Skip to main content
X

Send us a Topic or Tip

Have a suggestion for the blog? Perhaps a topic you'd like us to write about? If so, we'd love to hear from you! Fancy yourself a writer and have a tech tip, handy computer trick, or "how to" to share? Let us know what you'd like to contribute!

Thanks for reaching out!

5 Mac Security Tips for Coworking Spaces

The coworking trend has really taken off over the past decade. And once society returns to normal, this industry is ready for a massive boom. Millions of people will be shifting from office-based positions and transitioning into remote working setups. Will you be prepared to do so in a secure capacity?

Security Concerns for Shared Working Spaces

As shared working spaces become more common, we’re learning more about how they function and what we should know. In terms of security, there are two categories:

  • Internet and cybersecurity. The first category refers to network security and the importance of protecting yourself from malicious hackers, viruses, and other forms of digital compromise.
  • Physical security. The second category deals with physical security – meaning real-world security control, who comes and goes, what level of access members have, and how members are verified, vetted, and surveyed.

The good news is that most top coworking spaces have both of these aspects figured out. Novel Coworking in Houston is a perfect example. Their locations come backed with incredibly strong security protocols – both cyber and physical – that are designed to proactively protect members and keep shared workspaces even safer than the average home office.

There are, however, other coworking spaces that don’t take security as seriously. And in these cases, you have to take extra precautions to ensure you’re safe.

5 Mac Security Tips

For Mac users, in particular, there are a few proactive steps you can take to keep yourself safe when working in a shared workspace.

1. Choose a Coworking Space That Takes Security Seriously

Coworking spaces should be on the cutting edge when it comes to securing internal networks and protecting user data from cyber-attacks and other compromises. This should include:

  • Double-authentication. It’s helpful if your coworking space has multiple authentication layers – like one password to access the physical space and another to access the network.
  • Restrictions. Access to the network should be restricted to current members only (and regularly synced to ensure no unauthorized individuals have access).
  • Security help. It’s nice if the coworking space has a security professional on staff – or at least someone who has a deep understanding of security-related matters. This ensures small issues don’t turn into widespread problems.

2. Use Biometric Login

biometric fingerprint

Set your Mac up to require biometric logins. This means enabling the fingerprint-scanning feature, if available on your model.

In the future, the belief is that Apple will integrate its Face ID technology into all MacBook models. According to patent records, this Face ID will do two things: (1) avoid timing-out into sleep mode when the user is in front of the computer, and (2) automatically wake and log you in when you approach it.

More features like these will continue to make Macs more secure on the physical front.

3. Shorten the Automatic Lockout Period

It might be annoying to have to log back in any time you walk away from your computer and return, but it’s the best way to keep your computer secure. For optimal security, shorten the automatic lockout period to just a couple of minutes.

4. Regularly Update Your Mac

Updates are annoying – we get it – but they’re essential to keeping your computer safe and secure. Regularly update your Mac so that you’re getting all of the important security features and protections.

The best way to stay updated is to enable automatic updates in the middle of the night. This ensures your forgetfulness or stubbornness never compromises the underlying security of your Mac, regardless of whether you’re hunkered down working from home (WFH) or working in a shared office space.

5. Use a VPN

Tunnel Bear's namesake mascot

Virtual private networks (VPNs) add extra encryption to your browsing and further complicate things for hackers. It essentially makes it impossible for attackers to see what you’re doing since you’re running your network connection through another service provider.

Some of the top VPNs for Mac include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Private Internet Access, and CyberGhost.

Take the Plunge

Coworking momentum has been building for a few years. This sudden shift to remote working is about to pour gasoline over an already blazing fire. And if you’re going to make a move, be sure to prioritize security from the very start.

Anna Johansson
the authorAnna Johansson
Contributing Author
Anna is a freelance writer, researcher, and business consultant. A columnist for Entrepreneur.com, Earth911.com, and more, Anna specializes in entrepreneurship, technology, and social media trends.
Be Sociable, Share This Post!

Leave a Reply

1 Comment

  • Good to know that I’m pretty on track with keeping my Mac secure I do all these things, even use Surfshark VPN to improve its security. The only thing that’s left is to update it regularly (I know it’s not good that I don’t do it often, but it’s pretty annoying to wait till the computer updates, and I always forget to start the update when don’t need my laptop).