Dont respond to ICMP ping network requests (Firewall in stealth mode)

Normally every computer in a network response to a ping request. This is often used to know if a computer or server is reachable. Many attacks start with a network scan: try to ping every IP address in the network, to know on which IP address a computer is available. Normally there should be no reason to respond to ping requests.

How to fix it

macOS 13 - 14

  1. Open “System Preferences”
  2. Go to “Network” > “Firewall”
  3. Click on “Options…”
  4. Enable “Enable stealth mode”

macOS 10.11 – 12

  1. Go to “System Preferences” > “Security & Privacy” > “Firewall”
  2. “Click on lock to make changes”
  3. Click on “Firewall options”
  4. Enable “Enable stealth mode”

Background information:

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Other security setting to check

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING TIP AND DISCLAIMER!

Keep in mind: not every security and privacy setting is suitable for everyone. Enhancing the security can lead in losing functionality and/or comfort.
Before making changes, please backup your Mac! Do not make too many change at once. After changing your Mac, check if your normal usage of your Mac has changed in a way which fits to you. Are your really willing to loose some functionality and/or comfort?
Most important is, that you learn and understand what are the advantages and disadvantages of the security settings and that you are aware about the capabilities and risks of your Mac configuration.

To skip this result message from your next security scan, you can deactivate this check. FAQ: How to deactivate a check.

CHECK RESULTS BY SIMPLEUMCHECK DO NOT COVER ALL ASPECTS OF POSSIBLE SECURITY CHECKS OR MAYBE INCORRECT OR INCOMPLETE. THE RESULTS ARE ONLY CLUES FOR RECOMMENDATIONS TO IMPROVE SECURITY AND PRIVACY ON THE MAC.

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