MacBook® All-in-One For Dummies®

Chapter 7. Common-Sense Laptop Security

In This Chapter

• Keeping your MacBook off-limits to prying eyes and hands

• Using a tracking application to monitor your MacBook

Throughout this minibook, I show you how you can easily share information and files with others — all the while keeping your private files away from prying eyes, safe in your Home folder.

But, good reader, it's time to recognize the unfortunate fact that many Mac owners put themselves at risk of identity theft (or loss of their MacBook). Unless you exercise common sense while using your MacBook, you could be the victim, waving goodbye to your personal and financial information.

In this security-conscious chapter, I discuss how to keep your MacBook safe ...and even how to locate and monitor it remotely in case it is lost or stolen!

MacBook Security 101

Of course, your MacBook is a high-dollar (and highly portable) electronic device, making it a prime target for theft. Don't forget, however, that with a few simple steps, you can also secure the data on your MacBook — both the data displayed on your screen and the information stored in your laptop's hard drive!

In this section, I mention my favorite common-sense MacBook security tips — and yes, I follow every single one of these recommendations with my own MacBook Pro. (Security is King when it comes to my computers!)

Mark your MacBook

Put your brand on your laptop! Whether you do this using an engraving tool on the bottom of the machine (my personal favorite) or a permanent metal ...