How Do I Protect My Mac?

Viruses are written more frequently to Windows PCs and Android systems than MacBook’s and iMacs. However, that doesn’t mean Macs aren’t at risk. Apple’s plans are also not immune to viruses, and it is advisable to protect the Mac in a targeted manner. Malware and virus attacks can also target Mac systems. The number of viruses and malicious programs written for Macs is increasing.

Furthermore, IT platforms and operating systems can have security gaps. Many malware and other malware programmers have primarily economic interests. Blackmail Trojans and spam emails are often aimed at getting money from the victim. Several steps can be taken to protect a Mac. The most critical security measures are presented below.

Use The Firewall For The Mac

Mac systems have a built-in firewall that can be activated. The firewall offers good protection against external attacks. A firewall can prevent network access. To start the firewall, the system settings of the Mac should be opened via the dock. In the system settings, the user can open the “Security” menu item with one click. Then the item “Firewall” can be selected in the “Security” menu. After clicking on the lock in the field at the bottom left, a new window will open. The user can identify himself in the window. The identification takes place with the login data of the user. You can then select “Activate firewall.”

Use Gatekeeper

The gatekeeper function is a vital protection option on the Mac. The gatekeeper can protect the Apple system from malicious apps. The user can decide whether only tested and secure apps are installed on the system. To activate the concierge, the user must open the system settings. The system settings of the Mac can be reached via the dock. The menu item “Security” should be selected in the system settings. In the “Security” menu, the user must select “General” in the bar.

Then the “lock symbol” can be clicked at the bottom left. A window opens that offers the possibility of identification. The user must provide valid login data. If the user has successfully identified himself, the menu item “cancel protection” can be selected. The further course depends on the version of the operating system. As of version macOS 10.12, the secure options “App Store and verified developers” and “App Store” can be used. Older operating systems still offer the insecure “No restrictions” option. If the unsafe option is activated, one of the safe functions should be selected.

Install Antivirus Program

If you want to protect your Apple PC from viruses, you should search for trustworthy antivirus programs on the Mac. Reliable virus protection programs are also available for Mac systems. Interested users can download free programs such as “Avast Free Mac Security” or “Avira Free Antivirus for Mac.” Avast’s antivirus program offers real-time monitoring. In addition to real-time tracking of the Mac, the antivirus program can also shine with three protective shields. The user has a data scanner, a mail scanner, and a web scanner available. Avira’s antivirus program reliably protects the Mac from spyware, Trojans, adware, and viruses. The program also prevents the spread of malware. When a user is looking for a trusted antivirus on their Mac, free antivirus software from Avast or Avira is interesting. Further information on the Avira and Avast antivirus programs is available on the providers’ websites.

Use Mac Systems Safely

Mac users can contribute to the security of the devices themselves. Using your Mac safely also means using the Internet carefully. If you want to download apps, you should use secure pages. It is not advisable to enable automatic downloads and click on dubious websites.

The operating system and other apps should always receive the necessary security updates. The user must also provide the browser with updates. Automatic updates must be enabled so that developers can close existing security gaps. An update can protect against unauthorized access to the browser and operating system.

Malicious software is often smuggled onto the PC by opening email attachments. Malware, ransomware, and Trojans are usually distributed via email attachments. By clicking on a link, it is also possible to access a damaged website. A user should also not follow links from known senders or download attachments without checking them beforehand. It could be a so-called phishing mail among the email inboxes. A phishing mail is used to receive critical data. The user believes that the email comes from a bank, a company, or an authority. Phishing emails are deceptively forged and can hardly be distinguished from the original emails. A call to a source, bank or company can clarify whether the email is genuine.

Also Read: What Is Essential In An Antivirus App For Android?