Historically, Macs have been regarded as safe and secure for many reasons, but this perception has changed in recent years. The number of Mac-specific viruses and malware is increasing alongside the platform’s increasing popularity as a daily-driver client. In 2021, security specialist Patrick Wardle discovered eight new malware families targeting Macs. This figure increased to 13 in 2022 and 21 in 2023. While these figures may appear small in contrast to those found targeting Windows OS-based computers, they serve as a reminder that Macs are no longer as immune from attack as they were in their pre-BSD operating system era.

There are a number of solutions available to protect Macs from malware, phishing attempts, and other online threats. While many malware instances do not target macOS, Macs in enterprise settings can be protected from passing on infections to more inherently susceptible platforms. From password managers to backup solutions, here are the key tools every Mac-using enterprise should have for “complete” security in Mac-only and mixed topologies.

Password manager

Passwords are an unreliable form of identity verification. Many users forget passwords, reuse the same ones across several sites, or have their credentials exposed in breaches.

While alternatives like Apple’s Face ID provide extra protection as biometric 2FA, passwords are still the norm for most services, and many do not mandate extra verification. Password managers are useful in situations where passwords remain central to platform security. They securely store all passwords in an encrypted vault which can be optionally protected by biometrics like Face ID, and can create strong, unique credentials for each service. Many even offer alerts if credentials have been compromised.

Apple’s iCloud Keychain provides some important features but alone has limited capabilities. The new Passwords app in iOS 18 offers a more comprehensive solution, featuring advanced alerts for weak or reused passwords, and a secure, user-friendly experience that competes with full-service, third party options. However, it is currently limited to Apple users and doesn’t permit exporting credentials.

For those who currently use iCloud Keychain, the new Passwords app brings some enhanced security and extra convenience. If users are satisfied with a third-party password manager, its use can be continued until Apple adds migration options.

Antivirus software

While macOS is known, rightly or wrongly for inherent security, a growing number of Mac-specific threats highlights the need for additional protection. Malware, phishing attempts, and other online threats evolve and macOS is becoming a more attractive target

Antivirus software adds an extra layer of security by checking for malicious files, blocking risky websites, and detecting potential vulnerabilities. Antivirus software helps keep Mac users and co-workers safe by scanning regularly and providing real-time protection against emerging security threats. Popular antivirus options include:

• Intego Mac Internet Security X9: Combines VirusBarrier for virus protection and NetBarrier for network filtering, allowing custom configurations for different environments (home, work, or public). VirusBarrier helps blocks malware, while NetBarrier acts as a firewall, letting users manage connections and deny access as needed.
• AVG Internet Security for Mac: Provides protection through offerings like Computer Protection, Web & Email Security, Hack Prevention, and Payment Security. Its Smart Scan checks for updates and scans for malware, while additional features like Ransomware Shield, Network Inspector, and Fake Website Shield enhance overall security.

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

A VPN is considered important when connecting to public Wi-Fi, as it can protect sensitive data from potential interception. A VPN’s encryption of an internet connection makes it difficult for hackers to access information and can safeguard most online activities and ensure better levels of privacy. The additional degree of security is especially important when users access personal accounts, such as online banking or email on shared networks.

Firewall protection

A firewall is a frequently overlooked yet can be an important component of client security. It regulates incoming and outgoing connections, typically based on rulesets, blocking unauthorised network traffic inbound and/or outbound, while allowing approved connections between client and remote hosts. In recent years, many users have relied on routers for firewall- or NAT-based protection, assuming the gateway device will block arbitrary connections. However, this can be unreliable, especially with ISP-provided routers that may not offer full control to administrators. IPv6 (internet protocol), for instance, is often unconfigured by default, and, in the main, is little understood by average users (and many professional systems administrators and cybersecurity personnel).

Both Windows and macOS come with built-in firewalls that are simple to configure and the process of policy distribution is relatively trivial. Client firewalls are typically enabled by default, but it’s worth verifying. On macOS, System Settings > Network > Firewall can confirm its status.

Backup solutions

Backing up data ensures files can be recovered if a client Mac is lost, damaged, or infected by ransomware. Time Machine, Apple’s built-in backup solution, automatically backs up files to an external drive. For added security, cloud-based options like Backblaze and iCloud provide Mac-compatible remote backups.

Time Machine requires individual external drives, then configuration at Settings > General > Time Machine to select a backup disk. Time Machine will then automatically back up data, allowing for personal recovery by the user.

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