macOS
New Mac: Privacy Settings to Change First
macOS is one of the more private setups out of the box. These steps close the remaining gaps and turn on real encryption.
The Settings to Change
1
Turn on FileVaultSystem Settings → Privacy & Security → FileVault → on. Encrypts the whole disk so a stolen Mac cannot be read.
2
Stop analyticsSystem Settings → Privacy & Security → Analytics & Improvements → turn off Share Mac Analytics and Improve Siri & Dictation.
3
Turn off Apple ad targetingSystem Settings → Privacy & Security → Apple Advertising → off.
4
Fix locationPrivacy & Security → Location Services → System Services → turn off Significant Locations; review per app.
5
Quiet Spotlight suggestionsSystem Settings → Spotlight → turn off Siri Suggestions so searches are not sent to Apple.
6
Lock down SafariSafari → Settings → Privacy: Prevent cross-site tracking and Hide IP address; set DuckDuckGo as the search engine.
7
Review app permissionsPrivacy & Security → Camera, Microphone, and Screen Recording: remove anything you do not recognize.
8
Turn on Advanced Data ProtectionApple ID → iCloud → Advanced Data Protection for end-to-end encrypted backups.
Common Questions
Does FileVault slow the Mac down?
No noticeable difference on any modern Mac. Leave it on; it is the single most important setting here.
Will Hide IP address break websites?
Rarely. If a specific site misbehaves you can turn it off for that site only.
Is iCloud safe without Advanced Data Protection?
It is encrypted, but Apple holds the keys. Advanced Data Protection means only you do.
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