7 cybersecurity tips for a safer online experience

Information provided by MacPaw Software

Cybersecurity shouldn’t feel like a chore. It shouldn’t feel complicated or intimidating. Cybersecurity is a benefit: it helps improve your online safety and protect yourself online. Staying safe is easy — here are simple practices that will keep you secure in a digital environment. 

1. Update your devices regularly

If you click “remind me later” every time you see an update prompt, it’s time to break this habit. Updates often contain critical security patches that can fix vulnerabilities already present. Try to update your macOS iOS devices when you see a new OS version is available. 

Don’t forget about updating your software as well. Set up automatic updates in the Mac App Store to keep all your favorite apps up to date. If you want to update both Mac App Store apps and those downloaded elsewhere, you can use Updater in CleanMyMac X: it never misses an essential software arrival. 

2. Enable multi-factor authentication

Not every account and device has multi-factor authentication; still, it gets more common as security threats rise. You may already have it configured for your Apple devices, like when you use a Face ID or fingerprint scan to access your phone or laptop. 

Two-factor authentication is essential for banking, email, and social media accounts. Consider turning it on in online stores as well to make sure the banking credentials you’ve entered can’t be accessed by anyone else. 

3. Use unique and strong passwords

It’s not easy to create unique passwords for every online account you have. Many people are using the same password for multiple accounts. But if one of these accounts is hacked, these may put your other accounts at risk. A password manager can solve this problem by creating unique and strong passwords for every one of your online accounts.

How secure is my password?

Your password should always be at least 12 characters long and contain both uppercase and lowercase letters. Apple made it easy to create and save passwords and passkeys on any of your devices. Your device will generate a complex password for app and site logins. Otherwise, create a “passphrase,” that is a sentence at least 12 characters long. Make sure it’s easy to remember, such as ImStayingH0me2Night_!.

4. Recognize phishing and block the sender

Phishing is one of the common security threats that attempts to trick you into clicking on fraudulent links. The link usually takes you to a seemingly legitimate website where you can be asked to enter your credentials or other personal data. 

Phishing can also look like an innocent email from someone you know. But it may contain a malicious attachment that can infect your computer with malware. So, if you receive an unexpected email with suspicious links or attachments, mark it as spam, block the sender, and report it to your security team if it’s your work device. 

Smishing is another threat you should be aware of. Unwanted links can be found even in an innocent text message. The rule of thumb is to avoid clicking any links if you’re unsure where they take you. 

5. Use a VPN when on public Wi-Fi

According to the Forbes study, 43% of respondents had their security compromised while using public Wi-Fi. Most people use public Wi-Fi in cafes and hotels, unaware that scammers may intercept their credentials, banking details, and other personal data. 

VPN reroutes your internet traffic, hiding your online activities under a layer of encryption. We recommend always using a VPN to protect your data if you need to access an open Wi-Fi network. 

At MacPaw, we’ve created a VPN solution that combines an intuitive interface and powerful protection. ClearVPN makes staying safe, providing a hassle-free user experience and unmatched privacy.  

6. Be careful about what you download

If you follow the simple tips above, you’ll be able to avoid most of the security threats. But malware gets increasingly sophisticated, so staying vigilant is the best way to prevent it. 

Malware is often bundled with seemingly legitimate apps and freeware. Be careful while installing third-party apps on your Mac, and always check if they are safe. And if you spot signs of malware on your Mac, check out our article, where we explain how to remove malware. 

7. Don’t overshare

It’s easy to get caught up in the social media frenzy and share snippets of your daily life non-stop. But not everything is safe to share. Something as innocent as informing your followers about your vacation plans (when you’ll be away from home) may have damaging consequences. 

Never share your live location, address, phone number, and other personal information to avoid identity theft. Consider what a picture or video tells about you and how it may affect others.