The recent outbreaks of the Flashback Trojans have received a lot of attention from the people who are tired of viruses and malware. Technically speaking, all Mac viruses and malware penetrate your device through unwanted apps and games. Thus, it is important to secure your device as early as possible before it's too late and you lose all of your data.
Here Michael Brown, the Customer Success Manager of Semalt, has shared some simple tips to secure a Mac from viruses and malware.
1.Disable Java
If you have installed Flashback and other types of malware and viruses through Java, you should uninstall or disable it as early as possible. Apple and Microsoft have provided their users with a lot of Java security updates and tips. You can review those updates to know how to disable Java that has been infected with viruses and malware. This will prevent your Mac device from getting damaged.
2. Update Your Apps and OS X Software Regularly
It is very important to update your applications and OS X software on a regular basis. Apple releases security updates every week to keep its users informed about what type of third party software and apps are good to go with. You can prevent malware and viral attacks by maintaining your apps and games once a week. For this, you should go to the Software Update section and download the latest Apple application.
3. Disable or Remove Adobe Acrobat Reader
You don't need to keep Adobe Acrobat Reader on your Mac's memory if you are not using it. Tech experts prove that Adobe Acrobat Reader has had multiple security issues and breaches. That is why it is highly recommended that you uninstall it and do not install it ever again. We suggest you to find out alternatives as Adobe Acrobat Reader is not a good program.
4. Install Anti-Virus Software for Mac OS X
A lot of people use antivirus programs on their Mac devices. It is okay to go with that but make sure you have updated your antivirus program. You should install and scan your device on a regular basis. It will keep your Mac device safe from malware and can help you enjoy the internet without any problem.
5. Use a Flash Block Plugin
Once you have disables the Flash and Acrobat services, the next step is to use a Flash Block plugin. It is important to install this plugin to avoid any problem on the internet. That can prevent malware and all types of viruses by keeping your Mac device protected. The plugin is available for all browsers and is free of cost.
6. Disable Automatic File Opening After Download
Once you have downloaded the desired files, it is important to disable automatic file opening options. Safari defaults to opening files after they get downloaded. For your online safety and security, you should disable this feature at your earliest.
7. Enable Anti-Malware Definitions
Allowing anti-malware definitions is essential. That's why you should double check if they have been enabled properly or not. For this, you should go to the Open System option and click on "Security & Privacy." You should also see if the list is manually updated. If it is not, then you should update it as early as possible.
8. Avoid Installing Random Software
While using the internet, you would be asked to install a large number of programs. It is a trick of hackers as they want to steal your personal information. You should never install something that you are not assured of while surfing the internet. Once some strange things appear, it is recommended to close those windows or restart your computer.