We’re living in an era when issues like data protection and privacy are getting the priority and attention they have always deserved. Cybersecurity isn’t as complicated as has been presented by some experts. Data breaches, virus & malware attacks, unnecessary surveillance, and various other cybersecurity issues threaten user privacy like never before. However, advancement in the field of IT has given us numerous security options and tools to safeguard our privacy.
Protecting your Mac is easier than you ever imagined as only a few smart steps, including the use of security applications and tools, can prevent leakage of sensitive data. All Mac devices have an in-built security setting, which, if used effectively, can secure them against a wide range of cyberattacks. However, Apple’s security feature cannot guarantee 100% protection against the latest cybersecurity threats.
Use only updated OS and programs
Keeping everything up to date is no special tip but the most basic and simplest one to prevent hacking attempts and keep your data safe. Hackers and scammers usually target the outdated software as they’re confident of finding security vulnerabilities, which developers tend to patch via updates.
Updating macOS to its latest version is easy, and you simply need to click on Apple’s icon at the top left corner of the screen, go to the tab ‘About This Mac’ and then proceed to ‘Software Update.’ Now proceed as you’re prompted during the installation process.
After completing the Mac OS update, the OS X updates can be automatically installed by choosing the option ‘Automatically keep my Mac up to date’ within the System Preferences tab. Keeping your apps and programs update is equally comfortable. You can simply go to the tab App Store within the System Preferences and turn on the ‘Automatically check for updates and the Install app updates’ option.
Make changes to default settings
The default settings of apps could pose a risk. Location and usage data are also accessed by these apps and shared without your consent. Some information shared by default includes device passwords, access to calendars, personal data and contacts, usage and diagnostic data, and Location services.
If you intend to prevent access and sharing of data stored on your Mac, you’ve made changes to the default settings. Go to Security & Privacy under System Preferences, and you’ll get to see the apps that are accessing your data, including contacts, calendar, locations, and others.
Stop sharing data with Apple by going to the appropriate settings under Diagnostics & Usage.
Using the Mac Antivirus
Antivirus tools available in the market aren’t very effective against the Mac OS-specific malware, especially when the hackers have upped the game by bombarding Mac devices with advanced malware. Even in-built security features offered by Apple fail to provide 100% protection against a wide range of threats, including spyware, ransomware, phishing attacks, keyloggers, and data breaches.
Mac-specific anti-virus applications have been designed to protect critical data by warding off online attacks, and ransomware. Mac antivirus programs you choose must include features like advanced detection of ransomware and removal, malware protection on a real-time basis, cybersecurity tools, spyware protection, and phishing protection.
Using browsers with better privacy features
Data security and online privacy is a huge challenge when you’re using popular browsers like Safari. It doesn’t offer all-round security and even fails to live up to a user’s privacy requirements. Even other browsers like Microsoft Edge, Firefox, or Google Chrome don’t offer complete protection, which makes you vulnerable to phishing attacks and malicious sites.
However, there’re other privacy-focused browsers, including Brave, Opera, and Tor, which have in-built tools to prevent IP address and browsing activity tracking. Some browsers even block malicious scripts often launched by scam websites.
Install a Virtual Private Network
A VPN for Mac offers much-needed security while you’re busy using your Mac for various online activities. A Virtual Private Network on your device helps you to browse the web anonymously. It creates a secure channel between your Mac and server, which is difficult to hack into. Even if someone manages to break into the secure network, they won’t be able to extract anything from the stolen data as a VPN provides end-to-end data encryption. A VPN offers a higher degree of data security and safeguards your privacy against unwanted tracking and data theft.
