If M3 iMacs don't need malware protection, why does the App Store sell it?

Rider302 wrote:

If M3 iMacs don't need malware protection, why does the App Store sell it? Not trying to be a smart aleck, just trying to be careful.

They sell it because they make money from the sale.

This user tip may be helpful:

Effective defenses against malware and ot… - Apple Community

The bar for a developer to meet the requirements for the App Store are low. Apple can still pull an app from the store if they receive too many negative reviews. So, the develepers will do everything they can to show that they are providing value to your purchase so you are happy and provide a positive review. You may even see a claim that a virus was prevented or a scan was completed and everything is fine followed by a prompt to review the app.

You may or may not remember the app called "I am Rich" that was launched in 2008 and cost $999.99. That app did nothing but provide a pathetic affirmation when you tapped the big red gem. It met the requirement to be accepted into the App Store at the time, but was later removed due to bad reviews.

As with any store, it always comes down to the users doing their due diligence to determine if any purchase is going to be beneficial to them. Apple is not recommending the apps or rating them, that is done by the users.

Also, some companies require it before attaching your computer to their network.

And just to be technical, Apple neither sells or recommends any AV software of any kind. The developer who wrote the app is selling it.

Any such junk is in the App Store because:

1. As BobTheFisherman noted, Apple makes money on every sale.
2. The app(s) passed the requirements to be allowed in the App Store.

That's it.

Some companies require it, although that is become more unusual. Is there a specific type of app you are considering, if so which?