World Executive Digest | 7 Great Ways To Protect Your Mac | If you own a Mac, you should feel confident that Apple is helping keep your data and information safe from those who want to steal it. However, hackers can crack even the safest devices.
But protecting your computer and your information doesn’t need to be complicated. There are some steps you can take to keep it safe and ensure that nobody can access your information.
Keep reading to learn about 7 actions you can take to help protect your Mac.
1. Use an Antivirus Program
Many people have a misconception that viruses can’t affect Macs. Although it’s true that hackers traditionally wrote the most malware for Windows computers, the number of viruses written for Macs has increased in recent years.
According to a 2020 study, the number of threats Mac users face increased by 400% from 2019 to 2020. This means that Mac users also need to take steps to protect themselves. Having a false sense of security can be dangerous.
Viruses can slow down your computer, cause pop-ups and advertisements to open, and in extreme cases, can force you to pay money to have access to your computer. They attach themselves to downloadable files, so be aware of what types of files you’re saving to your computer.
To protect your Mac against malware, make sure you have an anti-virus program. If you do think malware has infected your computer, it’s important to take steps to get rid of it. Check out this guide on how to remove malware from Mac.
2. Back up Your Data
Backing up your files is like flossing your teeth. Most people know that they should do it, but for some reason or another, they don’t.
When you back up your files, you’re protecting it in case of an emergency. User error, malware, and physical damage can all cause you to lose everything. The nature of these events means that they’re difficult to predict. Give your self peace of mind by creating a backup of your files.
Apple provides Mac users with an app called Time Machine which lets you create a snapshot of your data. If something happens to it, you can then use Time Machine to restore photos, music, documents, and other file types.
3. Take Advantage of iCloud Keychain
Take a moment to think about the different passwords you use to log into everything from bank accounts and emails, to social media and shopping sites. How unique are they?
Most people’s passwords are simple, which makes them an easy target for hackers. That’s why using a password manager, such as Apple’s iCloud Keychain, can be a good idea.
When you use a password manager, the app saves your password in a digital vault. It can also help you create complex and randomized passwords that expert hackers will struggle to crack. All you need to do is remember your password for the app itself.
Keep in mind that you can only use iCloud Keychain on Apple products, such as Safari. This means that if you use another browser, such as Google Chrome, you’ll be unable to use it.
4. Consider Using a VPN
When you’re browsing the web, you open yourself up to malware and hacking attempts.
That’s where using a VPN comes in. A VPN, or virtual private network, reroutes your computer’s internet connection through a private and secure server, instead of the one your internet service provider gives you. This creates an extra level of security.
Using a VPN can be a great idea whenever you’re using public Wi-Fi. Next time you’re at the Starbucks down the street from your house, consider the number of people who might be able to access your data. Download a VPN to prevent them from doing so.
5. Use Two-Factor Authentication
Have you ever received an email or notification that someone is trying to log into a device with your account information? Two-factor authentication helps stop bad people from doing that.
When you enable two-factor authentication, anyone trying to log into a device with your Apple ID will also need to enter a single-use code, in addition to your password. This means that even if a hacker knows your password, they will be unable to do anything with it, creating an extra layer of security.
To enable it on your Mac, head to System Preferences. Then go to Apple ID > Password and Security > Set Up Two-Factor Authentication. You’ll input your phone number, receive the authentication codes, then be all set for future login attempts.
6. Browse the Internet With Safari
The browser you use to surf the web can make a difference in how well protected you are. Mac users should consider sticking with Safari.
Safari comes with a whole host of security features that can keep you safe while online. It will prevent sites from knowing your location, protect you when looking at PDFs or using Flash Player, and will block cookies.
Safari will also screen any file you download from the internet for malware. If it finds something suspicious, it will let you know, and encourage you not to open the file.
7. Make Sure Your Software Is up to Date
Do you know that annoying notification that tells you that a software update is ready to be installed? Instead of exiting out of it, consider getting around to installing it.
Hackers target older software versions because they know where the security vulnerabilities and weaknesses lie. Developers make strides to fix these with software updates, but these are useless if you don’t install them.
To see if your Mac has an update, click the Apple in the top left of your screen. Then head to About This Mac > Software Update. After that, your computer will walk you through the installation process.
Protect Your Mac With These 7 Tips
Macs are safe and secure devices, but there are some things you can do to create an extra level of security. If you’re looking to protect your Mac, following this guide and these 7 tips can be a good place to start.
Do you have any other tips on how to protect your Mac? Let us know!
If you found this article useful, don’t forget to check out some of our other blog posts for more guides and tips.
