While many believe that Macs are more secure than PCs, it’s important to know that both devices are vulnerable to cyber threats. You should prioritize cybersecurity and practice good digital hygiene at all times to ensure your device is protected from viruses, malware, and direct hacking attempts.
Signs of a virus include pop-up ads, web browser activities taking you to unintended websites, slowed performance, etc. Spyware is another common threat that can monitor your online activity without your knowledge or consent.
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1. Install Antivirus Software
Cybercriminals attack all digital devices, including Macs. While Macs are less susceptible to viruses than PCs, they can still fall victim to hackers and malware.
Malware is any unwanted software that infiltrates your computer and collects data without your consent. It can cause your computer to crash or slow down, produce annoying pop-up ads, and change your security settings. It can also expose your personal information to hackers, such as your email address, credit card details and other sensitive information.
You can prevent these threats from infiltrating your device by installing antivirus software on your PC or Mac. It is also important to keep your software updated. This will protect you from hacker attacks that exploit vulnerabilities in outdated systems. For extra protection, consider using a VPN to protect your online privacy.
2. Update Your Software
Many Mac users assume that their systems can’t get infected with viruses. But the truth is, macOS computers can be just as susceptible to malware attacks as Windows machines.
Keep your operating system, apps and software programs updated. This helps eliminate security flaws that hackers can use to infiltrate your computer.
Some signs that your Mac may be infected with spyware include a sudden influx of pop-up ads, being taken to websites you don’t want to visit and slowed performance. If you experience any of these symptoms, run an antivirus scan immediately.
Keeping your Mac’s software updated can help protect it against the most recent viruses. Virus scanners like Norton 360 Deluxe are essential for protecting your Mac from hackers and malware. They also feature dedicated anti-spyware protection, which is an important aspect of overall cybersecurity.
3. Set Up a Firewall
Although antivirus software and practicing good computing and Internet habits will go a long way toward protecting your Mac from malware, hacking and viruses, you also need a firewall to prevent outgoing traffic that can make your computer susceptible to cyber threats. Apple’s built-in firewall is turned off by default, so you will need to switch it on by going to System Settings and choosing Network.
You can also access advanced settings and change your firewall preferences by clicking the Firewall Options button. You will need to know your administrator password to access these options. Be sure to set up accounts for any other users that use your Mac so they cannot make changes to your Mac’s security settings or share files and locations with others.
4. Turn Off Unwanted Apps
Malicious software, such as malware, can be very dangerous and can steal information, slow down your computer or change security settings. Fortunately, you can help protect your Mac with comprehensive cybersecurity software like Norton 360 Deluxe.
Malware can be hidden in adware pop-ups, or it may be in a Trojan that can record your activities and send it to cybercriminals. This information could include your keystrokes, instant messages and Skype calls.
The best way to avoid this type of malware is to use apps only from Apple’s App Store and Identified Developers. This software will have undergone App Review and Notarization, and will be protected by Gatekeeper and the Mac’s app sandbox. This also helps minimize damage if you accidentally download and open malware on your Mac.
5. Change Your Password
Using strong passwords is the best way to protect your laptop or Mac from cyber threats. You should always use a password that is easy for you to remember, but not for others to guess.
It’s also important to change your password regularly so that you don’t forget it. Make sure to use a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers and special symbols to create a unique and complex password that will be difficult for hackers to crack.
If you have FileVault turned on, it is a good idea to back up the files stored on your computer frequently so that you can retrieve them if the need arises. Refer to Longwood’s Password Management Standards for help with choosing a secure password.
