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This free Mac tool lets me see which apps are quietly accessing the internet - and block them fast

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ZDNET's key takeaways

This app is perfect for controlling app internet access.

Firewally is free and installed from the Apple App Store.

This user-friendly app makes it easy to stay in control.

I'm always looking for ways to improve the security of my devices. Because my primary operating systems are Linux and MacOS, I don't have to worry all that much about security -- "all that much" being the operative phrase.

Here's one thing I always keep in mind: If a device is connected to a network, it's vulnerable, and it doesn't matter what OS is in charge. Therefore, I try to remain as diligent as possible about apps accessing the internet, my default firewall policies, and checking on data passing through apps.

Also: Google is training AI on even more of your data now, unless you opt out - here's how

To help enhance MacOS security, I've found a simple-to-use app that handles all that work: Firewally. This free app (installed from the Apple App Store on MacOS devices) allows me to view real-time internet traffic for each app, set the default firewall policy for apps, and enable or disable individual app access to the network.

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