migformac news

Tips, tricks and recommendations: May 2019

In this issue:

  • In Focus: Computer Security Revisited
  • App of the Month: Apple's "Files"
  • Mac Tech Tip: How to use keyboard shortcuts
  • iPhone/iPad Tech Tip: How to close all tabs in Safari
  • About migformac
There's not a day that goes by that I don't have a conversation with clients about online security and privacy. Many of us have been fooled by alarming messages from Apple or other companies that turn out to be bogus...or we call an unknown number flashing on our desktop because a pop-up window says the Mac has been hacked, and a stranger takes remote control of our computer...or we open email attachments that we aren't expecting from a friend, or worse, from a stranger and regret it.


I strongly recommend that you err on the side of caution regarding online communication! Think before you click! NEVER call numbers that appear on your computer screen! Delete suspicious emails before opening them!


Below are a few tips to keep you safe in your virtual world. Don't forget to back up your data on iCloud and/or an external hard drive!

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Though not the snazziest of apps in the App Store, the Files app is awesome because you can view and edit docs that you have created and saved on your Mac. Files allows you to sync files that are on your Desktop and in your Documents folder on an iMac or Mac laptop to iOS devices. "Files" comes pre-installed on all Apple mobile devices (blue manilla folder icon above).


First, you have to turn on iCloud Drive. On a Mac, go to System Preferences--iCloud--iCloud Drive--Options. Check the 1st box: Desktop and Documents Folders. On an iPhone/iPad, go to Settings--your name at top--iCloud--iCloud Drive. Once these are both turned on, then you will be able to view and open any files that have been saved to your Desktop or Documents folder directly from your mobile device. Thankfully, it does not download all files to your mobile device, just the ones you select. Once you touch the file, it will begin downloading to your iPhone or iPad. Great way to access and edit important documents when you are not at home!

There are many repetitive tasks can be accomplished much faster with keyboard shortcuts. Actions like saving a document, copying and pasting text, and closing an application can all be done with a keyboard shortcut. For example, I never go up to the main menu to quit an application; I use COMMAND-Q. Another good one is to close open windows; that's COMMAND-W. Want to copy and paste text? COMMAND-C is for copy and COMMAND-V is paste (strategically placed right next to the C key).


And now for the very best keyboard shortcut!! COMMAND-Z is to undo. Saves me from my mistakes every time!


Gary Rosenzweig, from MacMost, has a helpful, downloadable Keyboard Shortcuts for Mojave handout posted on his website.

Tired of closing tabs in Safari on your iPad, one at a time? That little "x" is barely visible, and if you don't manage your tabs, you can have hundreds on your device! Here's how you can clear them all at the same time:


  1. Open Safari on your Apple mobile device.
  2. Look for the "blue square on top of another blue square" icon on the bottom toolbar. Press and hold that icon.
  3. Choose "Close All Tabs" which is the top option. (See image below)

Voila! All tabs are gone!
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About migformac

About migformac

I typically come to clients' homes and offices to help with anything Mac related: iMacs, Mac laptops, iPhones, iPads, iPods, iCloud syncing, Photos organization, as well as Mac, Microsoft and Google applications. I also assist with wireless printers and other peripherals. I teach Apple technology classes to small and large groups and make Apple-related presentations to even larger groups.

Feel free to call or email me if you have questions: mig@migformac.com.

Durham, North Carolina mig@migformac.com 919-219-9563 migformac.com