Considering over 100 million Mac OS X users world-wide, primarily in
US, security measures for Mac has importance. Since as a popular one,
it also becomes a target for threats. There are some Apple specific
malwares like Mac Trojan Flashback which shows that even Mac is not 100%
risk free. Here's some security tips for Apple Mac OS X users to
protects their system from malwares, viruses and Trojans.
1. Disable Java: As we already, more than 700,000 computers
running Mac infected with Flashback Trojan. This threat affects on
systems with outdated java plugin running. Since it's not easier to
update java as in windows, easier option is to disable java from within
the web browser itself(Safari). you can disable java by going to Applications > Utilities > General tab.
2. Run mac updates regularly : Install all available patches and
security fixes. to perform updates: click on the apple icon on the top
of the screen and choose "Software Update".
3. Turn off automatic logins: Unless your're at home, do not
enable automatic logins. It may be an annoying job to re-enter the
passwords every time the system boots up but it makes your data more
secure.
4. Secure internet connection - Enable firewall: Like windows,
Mac OS x have an integrated firewall, but it has to be activated by the
user for the first time. Click apple's logo at the top, click System Preferences, select Security the Firewall tab.
5. Stop communications sharing : Communication services like
bluetooth keeping in sharing mode in public places can cause the system
vulnerable to external access. So when you're not using them , turn it
off.
6. Download only from trusted sites: Most torrent files and crack zip files usually conatins malwares and viruses. Avoid downloading such items.
7. Use a strong password: Donot use any easy-to-guess strings like your pet's or Net ID. Combination of two or three words could create a good password.
8. Disable Guest account: to disable guest access to your system, follow there steps
- Click System Properties
- Open Accounts > Login options.
- Disable "Automatic Login"
- Set login window to display Name and Password
- Click "Guest Account", disable 'Allow guest to log into this computer'.
9. Disable Autofill in Safari : If there are chances of others using your computer, its recommended that you do not use the autofill feature in safari browser.
- Open Safari choose, choose "Preferences"from menu.
- Goto Autofill tab
- Uncheck "Autofill web forms using info from address book card".
10. Get a good security software : Virus scanners and security softwares like Clam Xav, Virus Barrier and Kaspersky Anti-virus are made specifically for Mac OS X.
