Despite being famous for their high safety, Macs are just as vulnerable to online crime as PCs. Many believe Macs cannot get infected with malware like other computers, but this is false. Cyber criminals are getting smarter in taking advantage of security breaches, and therefore, a user can also pose a risk to themselves by being careless.
Neglecting Regular Software Updates
Hardly anybody bothers to update their macOS or apps; and those who do take forever. However, one should upgrade the software in order to keep the Mac safe. Normally, these updates include important patch types which aid at blocking hacker exploits and additional patches meant for bugs. Failure to update your operating system means that you are susceptible to risks.
- Make sure your Mac is configured to update itself automatically. Just go to System Preferences > Software Update and click the box for automatic updates.
- Regularly check for updates manually through the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update to ensure your system is always up to date.
Downloading Software from Untrusted Sources
Malware often gets into your Mac when you download programs from sites without enough security reputation. Your system becomes less secure if you decide on downloading applications from sources whose authenticity cannot be confirmed. By doing this, you increase the risk of downloading malicious software, such as trojans or adware, which can compromise your system’s security, so you’ll need to remove trojan on Mac as soon as possible to avoid potential damage.
- Always download software from trusted sources, like the Mac App Store or the official websites of the software developers.
- Avoid downloading pirated software or cracks, as these often contain malicious code.
Ignoring Mac's Built-in Security Features
Your Mac has some safety measures installed in it which are meant to protect it from dangerous software. Switching them off makes it easier for harmful software to attack your device.
- Keep Gatekeeper enabled to allow only apps from trusted sources.
- Ensure that XProtect and FileVault are turned on. FileVault encrypts your hard drive, ensuring that even if your Mac is stolen, your data will be protected.
- Enable the Firewall under System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall to block unwanted incoming connections.
Overlooking System and Application Permissions
Certain applications may require permission to get into private information in your Mac like contact, camera, or microphone. Even though these permissions are essential for a few applications to properly operate, there may be cases where other applications ask for them without reason. By having these permissions at their disposal, malicious applications can snoop on users and even perpetrate data theft.
- Review the permissions you’ve granted to apps regularly by going to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy.
- Revoke permissions for any apps that don't need them or seem suspicious.
- Only download apps from reputable sources to minimize the risk of malware gaining unauthorized access to your system.
Not Backing Up Your Data
Although one may not think that backups are very important, they could cause total data loss when a system collapses or is attacked by hackers. In case you don’t have an extra copy, there are important documents which may never be seen again. At times, viruses or malicious software may delete information from the system or encrypt files.
- Use Time Machine, Apple's built-in backup solution, to automatically back up your Mac on an external drive or to iCloud.
- One should think of employing a cloud storage service (like Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud), particularly for crucial documents.
- Ensure that you make regular backups of your system so that the files can be safe and easily recovered in case of any emergency.
Neglecting to Use Antivirus Software
Even if macOS has security features, users must install reliable antivirus programs to be safe from modern malware, ransomware and phishing attacks that could easily circumvent those conventional security measures.
- Invest in a reliable antivirus or anti-malware solution.
- Scan your Mac frequently for possible threats and turn on real-time protection when available in the program.
Clicking on Suspicious Links and Emails
Phishing attacks are a common way by which hackers can get hold of private data, and one of such attacks usually comes in the form of an email posing as genuine but containing some kind or request to click on the unsafe link or save infected files with it.
- Be cautious about clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages, especially if they claim to be from banks, retailers, or even your own email account.
- If an email seems suspicious, always verify the sender’s identity before clicking any links or downloading attachments.
- Use email filters and avoid responding to unsolicited requests for personal information.
Summary
Even though Macs are secure by nature, users must take measures to ensure the security of their devices. If you don’t make these common errors, your Mac will remain safe, stay secure, and run properly. Stay vigilant, back up your data, and practice good security hygiene—your Mac will thank you for it.
