Of course, not all files like this are unsafe, but you should exercise caution when opening any such downloaded file. Scripts, web archives, and Java archives have the potential to cause harm to your system. In addition to apps, other types of files may not be safe. macOS checks the app before it opens the first time to be certain it hasn’t been modified since the developer shipped it.
If problems occur with an app, Apple can revoke its authorization. Identified developers are registered with Apple and can optionally upload their apps to Apple for a security check. If there’s ever a problem with an app, Apple removes it from the Mac App Store.Īpp Store and identified developers: Allows apps from the Mac App Store and apps from identified developers. All the developers of apps in the Mac App Store are identified by Apple, and each app is reviewed before it’s accepted.
Select the sources from which you’ll allow software to be installed:Īpp Store: Allows apps only from the Mac App Store. If the lock at the bottom left is locked, click it to unlock the preference pane. On your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, click Security & Privacy, then click General.
