To protect your computer against viruses and other security breaches, download anti-virus software and keep it updated. Anti-virus software for Macintosh computers is available at no cost to members of the UMass Amherst community.
Download & Configure McAfee VirusScan for Mac OS X

Security breaches occur most often on systems that are not up-to-date. Use Software Update - an application that searches for and installs Macintosh updates. Always update your software (e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader, Flash Player, etc.) when prompted to do so.

Macs come with a default Administrator Account that you may use for every computer session. Because viruses and trojans are most harmful when entering via an Administrative Account, we recommend that you have a Standard User Account for everyday use. To create a Standard User Account:

1. Go to Apple Menu > System Preferences... In the System Preferences window, under System, click Accounts.
2. In the Accounts window, the Users tab will display current users for your computer. Click + (Add a user account) (the plus sign at bottom, left). A pop-up screen where you can enter account information will appear:
   • From the drop-down menu next to New Account:, make sure Standard is selected.
   • In the Name: field, enter the full user name for your new account.
   • In the Short Name: field, enter an abbreviated name for your new account.
   • In the Password: field, enter your desired account password.
   • In the Verify: field, re-enter your new account password.
   • (optional) In the Password Hint: field, enter a reminder that can help you recall your password in case you forget it.
3. When you finish entering the information above, click Create Account. You will return to the Accounts window, and your new account will appear listed at left.

Most hacked computers have either a poor password or none at all on the Administrative Account. To create a password for your Administrative Account:

1. Go to Apple Menu > System Preferences... In the System Preferences window, under System, click Accounts.
2. In the Accounts window, select the Administrative Account (usually labeled as Admin at left), then click Reset Password.... A pop-up screen will open.
3. On the pop-up screen:
   • In the Password: field, enter your desired account password.
   • In the Verify: field, re-enter your new account password.
   • (optional) In the Password Hint: field, enter a reminder that can help you recall your password in case you forget it.
   • When you finish entering your password information, click Reset Password. You will return to the Accounts window.

Your Mac's System Preferences controls how your operating system functions. Follow the tips below to configure System Preferences for maximum security.

1. Go to Apple Menu > System Preferences.... The System Preferences window will open.
2. In the System Preferences window, click Security. The Security screen will open.
3. On the Security screen:
   • Check the box next to Require password to wake this computer from sleep or screen saver to have your computer prompt you for your user name and password when it returns from sleep or after the screen saver has been activated.
   • Check the box next to Disable automatic login to prevent your computer from automatically logging you in when you start it.
   • Check the box next to Require password to unlock each System Preferences pane to prevent changes to your System Preferences without the Administrator Account password.
   • Check the box next to Use secure virtual memory to encrypt the temporary files that store your passwords, making them unreadable if your system is compromised.

UMASS-SECURE1X is a more secure, convenient, and faster way to connect to the campus wireless network. To connect, you must first configure supplicant software built into your operating system. Connect to UMASS-SECURE1X

If you encounter problems, submit an online Help Request.
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Contact the OIT Help Desk at 545-9400.