Low memory alert

I got the same alert the first time I used my M1 mini. I doubt it's malware. I had 2 apps open at the time. This is more common than people make it seem and I'm very disappointed in apple for not fixing this issue. I haven't downloaded any new apps or visited any shady webpages. Anyone have a real solution for this? M1 mini, 16G, 1TB memory.

That does not look right. It's a very sloppy dialog box. This is a possible virus, adware, scareware, etc.

I would recommend running Malwarebytes then EtreCheck after that and posting the EtreCheck report as a reply so we can see whatever might remain that Malwarebytes doesn't remove.

It really look like there might be too many Applications and / or Tabs in your Browser all open at the same time. That, or there are Run Away Processing.

Open Activity Monitor >> View >> View ALL processes. Look in CPU Tab for unusual large amount of CPU usage and then do similar for Memory Tab for Memory Usage. This will allow you to Identify the culprit and decide what to do about it - Force Quit or check if the Application needs updating to Big Sur Compatible - if required.

Sometimes, a restart alone with clear the Memory especially if the computer has not be restarted after many days, weeks of usage.

If Adware or Malware is the source >>

1 - Suggest downloading the Application Etrecheck directly from a Trusted Developer and well Respected ASC Contributor. The application is free or paid from added features. Run the application with Full Disc Access ( Security & Privacy - Full Disc Access ). It will take a Snap Shot -  both the hardware and software. The Report will Not Reveal Any Personal Information. Post back the Full Report - copy and paste - using the Additional Text Icon ( 3rd Icon to last )

We can have a look at the report for possible issues and may have possible suggestions to resolve the issues.

Any Third Party Applications that will interfere with the normal operation of the OS, alter, modify, remove or delete or attempt to do so is an invitation for disaster and may require a Reinstallation of the OS.

2 - Suggest downloading from a Trusted Developer and Respected ASC Contributor the application Malwarebytes for Mac. It is free or paid for added features. Run the Application and it should remove the malware / adware. Once done, restart computer and test.

There are no known Viruses in the wild that self replicate and affect macOS. There are Malware and Adware that does affect macOS and are often times downloaded as part of an Application from Third Party UnTrusted Site and get installed along with the Application.

Again, that is NOT an Apple Dialog Box. That is something else. It's sloppy, the text isn't aligned.

I have the very same M1 Mac mini, typing on it right now. I have zero problems with low memory. You need to publish an EtreCheck as additional text as this can be malware related. There are many known adware/malware infections that cause this dialog.

Good Point