Macs come equipped with built-in security settings, but they are frequently underutilized. Underestimation and ignorance of protection measures against various cyber threats are common causes of hacking. Before it’s too late, it’s worth improving Mac safe. However, even with all of Apple’s security features activated, ensuring complete protection against the latest malware or cybersecurity threats targeting your Mac is insufficient. There are additional protection measures that are easy to use and greatly increase your resilience against cyberattacks of various levels and types.
#1 Disable Automatic Login
When setting up a new Mac or performing a clean installation of a different OS X version, you have the option to create a user account and enable automatic login at startup. However, it’s important to consider the risks involved, especially if you frequently travel with your laptop. With automatic login, anyone who comes across or steals your Mac can simply power it on to gain access to your files.
To adjust the automatic login setting, navigate to the Users & Groups pane in System Preferences. Please note that this option will be unavailable if you have enabled FileVault on your Mac.
#2 Enable the Firewall
The Firewall in macOS is an essential security feature that actively blocks unauthorized incoming network traffic. It serves as a powerful tool to secure your Mac, especially when regularly connecting to Wi-Fi or Ethernet networks outside your control. Its primary purpose is to defend against remote hackers attempting to access your computer, either from afar or within the same local area network.
To activate the Firewall, navigate to System Settings | Network | Firewall and toggle the switch. Enabling this feature will restrict certain services and ports, ensuring your Mac remains shielded from unwanted access while on the move or connected to unfamiliar networks.
#3 Install VPN
As we already wrote, the built-in security and privacy on Mac cannot guarantee comprehensive protection. A good option to significantly improve your cyber resilience is to download a VPN for Mac. Although there are different VPNs for Mac users, VeePN has proven itself to be the best. Among other VPN apps, it has a huge database of VPN servers (over 2500), all available security technologies, and support for all types of devices. You can use it as a VPN for Mac and additionally connect 9 more devices: iPhone, Android, any browsers, router, TV, etc.
#4 Keep Your Mac’s OS & Software Updated
To ensure the safety of your Mac, it is crucial to regularly update the software and programs. Outdated software attracts cybercriminals who exploit security vulnerabilities that developers address in updated versions.
Enabling automatic updates is the simplest way to keep your macOS software up to date. To do this, click on the Apple icon at the top left of your screen, choose “About This Mac,” and click on “Software Update.” If a new macOS version is available and you haven’t installed it yet, it will be displayed here. Click on “Restart Now” to promptly install the update.
#5 Keep Your Location Private
Are you comfortable sharing your physical location with various applications? Do you know which apps receive your location details? You can easily find out by visiting System Preferences. Click on the Security & Privacy icon, then go to the Privacy tab.
Once there, select Location Services and check if they are enabled. Also, see which apps have access to your location. Allowing certain apps to know your location can be beneficial. For example, if you want Maps to provide you with accurate directions, it’s easier to grant it access to your location. Weather apps can deliver better forecasts if they know where you are. The Find My app (refer to below) should have access to your location for effective tracking.
#6 Use Two-Factor Authentication
Enabling two-factor authentication adds a layer of security to your accounts. It requires a code, in addition to your password, to log in. This preventive measure helps thwart unauthorized access, even if your password is compromised. Many services, such as Apple ID, offer two-factor authentication.
If you use iCloud, ensure that your account has two-factor authentication enabled. If not, you can easily enable it by navigating to System Settings, selecting your name, going to Password & Security, and enabling Two-Factor Authentication.
To further protect your iCloud account from compromise, you can also enable physical security key access on your Mac. This requires a physical key to be connected to your Mac for access.
#7 Turn on Find My
The Find My app is an integral part of numerous Apple devices, serving as a presence indicator. It allows you to effortlessly track AirTags, locate a lost iPhone, and even recover your stolen Mac.
Linking Find My to your iCloud account further enhances functionality, enabling device location, marking as lost or erasing data using any Apple device or iCloud.com.
Conclusion
Your Mac can be much better at resisting viruses and hackers than Windows or Android but don’t overdo it. Yes, developers are releasing fixes in the field of security, but no one has canceled the human factor. Plus, the sphere of data transmission over the network remains vulnerable. VPN can close this gap.
