Top Tips for Protecting Mac Computer

Macs are well-known for not having the same kind of security issues and malware vulnerabilities as are found on PCs, but they are not invulnerable to intrusion and security breaches. You still need to stay vigilant, and you need to know how to defend yourself online despite the (potentially false) security of a Mac.

Here are some great tips to help you guard yourself:

Update Your Computer

One of the cornerstones of Apple’s well-regarded security is the fact that they react quickly to any problems. Apple will make an update available for your Mac the moment they have a solution for any security hole found. Yet these updates will do nothing if you do not download them and install them. You should make it a habit at least once a week to check if there are any OS updates, and install them if there are.

Updating also goes for other programs you have. There are many stories of hackers getting through a security wall or suite because the user didn’t update it, leaving a well-known exploit available for use. These updates exist for a reason, and you should take heed.

Use a Virtual Private Network

One of the major types of attack that you are vulnerable to on your Mac is being hacked on a public network. Hackers will use a simple receiving setup to try to intercept anything you send or receive over an unprotected network. This includes your passwords, financial information, and other sensitive data. It is a one-way trip to identity theft.

What you need is a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which will protect your Mac on public networks by connecting it to an offsite server using an encrypted connection. The encryption will protect your Mac so well that it will appear as though you are not even there to most hackers, and the idea of them getting your information will be just a dream. You will even be able to stay anonymous online because the server will mask your IP address.

When choosing a VPN to protect your Mac, you want to make sure you get the best, as there are number of products out there vying for your attention. Try reading different reviews you can find online to help you figure out which one will be best suited for your computer and needs.

Remember the Basics

Certain rules apply to all computers, just as certain threats apply to all computers. You need to review and remember the basics of computer and internet security. This means having a good password that is made of different types of characters and is ten or more characters long. It also means having good security questions and keeping track of all of your accounts. Know that computer programs and systems are all integrated, so that if you are weak on one front you are weak on all fronts.

There are other things that you should know concerning basic security. While Macs don’t have to worry about viruses and malware nearly as much, that doesn’t mean that you don’t need to have a security program installed on your computer. You should also do a regular check-up of all the files on your computer every month in order to keep track of where everything is. Finally, don’t let anyone else use your computer without your direct supervision.

Beware of Unknown Files

Whether it is given to you by a friend or something you download online, don’t trust anything on your computer unless you know exactly what it is. If you find a file that doesn’t appear to be the right size or has an odd name attached to it, then you should trust your instincts and delete it before it does any damage to your Mac (or any more damage).

While the internet is a useful place, it contains more harm than good unless you are looking in the right places. Few people are really interested in giving out free content, and the best thing you can do is just stick with the major websites and services out there. Your Mac will thank you for it.

Common Sense

When it comes down to it, you know you’re a smart person. You can generally tell when things aren’t adding up on your computer, and you can resist scams and other problems with foresight, patience, and common sense. If something appears too good to be true, then you can bet it is. Be similarly wary of websites that want your information, as many problematic websites will sell it to the highest bidder (or the first bidder).

There is no shame in reading some basic guides or articles in order to better prepare yourself for what might be out there waiting to attack your computer. No matter what other tools are available, your mind and your good decision making will win the day when it comes to protecting your Mac.