MacPaw, renowned for its popular CleanMyMac software, has unveiled a new standalone security application tailored specifically for macOS users, named Moonlock. This innovative tool integrates real-time malware protection, a built-in VPN, and insightful security features, all presented in a design that seamlessly aligns with the macOS aesthetic. Moonlock promises to safeguard your Mac without inundating your menu bar with notifications or compromising system performance.
Moonlock is here — a new protection app made specifically for Mac users.
Lightweight, intuitive, and built with years of macOS research behind it.No complicated menus. No guessing what your antivirus actually does.
Just clear guidance and strong protection that feels right at… pic.twitter.com/gZFG366WQr— Moonlock by MacPaw (@moonlock_com) October 28, 2025
The introduction of Moonlock is particularly significant as it addresses a long-held belief among Mac users that their devices are largely immune to malware threats. This perception is increasingly being challenged.
- Recent findings from MacPaw’s Moonlock Survey reveal that 66% of Mac users encountered a cyber threat last year, with malware detections rising by 20% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
- Moonlock aims to counter these threats by providing robust protection without the need for complex setups, additional extensions, or cumbersome dashboards.
- With the rise in phishing schemes, harmful downloads, and spyware infiltrating browsers, the launch of Moonlock comes at a crucial time.
Moonlock distinguishes itself from traditional antivirus solutions by offering a comprehensive suite of security features. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Real-time protection: Operates quietly in the background, continuously scanning for malware and suspicious downloads, even when the app is closed.
- Smart Scan: Evaluates system vulnerabilities, identifies outdated applications, and flags weak settings that could be exploited by hackers.
- Built-in VPN: Features a kill switch, region selector, and automatic encryption for connections on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Network Inspector: Allows users to monitor which applications are transmitting data and to block traffic to specific regions.
- Security Advisor: Provides practical tips for enhancing security, such as strengthening passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and managing app permissions.
- Smart Insights: Generates clear, understandable reports, steering clear of technical jargon.
All these features are elegantly packaged in MacPaw’s signature minimalist style, ensuring that Moonlock remains lightweight, efficient, and distinctly aligned with the Mac user experience. For those interested in exploring Moonlock, it is available for per year for a single Mac, with a seven-day free trial offered to new users. This pricing is competitive with other leading antivirus solutions like Bitdefender and Malwarebytes, which typically emphasize cross-platform capabilities or enterprise-level management.
