Macs come with in-built security settings, but if you don’t use them properly, you’ll leave your privacy and data vulnerable to attacks. If your system is slowing down, apps are crashing, and you can see more adverts than ever, you are probably too late. Your system is already under attack, and you need to remove malware and viruses from your system. If you don’t know how, go to setapp.com.
You can take a few simple steps to protect your Mac from cyber threats and augment system security. Read along to stay protected.
Keep macOS and programs updated
The simplest way to keep your Mac safe from hackers is by keeping the programs and macOS updated. Typically, cybercriminals target outdated software as security vulnerabilities, and in the updated versions, developers patch those issues and fix bugs.
To update macOS, click the Apple icon > select About This Mac > click Software Update and process with the installation instructions. After that, set all future macOS updates to be installed automatically. Go to the Software Update section in System Preferences > select Automatically keep my Mac up to date.
Moreover, ensure all the apps and programs in your Mac are updated.
Change the default security and privacy settings
Your system may have default settings that allow Apple and other applications to view and share your data, including location and data usage.
To change the settings, go to the Security & Privacy section in System Preferences > set a password under the General tab, stop automatic logins, or change the time taken for a password to be required after your system goes into sleep mode.
You can also address a few other privacy settings related to accessing your data, such as calendars, contacts, location, etc. Check if you are sending usage data unknowingly to Apple by clicking Diagnostics & Usage and deselecting the appropriate settings. Uncheck the applications you don’t want accessing your data and select whether you want your system usage data to be sent to Apple.
Install a VPN
VPN or virtual private network disguises original IP addresses and replaces them with an IP address in a different location. It means that websites and hackers cannot trace your connection and find your location. You are completely anonymous online.
VPNs encrypt browsing data, so if hackers are spying on you, they won’t see what you are doing.
You can use VPN for several reasons, like accessing geo-restricted content or when you’re connected to public Wi-Fi and want to safeguard your data.
Use an ad and tracking link blocker
Whether you’re using Safari or Chrome, you can download browser extensions that will help protect you online. These extensions help to block ads and stop websites from tracking your browsing activity. They even work to safeguard you from phishing websites, specifically designed by hackers to imitate popular websites. Phishing websites encourage users to input their login steals and then steal their personal information and accounts.
If you don’t want to install extensions, you can get antivirus software for your Mac. Antivirus programs usually come with ad blockers and tracking link browser extensions in their package, and you can enable it to stay protected while browsing the Internet.
Encrypt your important files
File encryption means securing your crucial data behind a password. For instance, a hacker or thief won’t access your data and sensitive information on your Mac if they are encrypted, and they will need a password to unlock them.
Macs have a built-in encryption tool called FileVault. It makes securing personal information easy and hassle-free. Go to System Preferences > click Security & Privacy > click FileVault > turn on FileVault.
You can avoid forgetting the encryption password and losing access to your important files using your iCloud account. The account can be used to decrypt the files and reset the password if you forget it.
Backup your files
Backing up your files regularly ensures you’ll always have a copy of your crucial documents and files if something happens to your system, including if your Mac gets stolen, lost, or needs repairs.
Backups are easy with Mac’s Time Machine feature. You can use it to regularly back up your files on a separate hard drive so you can restore your Mac without losing data. You can also use other backup options, such as backup features of antivirus programs.
The importance of keeping your Mac safe cannot be harped enough. You need to protect your data at all costs and your system against cyber threats. So, take the security of your Mac seriously.