Overview
- Apple announced on October 2 that it will add new controls to Full Disk Access so granting the permission requires very explicit user action.
- Full Disk Access lets an app bypass many macOS privacy protections and can expose files, Mail, Messages and browsing history, a capability Apple says was intended mainly for backup and system tools.
- The change follows high‑profile reports and security research, including claims about Meta’s Muse reading a journalist’s Messages and published proof‑of‑concept flaws in Mac agent apps that could leak tokens or data.
- Apple has not said when the controls will roll out, which macOS version will include them, whether existing app permissions will be revoked, or if Apple’s own assistants will face the same standard.
- Developers warn the shift could disrupt legitimate backup and utility workflows and may favor Apple’s integrated services, so expect struggles over exceptions, clearer consent UX, activity visibility, and tightened least‑privilege practices.