Here's how to set up the new privacy features in macOS Monterey

macOS Monterey is already with us and whenever there is a new operating system, some of its qualities and functions are done in a slightly different way than they were in other operating systems. Through this post we are going to try to explain to you how to configure the new privacy features.

Microphone access when recording on macOS Monterey

For years, Macs have shown when the camera is in use via a green indicator light that is physically located next to the camera. With the release of macOS Monterey, Apple now shows a software indicator  when accessing the microphone.

Through the Control Center, a new software indicator increases the camera's indicator light by showing you each time an app has access to the microphone. To access this new feature, look at the Control Center icon in the upper right corner of the Mac menu bar. If an application is using the microphone, there will be an orange dot next to the Control Center icon. We click on the Control Center icon to see the name of the application that accesses the microphone.

iCloud Private or Apple VPN

Apple describes it as “a service that allows you to connect to practically any network and navigate with Safari in a even more secure and private ”. It works by encrypting your internet traffic as it leaves your device, so that no one can intercept and read it. It is then sent through two separate internet relays, preventing anyone from using your IP address, location, and browsing activity to create a detailed profile about you.

iCloud Private Relay is available in the public version of macOS Monterey, but is disabled by default because Apple says it's still in "beta". It can be enabled.

Hidden email

This function allows cre-create random and unique email addresses They are forwarded to your personal inbox, allowing you to send and receive emails without having to share your real email address with anyone.

To use this functionality, first make sure it is enabled in the System Preferences application. Clicking on "Apple ID" and looking for the option "Hide my email" in the list of functions. This is also where you can find all the previous addresses created with this function. From there, when you are asked to provide a website with your email address, such as to sign up for a service or make a purchase, Safari will automatically ask you to use 'Hide my email'.

More private email

We continue with the privacy functions emphasizing email, which is where Apple's most have "put the batteries" on privacy issues. It is not surprising after the many problems they had for this application. But right now we can say that Apple has put all the meat on the grill and wants them to past situations are not repeated. 

The function that we are talking about now, aims to prevent the personal data of the users of the Mail App, from having their data compromised. To do this, the new function prevents senders from using invisible pixels to collect information about the user. The new feature helps users prevent senders from knowing when they open an email and masks their IP address so that it cannot be linked to other online activity or used to determine their location.

You can enable or disable this feature In the Mail application on the Mac, by clicking "Mail" in the upper left corner of the menu bar, selecting "Preferences" and then "Privacy."

As you can see, they are a very good collection of privacy protection and assurance measures, which today is one of the most worrying topics for private users when using technological devices. Concern that has increased as work from home increased due to the pandemic.