IT INFORMATION SECURITY WEB SITE

Mac OS:
What Would Attackers Want With My Mac?

You'd be surprised to learn that a brand new Mac was hacked in less than 24 hours after being connected to the campus network. How? No password on the computer. Computer break-ins on Macintosh computers are happening with increasing frequency. Hackers are able to gain access to Macs that have weak or no passwords, or unpatched security holes. To protect yourself, be aware of the facts and issues affecting Mac security.

  • Most computer break-ins are due to weak or no passwords. Passwords are your first line of defense against a cyberattack. Set strong passwords on your computer login, RU and personal accounts.
  • If you run a secondary operating system such as Windows on your Mac, you must follow the security guidelines for BOTH operating systems.
  • If you run Microsoft Office products, (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint), pay attention to IT's security alerts pertaining to these applications. Flaws in these applications may pertain to both Windows and Mac users.
  • Security holes in "Internet-facing" application (e.g., QuickTime, Safari, Instant Messenger), are another way for attackers or malicious software to gain access to your computer. Keep your software, as well as your operating system, up-to-date.

Macs are not immune to cybercrime. Follow best practices and guidelines recommended by IT.
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Security Checklists & Resources
Security Checklist - Mac check
Macs are not free of security flaws. Complete this checklist to "harden" your computer against an attacker.

I have set a strong password on the default Administrator account on my computer.
(How do I set/change the Administrator password?)


Software Update is set to check for new updates daily from Apple.
(How do I run Software Update on my Macintosh?)
When Software Update alerts me that there are new updates available, I install them immediately.
(How do I install updates from Software Update?)
I have Office Update set to check weekly for new updates (Office 2004 or later).
(How do I update Microsoft Office on my Macintosh?)
If I am using a secondary OS (Parallels or Dual Boot), I apply the appropriate security guidelines for both OS's.
(What are the full RU security guidelines for Mac and PC?)








I have Mac's built-in or a third party personal firewall installed and running.
(What's a firewall? | How do I turn on Mac's built-in firewall?)

The name of my third-party personal firewall software is:

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My personal firewall software is made by this company:

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If there is a problem, I understand how to shut down all Internet activity using my personal firewall.
I follow good laptop security practices when I travel with my laptop.
(What are good security practices for traveling with a laptop?)


Security Awareness Checklists

Passwords - Macintosh OS - Windows OS - Anti-Spyware for Windows
Anti-Virus Software - Sensitive Data - Backups - Email - Internet - Identity Theft
Mobile Devices - Internet Cafes & Public Computers - Physical Security