In general, macOS is considered a secure operating system, but hackers and data thieves do not stop at the Apple system. In order to secure your system in the best possible way, you should ideally not only use the Mac’s on-board tools. In this guide, we will show you how to secure your system in addition to that, in order to protect it from viruses and data under macOS.
A Mac does not need a virus scanner – macOS is secure. Many users start from this point of view. And in fact, the Apple operating system offers you increased security through various on-board tools. But the data thieves do not stop at the increasingly popular Mac computers and try with new malicious programs and scams to get your personal data.
To protect yourself against this, we give you some tips on virus and data protection under macOS below. We collect further tips and tricks for you in our security center.
Mac security: On-board tools for virus protection
In the Mac operating system integrated on-board tools provide a certain security. This includes the so-called XProtect function. This is noticeable after file downloads from the Internet by popping up a security message. Downloaded files are scanned by XProtect for malware, you will be informed about any findings with a corresponding warning.
On the other hand, you have a firewall on your Mac with which you can block incoming connections. This prevents unauthorized access to your system, but also blocks software applications that are in use. You can continue to use appropriate programs via an exception, which appears the first time you use the program. You can activate the function in the “System Preferences” in the area of “Security. Switch to the “Firewall” tab and click on “Activate firewall.
What to do against malware? And help tools like Malwarebytes Anti-Malware? Netzwelt explains how you can effectively remove malware under Windows and macOS.
Additional virus protection: Antivirus software for macOS
On-board tools are a good basis for protection against malware. For cautious users, the functions may also be sufficient – but who is much on the net, should rely on third-party applications. This is the only way to scan the entire system for viruses.
Here you will find a variety of antivirus programs for macOS on the market. Almost all large manufacturers provide their virus scanners known from the Windows system also in an appropriate version for your Mac. Which programs are really good, we show you in our overview of the best virus scanners for macOS.
Securing important data: Encryption under macOS
If third parties gain unauthorized access to your system, the personal and sensitive data is usually stored unprotected on the hard drive. You can prevent that by encrypting your important data. macOS offers you several functions for this purpose: With the Disk Utility you can encrypt specific folders, while with FileVault you can encrypt and lock your entire hard drive.
Many online services offer two-factor authentication for more security of your account. We explain how you can use this option.
Safe surfing: Latest phishing and fraud alerts
The most elaborate security measures are undermined if you surf the Internet carelessly or open files inattentively. Hackers and data thieves often hide dangerous viruses behind tempting offers. To avoid falling for such scams, we inform you about current phishing attempts, spam mails and scam warnings on our overview page.
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