#1. Keeping track of all 3rd Party Software installed on Mac OS X is extremely important. I have noticed many users installing applications and simply forgetting them. Some users even believe that Apple’s Software Updates take care of 3rd Party Apps.

If a user tends to install applications and forget to update. It can cause an issue with security on the system. It has been well documented in recent months that applications such as Firefox, Adobe Flash and Adobe Acrobat have been hit with some serious vulnerabilities. Keeping track of installed 3rd Party Applications is extremely important.

If an application has been installed and forgotten. It would be best in my opinion to simply uninstall it. I would also suggest using a tool such as CNET’s TechTracker. It is a simple way to keep track of any applications that need to be updated on your system.

#2. I would also suggest creating two user accounts. One as the Administrator and the other as the Standard User. Do not run as the Admin for day to day use. Use the Standard User Account.

#3. Make sure applications installed are from a trusted source.

#4. Only run essential services. If you do not need to use Apple File Sharing or Remote Desktop Connection. Then turn them off.

#5. When visiting sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Be cautious of what links you click. Just because you are on a Mac. Doesn’t mean you cannot be tricked into clicking a malicious link.

Example: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4qbLKy32rI via @sophoslabs

A few good links to learn a bit more about Mac Security I recommend are the following:

Sophos Mac Security Hub: http://www.sophos.com/security/mac-security-hub.html

Secure Mac: http://www.securemac.com/

The Mac Security Blog: http://blog.intego.com/