Cybercriminal activity has risen in the past decade. Each year brings new threats, forcing companies and users to change the way they treat security. ThiefQuest, the newest macOS virus, once again proves that, not only has cybercrime risen, but it’s much more dangerous than before.
According to researchers, ThiefQuest (also named EvilQuest) encrypts a device’s files and installs a keylogger—turns out ThiefQuest is ransomware with extra features. So, how can you protect yourself against ThiefQuest and other viruses like it? Allow me to tell you!
We don’t think much of our security when surfing the Internet. Why would we? We tend to stick to only a few websites, and very few of us run into real dangers. At least…we think so. In reality, hackers and cybercriminals can view your online activity if your data is unencrypted, which can lead to your data being stolen and you becoming the latest victim of a cyberattack.
Remedying this requires you to actively encrypt your online activity, which requires special software to do so. One piece of said special software is a VPN. A VPN can help you encrypt your data and prevent hackers and your ISP from spying on your information.
Take your pick when it comes to the plethora of options for your next Mac VPN. With a reputable one, you won’t have to worry about cyber criminals picking up your online activity!
A problem many of us face when it comes to cybersecurity is where to start. Not all of us know the ins-and-outs of cybersecurity, much less what programs do what and why. And not understanding where to start can lead to delays, which can lead to security vulnerabilities, which then lead to cyberattacks. Fortunately, there are programs that help us identify what you need to focus on in terms of cybersecurity.
Vulnerability scanners scan your device and network in order to detect present vulnerabilities, helping you figure out what you need to patch before a cybercriminal takes advantage of the vulnerability. These are nice programs, pretty easy to use, and allow you to get a breakdown on what’s just not working on your network.
Apple’s main demographic is the laptop/mobile device market—people who are on the go and need a lightweight, fast solution to work while moving around. Problem is—and I’m guilty of this—us people with laptops tend to leave them unattended every now and then.
Leaving your device unattended opens them up to security threats, threats such as being stolen, a cybercriminal installing malicious software, and vice versa. Even if you’re not in a public space, there’s no telling what could happen.
A simple solution to this is to, well, not leave your device alone. Always have your eyes on your laptop, even if it causes a minor inconvenience. And if you’re at home and only use your laptop at home, be sure to keep your laptop in a secure place.
Another tip to note which falls under this is to not leave your device connected. If you’re not using the internet connection or Bluetooth, it makes sense to turn them off. Unknown to most people, when you leave your Bluetooth on, it exposes you to a whole series of security concerns.
Practicing proper cybersecurity is essential in this day and age. ThiefQuest is only one of many threats that lurk on the Internet, and you need to be prepared for any of them. With these 3 tips I laid out, you should have no trouble keeping your Mac safe, from a reputable VPN to knowing the vulnerabilities that exist on your network. Secure your Mac as soon as possible, too!