Today, I had an interesting experience “hardening” my Macbook’s security by implementing Common Criteria. Basically, Common Criteria is an international standard for computer security. As implemented by Apple on OS X 10.5, it’s a small download and install (103K), followed by a series of system settings changes provided in a PDF file. Basically, I followed a series of steps which, among other things, changed the way logins happen, changed how the computer appeared on the network, password protected the BIOS, etc. It took about an hour, but I was left with a less “hackable” Mac. This type of process is not for everyone, but for security conscious computer users, this is the way to go.
