Cyber attacks are becoming more evolved and sophisticated. Even though Apple’s Mac computers come packed with in-built security features, they are not immune to malware and viruses. So it would be best if you were not lax when securing your device, and here are some tricks to stay safe in 2023 and beyond.
Keep The macOS Software Up-To-Date
Keeping the macOS software updated is one of the most effective ways to beef up your Mac’s security. Hackers target outdated software because they are sure to find security vulnerabilities that are patched in updated versions.
To enable automatic updates, click the Apple icon > About This Mac > Software Update. After the installation process, restart your device to apply the changes.
You can enable automatic updates by clicking the Automatically keep my Mac up to date box.
Change Apple ID and Password
From logging into iCloud to purchasing items from iTunes and syncing your Apple devices, the Apple universe relies heavily on your Apple ID and password.
Therefore, you must protect your Apple ID and password at all costs. However, you can keep changing the ID and the password to ensure nobody can use them. Learn how to do this by clicking https://setapp.com/how-to/change-apple-id-password-easily.
Create Additional User Accounts
Do you share your Mac with someone else? If so, it is best to create additional user accounts and don’t provide administrative privileges to those accounts. This way, you can safeguard your personal data.
So anyone except you will have to log into their accounts with their password. They can only access the files that belong to them.
If you want more protection, create Sharing Only accounts. Here, users can access only those files you have chosen to share with them, but they cannot access other locations or files or change settings on their computers.
Navigate to System Preferences and click Users & Group to create a new user account. Then, select the padlock and make changes. Enter your password when prompted and add a new user by clicking the plus sign.
Turn on Firewall
Activate Apple’s built-in Firewall to block unwanted inbound network connections. This will also keep malware out of your device.
A Firewall is an additional layer of protection livechatvalue; if it isn’t turned on by default, you must manually enable it. Go to Security & Privacy from the System Preferences app > choose the Firewall tab > Turn on Firewall.
You can also check out the advanced settings for added security.
However, while the Firewall will safeguard your device and network against incoming traffic, it will not prevent it from sending your data out.
2FA for iCloud
2FA or two-factor authentication is where users must input a randomly generated one-time code and their password to log into their accounts. This adds an additional layer of protection by preventing hackers from accessing your data. Even if cybercriminals manage to find your passwords, they cannot log into your accounts without the randomly generated code.
Since everything is backed up to your iCloud account, it is imperative to safeguard it. Set up 2FA by going to System Preferences > Apple ID > Password & Security > click Turn on next to the two-factor authentication option. You may have to input your phone number or email address to receive the authentication codes.
Once you have finished setting up 2FA, you will receive a randomly generated one-time code whenever you log into your iCloud account.
Use Antivirus Software
Traditionally, the main target of hackers has been Windows devices, and Macs were typically seen as immune. However, this view is quickly becoming outdated as cybercriminals have successfully bypassed Apple’s security.
So Mac devices appear more vulnerable than before. Therefore, it is best to take matters into your hands and protect your system.
Even though Macs come with Apple’s in-built security features, they are not enough to keep away sophisticated, tech-savvy hackers. Install an antivirus program if you want complete peace of mind and stay protected against spyware, phishing attacks, ransomware, and data breaches.
There’s no dearth of antivirus software on the market. But before making your choice, you must keep in mind some things. For example, the software must offer real-time protection against malware and viruses, detect & remove advanced ransomware, protect against spyware and phishing, etc.
Besides these, you must use a privacy-focused web browser to protect your data and prevent cybercriminals’ monitoring. Although Safari is a good browser, it does not offer users the highest level of security. Instead, consider using Tor, Brave, or Mozilla Firefox, as these browsers are developed explicitly for privacy and security.
The Bottom Line
So these security methods can be applied from now and continued in 2023 to stay safe while surfing the web. These will protect your device against cybercriminals and ensure an enhanced user experience, along with total peace of mind.