There’s no denying that Apple products come with an array of built-in security features. And while said features do a lot to protect Mac users from assorted cyberthreats, they don’t make Macs invulnerable to viruses and other security issues. To ensure maximum security, Mac users will need to put in a little effort and be mindful of a variety of threats. In your quest to protect your Mac – and your personal data – safe from viruses, malware and other prominent cyberthreats, take care to avoid the following mistakes.
Not Installing Dedicated Antivirus Software
There’s no denying that macOS is a reasonably secure operating system, and with so many onboard security features, it’s understandable that many Mac users would assume they didn’t need dedicated antivirus software. However, while this line of thought may seem perfectly reasonable, no one who’s serious about protecting their Mac from viruses should be without dependable antivirus software from a highly-rated developer. Considering how quickly new viruses pop up, a lack of dedicated antivirus software can give way to undesirable consequences. So, if your Mac is currently bereft of said software, now would be the time to remedy this.
When seeking out the right antivirus Mac software, look for programs from developers who are renowned for their contributions to the field of cybersecurity. Furthermore, keep an eye out for software that’s user-friendly and provides constant updates. And on the subject of updates, make a point of installing them as soon as they become available, as this will help ensure maximum protection.
Not Keeping Macos Up to Date
Refusing to install macOS updates in a timely manner is practically asking for trouble. Since many of these updates are created for the purpose of combating new viruses and various other threats, procrastination in this area only serves to compromise the security of your Mac. With this in mind, take care to install updates and patches forthwith instead of placing them on the backburner.
If you’re in the middle of an important task when an update becomes available, you may understandably be tempted to postpone its installation. However, it’s important to remember that any inconvenience this causes you pales in comparison to the inconvenience a virus is likely to cause. So, the next time you’re presented with an update notification, drop what you’re doing and install it posthaste. If you don’t trust yourself to exercise this level of self-discipline, simply set macOS to install all updates automatically.
In addition to updating macOS as needed, you’ll also need to install updates and patches for the various programs you use as they become available. As is the case with operating system updates, software updates are often created to combat cyberthreats, and postponing their installation will only make your computer less safe.
Practicing Unsafe Browsing Habits
Unsafe browsing habits are among the most common causes of viruses. So, if your current browsing habits leave something to be desired, now would be a great time to amend them. To start with, avoid visiting sites that generate warnings from your browser or antivirus software. For example, when using Safari, you should be presented with “Not Secure” or “Website Not Secure” messages whenever a site’s certificate is illegitimate or expired. You should also see these messages whenever a site that asks you to provide passwords or credit card info is unencrypted.
Not Exercising Caution with Public Wi-Fi
Although public Wi-Fi networks are very convenient and provide countless individuals with easy Internet access, this convenience comes at a cost. Given how unsecure many of these networks are, it should come as no surprise that they often function as playgrounds for cybercriminals. As such, you should avoid using public Wi-Fi whenever it can be avoided – and not using websites that request personal info through these networks. If you have no choice but to use public Wi-Fi, make sure to do so with the protection of a reliable virtual private network (VPN).
While Macs – and Apple products in general – have a number of convenient security features in place, assuming that they’re immune to viruses and other cyberthreats is pure folly. Furthermore, this mindset stands to result in some truly undesirable outcomes. Luckily, shielding your Mac from a growing array of digital dangers is far from a lofty undertaking. By utilizing the security measures discussed above, you can effectively set the stage for long-term protection.
Jason is the Marketing Manager at a local advertising company in Australia. He moved to Australia 10 years back for his passion for advertising. Jason recently joined BFA as a volunteer writer and contributes by sharing his valuable experience and knowledge.
Leave a Reply