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Quick Security Checklist for Macs

Writer's picture: Charles EdgeCharles Edge


Macs enjoy a reputation for robustness and deserve it. Yet, no system is invincible. To truly fortify an Apple device, a proactive approach is key. This checklist outlines the basic steps to bolster a Mac's defenses and safeguard data against a spectrum of threats.


I. Foundational Defense:


  1. System Updates: Apple regularly releases software updates patching vulnerabilities and enhancing security features. Enable automatic updates in System Preferences > Software Update to ensure your Mac is always armed with the latest shields.

  2. Gatekeeper: This built-in gatekeeper regulates app installation, only allowing downloads from the App Store or identified developers. In System Preferences > Security & Privacy, ensure "App Store and identified developers" is selected under "Allow apps downloaded from:".

  3. Firewall: The firewall acts as a digital border, monitoring incoming and outgoing network traffic. In System Preferences > Security & Privacy, activate the firewall to filter suspicious connections.

  4. Find My Mac: This invaluable feature helps locate a lost or stolen Mac. Activate it in System Preferences > Apple ID > iCloud > Find My Mac. Remember, this requires an active internet connection for tracking.


II. Access Control:


  1. Strong Passwords: Weak passwords are a hacker's open sesame. Craft strong, unique passwords for each account, ideally exceeding 12 characters and incorporating a mix of upper/lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider a password manager like 1Password or Bitwarden for secure storage and convenient access.

  2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of protection by enabling 2FA wherever available. This usually involves a secondary verification step, like a code sent to your phone, upon login attempts.

  3. User Accounts: Create separate user accounts for each individual using the Mac. This compartmentalizes data and privileges, limiting potential damage in case of a compromised account.

  4. Screen Sharing: Restrict screen sharing access in System Preferences > Sharing > Screen Sharing. Only grant access to trusted individuals and disable it when not needed. Further, disable all sharing. Why share printers or files any more? Bad call...


III. Software Safeguards:


  1. Antivirus: While Macs are generally less susceptible to malware, a reputable antivirus software like Malwarebytes or Intego can provide an extra layer of protection, especially for users downloading files from various sources.

  2. App Sandboxing: This macOS feature restricts apps' access to system resources and other apps' data, minimizing potential damage from malicious software.

  3. Software Updates: Keep all installed software updated to benefit from latest security patches. Enable automatic updates for apps in the App Store settings.

  4. Permissions: Regularly review app permissions in System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy. Revoke unnecessary permissions granted to apps you no longer use.


IV. Secure Browsing:

  1. Web Browser Security: Use a secure web browser like Firefox or Safari with built-in anti-tracking and phishing protection features. Regularly update your browser for optimal security.

  2. Website Scrutiny: Be cautious when visiting unfamiliar websites. Look for HTTPS encryption (indicated by a padlock symbol) and avoid downloading files from untrusted sources.

  3. Password Managers: Utilize password managers for secure logins on websites and avoid entering passwords manually, especially on public Wi-Fi.

  4. Ad Blockers: Consider using ad blockers like uBlock Origin to minimize exposure to potentially malicious ads and trackers.


V. Data Protection:

  1. Time Machine Backups: Regularly back up your Mac using Time Machine or another reliable backup solution. This ensures data recovery in case of system failures, malware attacks, or accidental deletion.

  2. File Encryption: Encrypt sensitive files like financial documents or personal photos using tools like FileVault or Disk Utility. This renders them unreadable without the encryption key.

  3. Cloud Storage: Store critical data in secure cloud storage platforms like iCloud, Dropbox, or Google Drive. Ensure two-factor authentication is enabled for your cloud storage accounts.

  4. Data Disposal: Securely erase confidential data before discarding or selling your Mac. Tools like Secure Erase Disk in Disk Utility can overwrite data, making it unrecoverable.


VI. Vigilance and Awareness:

  1. Phishing Awareness: Be wary of phishing emails and text messages designed to steal your personal information or login credentials. Never click suspicious links or attachments.

  2. Social Engineering: Remain vigilant against social engineering scams, where attackers manipulate you into revealing sensitive information. Don't share personal details with unknown individuals online or over the phone.

  3. Software Downloads: Only download software from trusted sources like the App Store or verified developer websites. Avoid downloading cracked or pirated software, as it can be riddled with malware.

  4. System Monitoring: Keep an eye on your Mac'


VII. Business

  1. Mobile Device Management (MDM): Enroll devices into an MDM in order to get institutional features like Automated Device Enrollment, remote wipe of end user devices, automated software deployment, and much more. Every company with Apple devices should have an MDM; full stop. And that’s not just because the founders of Secret Chest built one… We don’t work there any more. But we believe in our old company - and the category.

  2. EDR: EDR stands for Endpoint Detection and Response. It's a type of cybersecurity software that focuses on protecting individual devices, like laptops, desktops, and mobile phones, from cyberattacks. Think of this like malware provention and automating a bunch of the stuff from earlier in the checklist, but… centralizzed. So fancy letters to say we’re centralizing things and adding a zero to the end of the price tag (although with bulk purchasing hopefully not).

  3. SIEM: A SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) is a security software platform that collects and analyzes data from various security sources across your IT infrastructure, such as networks, servers, applications, and security devices. It then presents this data in a way that helps you identify and respond to security threats. Also, just for giggles, some vendors rock the SEIM letters. Because we love to make stuff up.

  4. Federated Identity Providers (IDP): These tools enable centralizing usernames, passwords, and other resources - and keep those objects from flying over network interfaces. Directory services are another adjacent market to password management, but most organizations will have one of each.

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