Mac & Data Security- How To Go The Extra Mile

For Mac users who are focused on privacy, things can be tricky. This is because Mac security settings are challenging to configure, particularly if you are a newbie with this OS. Apart from securing the system itself, you need to be extra vigilant about the data it houses. There is always a risk of data loss and you must regularly back up files. There are also risks while downloading files and exchanging them. Moreover, as the number of threats for this particular OS grows, it always makes sense to go the extra mile. Here are some measures you can rely on. 

Cut down access to your Mac 

First things first, cutting down the access to your system goes a long way in making it secure. There is much you can do to prevent unauthorized access- from creating a standard, non-admin account for daily activities to disabling automatic long, using a password manager to prevent phishing attacks, and uninstalling the standalone Flash Player. Running a two-way firewall keeps you extra safe while using a network. 

Get the latest updates  

Apple has a great reputation when it comes to making security a priority. So it keeps releasing updates in the operating systems and apps for all Mac products on a regular basis. Each update offers important security patches that address the system’s vulnerabilities detected till the date of its release. Running the latest updates on your system is like having an additional layer of protection to keep it and the data therein safe from certain types of attacks. 

Install protection software  

Installing antivirus software on your Mac is a smart move if you are conscious about security. Those who download and exchange files often need this kind of support even more. Apart from antivirus protection, it also makes sense to use cleaning software such as CleanMyMac X that clears the unneeded files and speeds up the system as well. It is capable of fighting off malware, adware, and ransomware by simply deleting them, just as it clears away broken downloads, outdated caches, logs, and other useless stuff.  

Leverage VPN software  

While software solutions for cleaning and deleting viruses keep the system safe, you need to be equally cautious while accessing public Wi-Fi for online activities. Virtual Private Networks (VPN) software is ideal for data protection as it encrypts the entire data from your Mac and protects it from hackers sniffing the network. It ensures that anyone trying to reach and steal your user names, passwords or credit card numbers won’t be able to do so. 

Have a reliable backup solution  

Mac’s Time Machine backups can help you with basic backup if disaster strikes. However, backing up in multiple locations is the right approach. Syncing is the foundation of a robust backup strategy, while you can also use Time Machine to restore the OS to its original state. At the same time, you should ensure that there is another copy of the key data on an external hard drive so that you stay safe even during the worst disasters.  

These security rules have your Mac covered to a significant extent and protect your data as well. Although you can never be too sure about being secure, going the extra mile certainly helps. 

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