MacBook Security Guide
If you were to compare macOS to other operating systems, Apple does a great job at fighting against potential cybersecurity threats.
MacBook users pay a premium fee, but they can boast of having a device that excels in fending off against malware, ransomware, and other security problems.
Having said that, one should not dismiss the possibility of a cybersecurity threat just because they have a Mac. Reliability is there, but it does not guarantee complete safety.
You still need to take the necessary measures and boost the MacBook security.
To help with that, here are 7 useful tips as Macbook security guide.
1. Update the System
The first thing you want is to enable automatic system updates. Some cybersecurity threats specifically target computers with outdated software and hardware.
Besides, keeping macOS up to date also means that the overall performance of a MacBook is better. If you have been tinkering with your Mac to increase its speed and run out of ideas, looking for more tips to help with the problem often takes you to articles that suggest updating software.
macOS developers react to the latest threats and push hotfixes that users should not ignore. So if you do not react to notifications about new available software versions, make sure to enable auto-updates on your MacBook.
2. Be Smart About Passwords
Passwords that you use online should not be simple combinations that others can crack. No, you want to include symbols, capital letters, and so on. It is recommended to use an automated password generator so that you avoid potential patterns, especially if you have multiple online accounts.
Another rule of thumb is to never use the password for different profiles. In addition, you should get in the habit of changing passwords regularly.
Finally, if you find it difficult to memorize all your passwords, use a password manager to store the information.
It might get a tad annoying at times to switch and type different passwords, but it is necessary if you want to be safe on the internet.
3. Use a Non-Admin Account
Giving full access to the device is not a good approach if you have someone else using your MacBook.
It makes sense to create a non-admin account that restricts certain activities, such as removing or installing any software.
To create a new user on a MacBook, open System Preferences, click on Users & Groups, and select the plus sign next to the “create a new user” option.
4. Get Rid of Automatic Login
Automatic login allows you to use a MacBook without needing to enter the password each time you boot the device. Many people skip the step to protect a computer with their password because they want the device to load faster.
Enabling automatic login is fine if you are the only one using the computer and you stay with it at home. However, it is different if there are others who might be using the MacBook. Not to mention that you might be traveling, and if someone swipes your Mac, they will have a much easier time accessing the computer’s contents.
Entering a password is not that bothersome, so you should not be reluctant to disable the automatic login feature.
5. Back Up Data
Data backups are not a direct way to counter malware and other threats, but it should be a no-brainer why having a copy of important files is necessary.
One also has to note that MacBook files can disappear from the device for reasons other than cybersecurity issues. You or someone else might delete a file accidentally. Power outages and hardware problems could also cause these issues.
As a MacBook owner, you can use Time Machine in combination with an external hard drive. Or, if you prefer a more digital approach, keep files on iCloud.
6. Avoid Shady URLs
Since there are so many different cybersecurity threats, it is necessary to identify potential sources of encountering one.
Shady URLs you might see online are a good example. You need to be wary of what you click.
If possible, use an internet browser that has a built-in ad blocker extension, or get Google Chrome and download the extension for the browser.
When you receive a suspicious email or a message on platforms like Discord, ignore them if they ask you to click on a link, and the URL looks shady.
7. Enable the Firewall
The last bit of advice is about the Firewall. It is likely that the Firewall on your Mac is disabled. To create an extra security layer that blocks unwanted connections and requests, you should enable the Firewall.
The Firewall tab can be found in the Security and Privacy tab. Access the tab, and you will be asked to authenticate the feature with the device’s admin account. Enter the credentials to get the Firewall working.
See also: IoT Scanner- is your device or system vulnerable to DoS cyber attacks ?
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ABOUT AUTHOR:
Edvinas
