In times when cyber attacks are rampant and creating significant financial and reputation losses, organizations need to follow the best cybersecurity practices to keep themselves secure. Knowing privacy and security on MacBooks is the first step towards it.
Apple has always taken privacy and security seriously and keeps improving its security features. Many employers today use Macs at work for this very reason. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t precautions they need to take. Devices must be secure enough to protect confidential business information. The following information will help employees and IT admins increase security and protect them from cyber threats.
Update Apps on Time
Hackers can easily exploit vulnerabilities when you don’t update apps on time. The updates specifically address vulnerabilities that come to light. A Mac will have automatic updates enabled by default. Just make sure that your Mac is appropriately downloading updates. On your MacBook, you may have a variety of apps. They may be from the App Store or other identified developers. All apps need to be updated in time. You can learn how to update all apps in MacPaw’s post, which will guide you through the steps in simple language. Referring to a helpful online resource will ensure your safety and peace of mind.
Set Complex Password Requirements
Despite all the warnings against them, weak passwords are still in use. If you don’t want hackers to gain access to confidential information, you need to ensure that you use strong passwords. Using two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security. It means you must enter your login information in two different ways to gain access.
It’s a continuous process to make sure passwords are secure. You will need to keep upgrading their complexity. A strong password uses a combination of characters, numbers, and symbols. Using a password manager helps you keep track of complex passwords. Apple has an iCloud Keychain password manager that encrypts information with AES 256-bit encryption. You can also use third-party password managers.
Blacklist Applications Not Approved by Your Organization
Your employer may not want you to use some applications. The reason for this may be all about streamlining productivity and security. Certain apps can interfere with your work productivity. Others may cause security risks. This is why you need to be cautious when permitting apps. Only download those you know and trust. Unlicensed and harmful apps may be disguised as graphics or movie files.
If you want to restrict certain apps, you can do the following:
- Go to the Apple menu and open System Settings
- Click Screen Time
- To restrict apps, click App Restrictions
- Turn options on or off
You can also use Mac App blocker, which has a 15-day free trial period or try out other paid blockers to block apps.
Use an Antivirus
It’s crucial to protect your Mac against malware and viruses. Using an antivirus tool made for a Mac is the best way. Your Mac comes with XProtect anti-malware protection. However, you will get more complete protection than other third-party antivirus solutions for Macs. Ensure antivirus software is installed on all devices and keep it up to date.
Configure Network and Email Settings to Enhance Privacy
Another area where you may need to enhance privacy is in your network and email settings. It is possible to configure network settings on many devices. There are solutions where users can automatically connect to the network remotely without entering a password. You can also configure email settings to steer users away from malicious mail and phishing attacks.
Push Security Certificates Remotely
Security certificates ensure that sensitive information only reaches users authorized to access it. This provides a safer way for users to gain access to corporate information. Employers must find solutions that allow them to install and distribute security certificates among employers.
Remote file transfer enables seamless content exchange and is critical in today’s work environment. It does involve added security risks, and you will need to find solutions to secure the transfer of remote files.
Clear Caches and Cookies
To clear the cache, you need to go to the settings menu in the browser. Select Clear Caches and delete them. If you type ‘cookie’ into your address bar, you will see a drop-down menu of websites that installed cookies on your computer. This is where you can delete them.
Use a Password Manager
Every organization must establish a password policy, and it’s essential to adhere to it when setting up your account. This ensures you meet at least the minimum security requirements specified by your organization. Depending on your specific needs and the number of applications you use, you may have to remember numerous complex passwords, especially if your policy mandates monthly changes.
Writing down passwords should be strictly avoided, which can further complicate matters. Utilizing a password manager solves this problem, as it generates intricate, unique passwords that are challenging to crack. Additionally, it offers a secure, encrypted means of storing these passwords, streamlining the process of entering them. Various reliable password manager tools are available, catering to a wide range of organizational needs.
In addition to implementing a password manager, enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible for all your accounts, including your iCloud account, is advisable. Two-factor authentication provides an additional layer of security on top of your already complex password.
Configure Privacy Preferences
You will see four tabs when you click Security and Privacy in System Preferences. You must click on the padlock icon if you want to make changes.
- In the General tab, you can disable automatic login and set a password.
- One of the tabs is FileVault. It encrypts data on your hard drive. Turn it on, and no one forcing their way in can decrypt your data without a security key you set.
- Activate the Firewall and click Firewall Options. In the dialogue box, all the apps and services your system allows will appear. You can add or subtract any of them using the buttons at the base.
- The Privacy tab allows you to set permissions for apps so they only have access to personal data you want them to. For instance, “maps” may want access to location data. Don’t give access to data an app doesn’t need. When you’re finished, lock the padlock icon.
Remotely Push OS Updates
It’s possible to manage OS updates conveniently. This doesn’t need to disrupt workflow for users. There’s an option you can use to install an update at a specific time. You can also warn employees ahead of time about OS updates.
Ensure the Safekeeping of Lost Devices
The Activation Lock is an Apple feature that guards your device. It ensures users can only unlock a device using their Apple ID and password. No one will be able to access your device if you lose it.
Wrapping Up
Macs undeniably serve as outstanding tools for a wide range of tasks, seamlessly blending performance and user-friendly interfaces. However, it is imperative to acknowledge that no system is entirely impervious to vulnerabilities. Even in the seemingly impenetrable realm of Mac computing, there are still potential weaknesses that malicious actors can exploit. It’s essential always to be conscious of safety and implement all possible measures to prevent security incidents. They often happen when they are least expected. The above information will help ensure a business Mac’s safety and security.
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