Macs come with a protective veil that isn’t available in other operating systems. Apple designs these systems with in-built security features. But there’s a misconception that has been doing the rounds for years. There’s no proof that Macs are inherently more secure against viruses, malware, and other cyber threats. Instead, cybercriminals are focusing more on targeting the larger Windows ecosystem.
Therefore, you must utilize all forms of security and protection tools at your disposal to thwart all attempts by hackers and cybercriminals to take over your Mac system. Some of the threats that Mac users must be aware of are given below:
- Browser hijackers
A browser hijacker is a type of malware designed to take control of your web browser. Once installed, this malware will change the default search engine and homepage. This is done to generate revenue for a hacker behind hijacking the browser.
Generally, browser hijackers collect information to display adverts. Some may even download files on your macOS system to steal your data and monitor your activity. An example of this is downloading keyloggers.
Furthermore, browser hijackers may even install toolbars claiming to offer discount deals or coupons. In reality, these toolbars will lead you to malicious websites specifically designed to enhance the advertising revenue for the cybercriminal.
One such browser hijacker is Search Marquis. This virus redirects all the web traffic to its landing page, which has a search field that redirects the search to Yahoo or Bing. Although this redirect virus is not destructive, it is annoying and can be taxing for your system. So, you may want to know how to remove Marquis from Mac. You can install CleanMyMac X to let the software effortlessly remove the redirect virus on your behalf.
- Adware and PUPs
Adware and PUPs are reportedly riskier for Mac users than for Windows. Recently, adware attacks have been increasing on Mac computers.
Adware generates ads, and PUPs are unwanted programs that come bundled with packages to download. They are highly susceptible to security risks and may infect your system with viruses or malware. Since Apple is not acting against these threats, they are becoming significant, and Mac users must stay alert.
- Malicious browser extensions or plugins
Browser threats, like malicious extensions and plugins, may affect your Mac. These browser additions are convenient and useful but lucrative attack vectors. Although Macs come preloaded with the highly optimized Safari browser, many users prefer using Google Chrome. Although the extensions accepted into Chrome’s Web Store are typically vetted, there are times when developers sell the product to a different party. These different parties might have malicious intentions for the vetted products. If the auto-update feature is turned on, the intentions of the new vendor will be quickly installed.
Also, extensions are sometimes hijacked, and malicious codes are deployed onto trusting users. If this happens, the attacker can run anything on your system, from data-stealing malware to coin miners.
Moreover, browser extensions are fielded to collect user data and sell them to marketers. Since data brokers are not compliant with data protection laws, it can put your data at risk.
The solution is to use as few extensions as possible. You must examine the extensions carefully before installing them on your web browser. Also, remove the extensions and plugins you don’t use anymore.
- Social engineering
Social engineering is a trending cyber threat that successfully targets all platforms, including macOS. Unfortunately, since Mac users put their guard down because of the apparent safety net offered by Apple, they sometimes fall victim to social engineering scams.
Some of the social engineering scams targeting Mac users are:
- Misleading ads and pop-ups that say their devices have a security problem and invite users to download malware.
- Fraudulent emails and other messages that appear to be sent from legitimate companies, including Apple.
- Lucrative promotions that offer prizes and free products.
- Scam voicemails or phone calls may impersonate Apple support or the help desks of other companies.
- Unwanted subscriptions or calendar invitations.
You must be aware of these telltale scenarios. Never leave your guard down, or these social engineering scams will steal your data and harm you. To protect yourself from these scams, you must use two-factor authentication to protect your iCloud or Apple account. You can also install antivirus software and other security tools to be completely protected against the bad guys.
The Bottom Line
These are some popular cyber threats plaguing Mac users and you must protect your devices against them. Therefore, you must take proper steps to safeguard yourself against these threats. Although Apple Macs have in-built security features, you must add extra layers of precaution so you are completely safe from malicious attacks. Some steps you can take are installing antivirus software, not downloading attachments from unknown sources, not clicking on unknown links, etc.