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Apple's MacOS is known to be one of the most secure operating systems out there. However, hackers and cybercriminals are starting to victimize iMacs and MacBooks more and more.
By accessing a computer's microphones and cameras, hackers are awarded an open window into your life. They can spy on you at any time, without warning, your personal and professional recording footage.
This information may be used in a variety of ways, but commonly, and in the context of an individual's private life are held, and released to the world if the request is not met.
Thankfully, with the just-announced new MacBook Air, Apple made it much tougher to hijack its microphone.
New T2 security chip
A recently published MacBook Air's T2 chip has revealed a new feature that protects its microphone from hijacking and spying.
With this feature, any T2-equipped laptop will disconnect the microphone whenever the lid is closed.
The hacks can not bypass it.
"This disconnect is implemented in hardware alone, and therefore prevents any software, even with root or kernel privileges in macOS, and even the software on the T2 chip, from engaging the microphone when the lid is closed," Apple wrote in the overview.
The MacBook Air's camera, it does not get the same hardware. Makes sense to me.
Other T2 security features:
Other security features detailed in the paper include the following:
Security Enclave – a coprocessor on the T2 that is dedicated to security functions. This protects the keys for FireVault and secure booting and it also processes Touch ID fingerprint data.
Encryption The T2 chip has a built-in dedicated engine used for AES encryption. Not only does this make it more efficient, it also prevents software and firmware from reading the keys directly.
Secure Boot – The booting process of a T2-equipped MacBook is also secured by the chip by verifying each stage of the startup process.
Touch ID – Like the MacBook Pro, the new MacBook Air is now protected with Touch ID. Touch ID can be used for logins and authorize purchases from the iTunes Store, App Store and Apple Books, and Apple Pay.
Apple's full T2 Security Chip overview.
How are you using your MacBook Air?
Although the chip can not prevent hackers from hijacking your MacBook Air's microphone while the lid is closed, it's still vulnerable to software hacks while you're still actively using it.
To stop software hijacking, you can try a program like Oversight.
Oversight is a free monitoring program for the Mac that will protect your webcam or microphone against intrusions. With this tool, you can still monitor which applications you can use your microphones and cameras, and prevent malicious actors from eavesdropping on your conversations or spying on your life.
When you apply to your microphones or camera, this tool will prompt you
The old-school way to protect your privacy
Webcam hacking is a real threat facing computer users every day.
Believe me, you do not want hackers taking off your webcam and watching your every move. That's creepy!
A webcam cover is the easiest way to prevent your webcam from being used to spy on you. Simply slide it over the camera and it's all set.
You're going to love this one! Kim Komando Show logo printed on it. Just like Kim Keeping you up to date, safe, too. The best part, there is no sticky residue on your computer and it comes with a cleaning pad.
You can get your very own Kim Komando Show webcam cover for just $ 6.95 from the Komando Shop. Simply click here and your webcam will be protected from hackers in style.
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iPhones, Macs and iPads vulnerable to the 'Ping of Death' flaw
We all know our devices to be able to get to know each other. Kevin Backhouse recently discovered for Apple devices. This hack allows you to completely crash your device just by being connected to the same Wi-Fi. I'll show you how.
Tap or click to learn more about this hack and how to protect yourself.
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