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How to Secure macOS Devices Used by Children or Seniors

Issue Description 

Children and seniors are often targeted by scams and deceptive pop-ups. 

Common Causes 

  • Lack of scam awareness 
  • Admin privileges on daily-use accounts 
  • Unsafe browsing habits 

Step-by-Step Solution 

Step 1: Use Standard User Accounts 

  • System Settings → Users & Groups 
  • Set daily account as Standard, not Admin 

 

Step 2: Enable Screen Time Restrictions 

  • System Settings → Screen Time 
  • Enable app, website, and content restrictions 

 

Step 3: Lock Down Browsers 

  • Use Safari 
  • Enable fraud warnings 
  • Disable notifications from websites 

 

Step 4: Enable Automatic Updates 

  • Ensure macOS and security updates install automatically 

Explore Further 

  • Set up remote assistance with trusted family member 

Prevention & Best Practices 

Teach users that pop-ups and phone calls are scams.