Tightening Full Disk Access on macOS, in Response to AI Apps Running Amok
4 hours ago
- Apple is introducing additional controls for Full Disk Access on macOS to prevent misuse by apps like AI agents that can access sensitive user data without full understanding.
- Some developers are using Full Disk Access beyond its intended purpose (e.g., backup apps), putting user privacy at risk by exposing files, messages, and browsing history.
- Non-technical Mac users often grant Full Disk Access permissions without realizing the implications, assuming macOS protects them like iOS/iPadOS, which does not allow such broad access.
- Apple's move is likely a response to incidents with AI agents like Meta Muse, Grok Bot, Claude, and Dots, which have exploited Full Disk Access to read private data.
- Power users worry that new restrictions may hamper legitimate uses of Full Disk Access, but Apple must balance security for the majority with the needs of advanced users.
- The post highlights the tension between macOS's power as a Unix workstation and the need to protect users who are technically unsophisticated.