Can a virus from my old Windows PC transfer to a new iMac during setup migration?

Setting up a new Apple 2024 IMac all in one desk top. I want to transfer the content from my old Acer (Microsoft) computer. I have e a virus on my old computer will a move the virus when I transfer the content during the set up transfer?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Transfer virus with setup??

iMac (M4)

Posted on Jul 17, 2025 10:09 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 17, 2025 10:27 AM

A PC virus cannot infect a Mac.


However, if you have user files that are infected, those files may transfer an infection to other PCs if the files are not cleansed. Use whatever PC anti-virus app is most recommended to scan and remove the threat from your PC before transferring your files to your Mac or to anyone else.


FYI - Your Mac requires no third-party anti-virus or anti-malware software.

Apple has built these protections into macOS and they are updated regularly.

macOS security built right in. - Apple Support   

App Security Overview - Apple Support

4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 17, 2025 10:27 AM in response to Rocgopher

A PC virus cannot infect a Mac.


However, if you have user files that are infected, those files may transfer an infection to other PCs if the files are not cleansed. Use whatever PC anti-virus app is most recommended to scan and remove the threat from your PC before transferring your files to your Mac or to anyone else.


FYI - Your Mac requires no third-party anti-virus or anti-malware software.

Apple has built these protections into macOS and they are updated regularly.

macOS security built right in. - Apple Support   

App Security Overview - Apple Support

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Can a virus from my old Windows PC transfer to a new iMac during setup migration?

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