Posted On 24 Nov 2020

The most obvious thing you can do to keep your Mac computer safe is to choose effective passwords to keep it protected, however there are a number of other measures you can take, detailed below, that will also boost your security.

Safer settings: in System Preferences >Security >System, there are a number of options you can select in order to make your computer more secure. Firstly, you can mandate that a password is needed to access the computer after it has been asleep or had the screensaver on; you can disable automatic logins so that the password is always required; you can make all of the system preferences panes password-protected; you can impose security on the virtual memory feature, so that temporary information will be as secure as your main information; and you can disable the remote control infrared receiver to ensure that people with a remote control can’t mess with your system.

Software updates: as with any other form of computer software or hardware, one of the most secure things you can do is to ensure that you always update your software as soon as updates are available. The factory settings on Macs check for updates once a week; by going to Software Update under the Apple menu you can run an immediate check for available updates and also change your preferences regarding how often you want update checks to take place.

Secure your email: there are numerous Mac-friendly email protection programs that can encrypt and provide electronic signage for your email.

Guard against phishing: never accept direct clickthrough offers in emails: if you’re interested in what an email has to offer, go to the company website directly. Always remember that, as with everything else in life, anything that looks too good to be true probably isn’t.

Keep your hardware secure: if your device is stolen, the likelihood is that given time the thief will be able to get into your system. Lock your devices away in a safe place when not in use; Mac laptops have a special recess in the side that can be used in conjunction with mechanical locking devices.

Make a note of your serial number: in the Apple menu >Hardware Overview section you can find your serial number; if the worst happens, having a note of it may help you recover your device and prove it belongs to you.