In 2020, in the age of the internet, keeping your privacy and data safe should be your top priority. Many people wrongly think that cybersecurity is terribly complex and complicated, but it doesn’t have to be like that at all. If you’re an Apple user, keeping your computer and data safe and protected is quite simple. The first thing you should know is Apple products are built to be safer.
They have built-in security settings that can go that extra mile to protect your privacy and data, but you have to know how to use them effectively to harness their power and protect your data and privacy. Malware and other cyber threats are continually evolving, so you have to be prepared to keep your Mac secure.
Update Your Programs and OS Regularly
One of the easiest ways to do a lot for your Mac or iOS security is to update your programs and software. Outdated software is the most common target for cybercriminals because they know the weak points in outdated security features.
Simply navigate to software updates and follow the instructions. The most recommended thing to do is to set your future updates to be installed automatically when available.
Change the Default Privacy and Security Settings
Mac devices allow Apple and other applications to view and share your data by default settings. This includes your location and usage data, as well as:
- Device passwords;
- App access to your personal data, calendars, contacts, etc.;
- Location services;
- Usage data sharing and diagnostic;
To make sure your data is safe, simply set a secure device password and stop automatic logins. If you don’t want to exchange user data with Apple, simply go to the Diagnostics & Usage tab and uncheck the appropriate settings.
Install a Mac Antivirus
macOS-specific malware requires specific antivirus. While there are many antiviruses out there, very few of them are capable of actually protecting your Mac.
This is even more true if we consider the increasing number of cybercriminals intentionally and explicitly targeting macOS with the latest, most advanced malware. Mac has its built-in security features, but that isn’t enough to ensure full-time protection. To keep your Mac 100% protected, you’ll need a good antivirus that can save you from:
- Ransomware
- Spyware
- Adware
- Keyloggers
- Phishing attacks
- Data breaches
Antiviruses like Airo AV and Intego proved to be adequate protection as they are purposely designed for macOS and are capable of protecting your device from an array of cyber threats, including online attacks and ransomware.
With all this in mind, here is a list of features to look for when choosing a Mac anti-virus tool:
- Protection from spyware, phishing, and real-time malware
- Advanced detection and removal of ransomware
- Internet security tools
Shift to a Privacy-Focused Browser
Nowadays, protecting your privacy and anonymity and staying safe while surfing the internet and browsing online is challenging. If you put all your hopes on Apple’s Safari browser, don’t, as you’d be surprised how vulnerable it is in terms of privacy, anonymity, and online safety.
Safari provides some standard security measures, but it can’t protect you from phishing attacks, malware, or malicious websites. Not to mention that things get even worse when it comes to Mozilla or Google Chrome. The best solution is to go with an alternative browser that can ensure extra security. Here are three great options:
- Brave
- Opera
- Tor
All three browsers are privacy and security-focused, providing extra anonymity via an entire set of built-in security tools. Prevent any website from tracking and monitoring your online activities, disable cookies, hide your IP address, and so much more.
Install a VPN
While we’re at the safest and most secure browsers, it’s also wise to consider installing a virtual private network (VPN). It ensures additional layers of protection over your enhanced security browsing.
VPNs have this ability to mask your IP and reroute your online traffic so that it seems like you’re trying to access the internet from an entirely different location. In other words, websites and hackers won’t pinpoint your location and trace your connection, rendering you completely anonymous online. So, a VPN on iOS or Mac is a great idea for anyone looking for ways to become anonymous and safe online.
Conclusion
Keeping all your devices with an internet connection has never been more relevant than today. The number of cyber threats is increasing rapidly, and there are new cyber attacks every day. Keeping your iOS and Mac safe is easy and simple; you just have to wrap your mind around it.