Owning a Mac is really fun as is very useful, but like with any other device connected to the internet, you need to ensure that your Mac is well protected from various types of malware. The Flashback Trojan, a very recent update from Apple, reveals that the Mac platform is not as impervious to Trojans and viruses as some might have thought. Below you can find a few tips that are proven to help Mac users in securing their system from the majority of potential threats.
1. Install an Antivirus:
It should go without saying that running antivirus software is a vital step in ensuring the security of any PC. You can purchase various anti-virus software for Mac online; one of the best option currently being Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac. This product has received numerous certifications and appreciation from third party test labs and is guaranteed to offer top-notch protection for your Mac.
2. Update the Software
When you stick to software versions that are not updated, your system becomes vulnerable and is prone to virus attacks. Find the latest versions of the software you use and install them. Most of the times, you are going to be notified of the updates, and all you need to do is to follow a few on-screen prompts. Make sure you configure your Mac to always check for recent updates. To do this, you’ll have to access the Software Update Menu from Apple and install the software. You can also download the latest apps from the Mac Store.
3. Disable Adobe Flash
Adobe Flash is not part of Mac these days. This is because Flash is an attack vector which is prone to crashes and at times may also generate security breaches. If you wish to use Flash for your system to play games and watch videos, you can still do it without having to remove it. Just install the Flash block plugin, and your system is safe. Your system will switch off Flash, and until you need it for individual plugins, it will remain dormant.
4. Disable Java
To patch the Java security holes, Apple has come up with numerous updates. Malware attacks are the main reason behind the Java security breaches. You can install the updates from the Mac Store, or you can otherwise disable Java entirely. Most of the times, Java is not required by the majority Mac users (unless you’re especially tech-savvy and are specifically interested in it). To disable Java, go to Preferences in Safari’s menu and click the Security tab. Next, uncheck the option called Enable Java.
5. Disable Adobe Acrobat Reader
Adobe Reader is also prone to security cracks, so it is better to disable it in your browser. If you’re concerned, keep in mind that you do not necessarily require a Reader, as there is a preview for PDF available with your Mac. What this means is that you can still read the documents while having Adobe Acrobat Reader disabled from Safari.
6. Disable Automatic File Opening
In your web browser, safe files are automatically opened after you have downloaded them. But you need to be very careful with this if you want to keep your system safe. The simplest solution is to have this option disabled and then open each file manually. Go to Safari Preferences -> General Tab and uncheck-> Open Safe Files After Downloading option.
7. Be Sure of the Source of your Files
Whenever you download any file, image or video from the internet, be sure that they always are from reliable sources. Gatekeeper is a new feature from Apple that lets you know the source of your files. It is generally not recommended to install any random software, just because a pop up appears on your screen.
8. Firewall
Last but not least, make sure you have a firewall active. Though Mac OSX comes with its own built in Firewall, which is disabled by default, you will likely need to find a better Firewall for your Mac.