Help Index > Macintosh Computers

Securing a Macintosh Workstation

Because the majority of users out there utilize Windows platforms, Mac users have felt somewhat distanced from the need to take security precautions. However, there are indications that attacks on Mac platforms are on the upswing, especially since the latest OS version of Mac has a revised directory structure and customized binaries based on the Unix platform.

Checklist:

1. Install an antivirus software package.
2. Choose a secure password.
3. Disable automatic login (automatic login is the default behavior for new Mac OS X computers and fresh installations of Mac OS X.)
4. Use a password protected screen saver
5. Follow guidelines below in "Maintaining Adequate Security and Updates for Mac OS X." (Mac OS X only)
6. Check credentials of anyone asking for information about your computer.
7. Turn-off your computer when you leave for the day.

Maintaining Adequate Security and Updates for Mac OS X Guidelines:

• Leave unnecessary system services turned off.
  Apple configures their systems for security by turning off, by default, certain services such as FTP, file sharing and remote access. Turning on any of these services can leave your computer vulnerable to security intrusions or other problems. To prevent unauthorized access to files and folders on your system, make certain that you have set them up properly.
  (Also see Safari Vulnerability)
• Do not attempt root access.
  Apple disables root access, by default, to the Mac OS X system. We recommend that you not attempt access to this account. Apple designates a system administrator user account to accomplish most necessary tasks, thereby making root access unnecessary.
• Routinely check current security updates.
  Review security updates for Mac OS X at www.apple.com/support/security/security_updates.html .
• Stay updated on current security patches:
• Join a mailing list to view Apple updates on security patches and
  bulletins at http://lists.apple.com/mailman/listinfo/security-announce.
• Set Software Update to daily check for updates [Software Update, located in System Preferences, can automatically download and install the latest Apple software.]

Help:
If you have questions, or need assistance, please contact the Service
Desk (706-721-4000 or e-mail ).