10 ways to secure your older Mac from threats and malware

Apple’s Mac computer Due to companies’ strict control over hardware and software, it is generally considered safer than Windows PCs. Whether you are using a MacBook, iMac, or Mac Mini, built-in protection can keep your device safe from common threats. But there is no system completely immune. Hackers have repeatedly found ways to bypass Apple’s safeguards, especially on older Macs that no longer receive regular security updates.

Good news: Just because your Mac is aging doesn’t mean it has to be at risk. With some smart precautions, you can keep it safe and smooth even if it no longer qualifies for the latest MacOS version.

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1) Keep older Macs up to date

Even if your Mac no longer supports the latest MacOS version, Apple releases it frequently Safety Patch for older versions. Make sure that automatic update is enabled. Follow these steps to do this:

• choose Apple menu.
• choose System Settings

Long-term MAC malware comes with advanced features

• Then click General In the sidebar (you may need to scroll down).
• Click Software update.

• Click Information Button Automatic update next to
• Then open All options.

2) Update your apps and browsers

Applications, especially web browsers, are the main targets of attackers. If you are using Chrome, Firefox, Brave, or other browsers, make sure it is up to date. Most browsers have their own update system independent of MACOS, which is good news if you run an older operating system.

I’ll walk you through how to update Chrome on your Mac. If you are using Safari, you can skip this step as it will automatically update with the device’s software.

How to update the Chrome browser

• Open Google Chrome
• choose About Google Chrome From the Chrome menu

• Allow it Scan the latest updates

• Click Restart Complete the update

Also check for updates for productivity applications, media players and email clients. Developers usually tinker with silence, so even if the Mac itself doesn’t, it’s worth keeping all for now.

3) Strengthen password protection

A secure Mac starts with a strong password. Avoid simple combinations or any content containing personal information. If you have trouble remembering complex strings, use a password. Do not reuse passwords across services. If one account is compromised, the others will be. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.

Check out the best expert review password managers in 2025 Cyber​​​​​​​guy.com.

How to change the MAC login password (using the current password)

• Click Apple Menu In the upper left corner.
• choose System Settings (called system preferences in older MacOS versions).
• Navigate to Users and Groups Or log in with the new version of the password.
• Click Message (i) button Next to your user account.
• In the pop-up window that appears, click Change Next to the Password field.
• Enter your Old (current) passwordand then enter your New Password, Verify it, And set up a password hint (optional).
• Click change password Finalized.

4) Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) Added an extra layer of protection to your account. Even if someone speculates or steals your password, they can’t log in without a second code, usually sent to your phone or generated by the app.

Top multi-factor authentication apps to protect your account

Make sure to enable 2FA on your Apple ID, Gmail, social media accounts, banking apps, and any cloud service you use. This is an easy step that greatly improves your account security.

5) Install powerful antivirus software

Although MACs have built-in security features like Gatekeeper and XProtect, older systems may not receive the latest threat definitions. Installing third-party antivirus software can help fill the gap.

The best way to protect yourself from installing malware (malicious links that may access private information) is to install antivirus software on all devices. This protection can also remind you about phishing email and ransomware scams, ensuring your personal information and digital assets are secure.

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6) Open FileVault to encrypt data

Even if your Mac is older, FileVault can still encrypt the entire hard drive. If your device is lost or stolen, you can protect your data.

How to open fileVault:

• go System Settings > Privacy and Security > fileVault.
• Click Open fileVault.
• Choose to use your meCloud Account Or create a Recovery key.
• Restart your Mac Start encryption.

Expert tips: If your Mac is too old to support FileVault 2 (full disk encryption), consider using the Disk Utility to manually encrypt sensitive files.

7) Use a VPN

Outdated MACOS versions can be vulnerable to DNS hijacking or network-based attacks. By allowing VPNs to encrypt data in data, your internet traffic can be encrypted in transit. A reliable VPN is essential to protect your online privacy and ensure a secure, high-speed connection. Use a VPN with a logs-free policy to increase privacy and protection.

For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPN to browse the network privately Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices exist Cyber​​​​​​​guy.com.

8) Remove unused applications and system extensions

If old applications and background processes are no longer maintained, vulnerabilities can be introduced.

• Opened Discoverer > Apply and delete Anything you don’t use.
• Check System Settings > General > Log in to the project For anything unfamiliar.
• Review System SettingsS> Privacy and Security > Extended And disable outdated tools.

9) Limited use (non-ADMIN) user accounts for daily use

Running as an administrator all the time increases your risk. Create a standard user account for everyday use and what can malware do if it is sneaky.

How to add a standard user:

• go System Settings > Users and Groups.
• Click Add an account (+).
• choose standard Not the administrator.

10) Back up data regularly

If the malware does sneak in or your system crashes, the most recent backup can save a day.

• use Time Machine (Built-in in MacOS) Backup to an external drive.
• Or choose one Cloud backup providesSupports R for MacOS.

Set it to automatic backup, at least once a week. This is Step by step instructions Back up your Mac.

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Kurt’s key points

Just because your Mac is aging doesn’t mean it doesn’t have the defensive power. With regular updates, strong passwords and added layers such as FileVault and Antivirus Protection, you can stay threatened. Now take a moment to lock content, delete risk apps and back up data. These small moves have a big impact in ensuring older Macs are safe.

How often do you change your Mac? By writing to us, let us know Cyber​​​​​​​guy.com.

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