As any Apple enthusiast will attest, Mac Computers hold some unique advantages over standard PCs. However, despite their reputation for being less susceptible to cyber threats than Windows machines, Apple products can still fall prey to viruses and malicious software.
Additionally, as is the case on standard PCs, the emergence of malware can cause various problems that range from mildly inconvenient to outright devastating. That being the case, no Mac owner can afford to regard malware protection as an afterthought. To help keep your Apple computer safe and malware-free, implement the following pointers into practice.
Invest in Dependable Security Software
When working to stop malware dead in its tracks, dependable antivirus software can be an invaluable ally. Fortunately, when it comes to reliable antivirus for Mac, your options are far from limited.
In your search for the right antivirus program, there are several factors you’ll need to prioritize.
For starters, any software you invest in should provide constant updates. Given the sheer number of new and emerging threats facing Mac users, it’s only natural that a good antivirus program would work around the clock to combat them.
Secondly, the right antivirus program should be user-friendly and offer easily-accessible support options. Malware and other threats don’t operate according to any schedule, and 24/7 support can provide you with tremendous peace of mind whenever you find yourself under siege by digital dangers during off-hours.
Don’t Let System Updates Pile-Up.
To get the most out of your antivirus software, you’ll need to install updates as they become available. Since these updates are often created in direct response to new threats, you’re making your Mac more vulnerable by failing to install them promptly.
However, dedicated antivirus software isn’t the only thing that needs to be updated consistently.
You’ll also need to install any macOS updates that come your way posthaste. Many – but by no means all – of these updates are designed to make your system more secure. If properly updated, your operating system can work in tandem with your antivirus software to keep malware and other cyber threats at bay.
You can take some of the hassles out of installing system updates by enabling automatic installation.
However, if you’re someone who prefers to know exactly what’s being installed on their Mac, promptly conduct some research every time you’re presented with an update. By educating yourself on each update on time, you’ll be able to determine which updates have a direct impact on system security and which ones you can do without.
Be Mindful of Where Software Comes From
When it comes to new software, you should only download programs from sources you trust. For example, software downloads prompted by random popup windows should be ignored.
Furthermore, download and installation links found in emails from unfamiliar sources and social media posts should never be clicked. You should also avoid downloading software from sites that lack proper security authentication.
To help ensure that a site is secure, look for an encryption icon in Safar’s smart search field. This icon means that a site utilizes the HTTPS protocol, has a digital identity certificate and encrypts its information. Whenever you visit an encrypted site using Safari, the browser will confirm whether the site’s certificate is legitimate and present you with a warning message if it isn’t.
Disable Adobe Flash
Security breaches in Adobe Flash have been known to further the spread of malware on both Macs and Windows PCs. Anyone interested in taking a proactive approach against this issue should consider disabling Flash or installing a Flash blocker plugin for their preferred browser. Since security breaches in Java often result in similar problems, it may be a good idea to disable Java, too.
Summary
In recent years, malware has become an increasingly common problem for Mac users. With malware developers targeting Mac users more aggressively than ever, there’s no time like the present to bolster your digital defenses.
Fortunately, as long as you take cybersecurity seriously and stay on top of the latest threats, protecting your Apple computer from the machinations of malware developers shouldn’t prove terribly strenuous. A little bit of common sense and a willingness to learn can be a tremendous boon to Mac users’ cybersecurity efforts everywhere.
