It is no secret that MacBooks are some of the most reliable computers you can purchase. However, since there are so many different threats out there, taking some extra precautions seems like a smart idea.
In case you are concerned about your computer’s security and would like to explore the available options to improve it, look no further. This article will give you some great ideas to come up with a solid cybersecurity strategy for your Mac.
Use Reliable Antivirus Tool
Starting with reliable antivirus software is a good approach. One can find free and paid software that works as a means to prevent malware, viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other cybersecurity problems threatening the system. Some users go as far as looking up an available spyware removal guide or a guide that tells how to deal with other threats.
However, when it comes to regular cybersecurity threats, antivirus software that does its work properly should be enough for the most part. Just make sure that the software is active when the MacBook is turned on. This way, the antivirus will scan the system consistently and remove threats it detects.
Install Ad Blocker Extension on Internet Browser
The internet is one of the biggest sources of threats. Even if you are aware of potential dangers, you might still end up on a landing page crawling with malware. How? By clicking on an ad that redirects you there.
Some online advertisements can be quite aggressive. Clicking on an “x” button to close it is not always as straightforward. It can be misleading and still redirect a person to a dangerous landing page.
Getting an ad blocker extension on your internet browser is a simple solution to this problem. Not seeing the ads online will improve your overall internet surfing experience and reduce the odds of ending up on malware-infected landing pages.
Avoid Sharing Personal Details
If you spend time socializing with strangers online on social media or communication platforms like Discord, remember not to overshare personal information. The person on the other side might have motives that they are not revealing to you.
For example, if you share the name of your pet or your birthday, and you use any of these for your passwords online, a stranger might try their luck to access one of your accounts. If they do, who knows what they might do with it.
Create Difficult Passwords
Not everyone is keen on creating difficult passwords because they are difficult to memorize. The same thing can be said about using different passwords for different online profiles. It is more convenient to stick to the same combination for all your accounts.
Whether it is your email account, a PDF document you want to protect with a password, or another instance of needing to use a password, try to be creative and not stick to the same combinations.
If you cannot come up with new password ideas yourself, use one of many available online password generators.
Run the Latest macOS Version
As a rule of thumb, a MacBook should run on the latest macOS version. Not only is keeping the system updated provides overall performance improvements and offers the most recent features, but it also helps with security.
Apple engineers react to new threats for macOS, and they strive to release updated versions, so MacBooks are safe. Missing an update could be the difference-maker between exposing your Mac to a new threat and having a protected device.
Back Up MacBook Data
Backing up computer data is not necessarily a direct measure to counter cybersecurity attacks, but it is still recommended to get in the habit of backing up your MacBook data regularly.
You can simply transfer important files to an iCloud account or invest in an external HDD and combine the accessory with Time Machine.
Backing up with Time Machine can take a while the first time, but that is to be expected because the tool will need to copy all the files unless you make some adjustments before initiating the backup. Future backups will take less time because Time Machine will need to copy only new and modified files.
Ignore Questionable URLs
If you encounter shady-looking links, you would be better off ignoring them. Just like a random pop-up or another type of advertisement online, such a link might redirect you to a landing page that might infect the MacBook with malware.
Thus, whether it is a link you receive from someone you know and trust or a link you encounter randomly online if it looks suspicious, ignore it.
Conclusion
All in all, the suggestions about cybersecurity that you read in this article ought to be enough to create your own strategy and fend off malware, viruses, and other threats that might be posing a danger to your device. And remember that the more of these tips you implement, the more secure your computer will be.