11 Tips to Secure your Mac Computer

Maintaining the security of a computer is the responsibility of the owner of the computer. Many people turn to Mac computers because they have heard that Macs do not get viruses. They think this means they do not have to worry about computer security if they have a Mac. This is not true. Macs are still vulnerable and a person could end up with serious problems if they ignore security when using a Mac or any other type of computer. There are 11 things that a person can do to make sure that their Mac is safe and secure.

1. Use Security antivirus software – Antivirus programs do much more than prevent viruses from getting onto a computer. They are designed to help keep malware and other problems from entering the computer. No one should run any computer on the internet if they do not have security software in place.
2. Use strong passwords – A good password is the best protection that a person can have when entering into different websites. The password should not be a common one such as using 12345. Instead it should use a combination of letters, numbers and symbols and it should be unique.
3. Password protect the Mac – A password should be used to allow anyone to even access the computer.
4. Never use automatic logins – Programs can remember passwords for different sites, but they should not be used. If a person gains access to your Mac and this feature is used, they can get into your websites and your personal information.
5. Use a firewall – A firewall can prevent others from accessing the computer without anyone knowing. It needs to be in place and turned on.
6. Turn off open safe files – This setting is from a time when there was such a thing as safe files. That is not true today and this feature of the Mac should be disabled.
7. Turn full disc encryption on – This feature of Macs allows the user to secure all of the hard drive of their computer.
8. Keep the computer updated – Make sure that all of the programs and the features of the Mac are kept updated on a regular basis. This should be done automatically so there is no problem with this issue.
9. Learn how to surf – Many people end up with malware or a virus on their computer when they visit websites that re not safe. They may click on a link in an article and allow something unwanted on their computer. Take the time to learn the right way to safe and how to keep your computer safe.
10. Download only trusted programs – If a program includes malware and is downloaded to your Mac, you are opening up a can of worms. If you are not sure if a download is safe or have any question about it, don’t do it.
11. Never click on a link in an email – This is a basic tip that is used for all computers and devices. Phishing emails and emails that contain malware and virus are most commonly sent through emails. If there is a link in an email, do not click on it. If you need to visit a site that is mentioned in an email, do it by typing the URL into the address bar rather than clicking on a link.