When you talk about computers with anyone, the topic of security always comes up in one form or another. With all the scammers, spoofers, SPAM, AI generated voices, and just the regular alien high frequency mind control it's something that everyone is concerned about. But did you know that you are your best security? Yes, you are the one who has the greatest ability to protect yourself from all the bad actors, malware, and scams out there. No software can do it better. You are in total control of your online digital destiny.
Now, this is for us Mac users. Windows PCs are a different animal. Having a Windows computer is like walking into a kindergarten class. You will walk out with some sort of virus. This is not the case for Macs, iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and all the rest of it. So, just focusing on the Macs today, here are three ways that you can get a handle on your personal digital security.
1.) Mind Your Computer Password Your computer password, sometimes referred to as your Mac administrative password, is the most powerful tool in your security arsenal. Absolutely nothing can be installed or added to your Mac without you entering in this password. That's right! No malware, virus, adware, or anything can be added to your machine without you installing it and allowing it with your computer password. When you get that pop-up asking for that password, read the prompt and take a minute to make sure you want to allow whatever it is asking. This simple step can secure your computer better than any software at any price.
2.) Get a Handle on Your Passwords You absolutely, positively need to get a handle on your password game. If you have weak passwords, use the same one for multiple accounts, or haven't changed your email password in a decade, then you are asking for trouble. Whether you use a spreadsheet, a third-party app, or Apple's built in password manager, you must have good passwords for all your important accounts. Apple will be enhancing its app called Passwords in macOS Sequoia that will be released in the fall. But don't wait until then. Good password management is just too important.
3.) Enable FileVault Encryption This is especially important if you travel with a MacBook Pro/Air. FileVault encrypts your data so that it can only be accessed with your computer password. It can also stop bad actors from encrypting and locking your drive, but this is extremely rare in the Mac world. To enable FileVault go to System Settings -> Privacy & Security -> FileVault. |