised. Schedule backups rather than keeping volumes mounted continuously.

What to Do If You’re Infected

If you ever find yourself the victim of ransomware:

1. Don’t pay the ransom.
2. Disconnect from the internet immediately to prevent the ransomware from spreading or uploading data.
3. Contact a trusted IT support team—like ours—for help recovering files or identifying restore points.
4. Check if the malware is known: In some cases, there are tools that can decrypt files without needing the attacker’s key (though this is more common in Windows ransomware scenarios for now).

Stay Alert, Stay Up to Date

Mac ransomware is still relatively uncommon, but the risk is growing. You can reduce your exposure by:

• Keeping macOS and security definitions up to date.
• Only installing apps from trusted sources.
• Running regular, versioned backups offsite.
• Considering an anti-malware solution for added peace of mind.

Are you concerned about ransomware or general Mac security? Get in touch with our team for expert support tailored to your setup. Whether you’re a growing business or a creative team juggling large files, we can help you stay protected and productive.