Apple Tightens Full Disk Access on Mac Over Privacy Risks

Apple plans to add new controls around Full Disk Access in macOS after warning that some apps are using the permission in ways that could expose large amounts of private user data, a move that should make it harder for apps to get one of the Mac’s most powerful permissions without users clearly understanding what they’re sharing.

Full Disk Access lets an app reach data that would normally be protected by Apple’s privacy controls. It’s commonly used by backup software, which may need broad access to files across a Mac to create complete backups.

In an Apple Developer announcement published October 2, Apple said the permission can expose “everything on their systems,” including files, email, messages and browsing history. The company said some developers are using Full Disk Access in ways that could put users at risk, or that provide access without users fully understanding the consequences.

Apple also warned that communication apps with Full Disk Access could affect the privacy of other people a Mac user is communicating with.

Going forward, Apple says the new controls are meant to ensure that granting Full Disk Access requires “very explicit user action.” The company didn’t share details on exactly how the new approval process will work or when the changes will arrive.

Apple is also pointing to growing privacy concerns around AI software. The company said more capable and autonomous AI agents could make broad system access increasingly risky, since those apps may be able to act on sensitive information with less direct user involvement.

A current example is Meta’s Muse for Mac, an AI agent designed to work across files, notes, calendars, and email on the desktop. Muse includes an optional Full Disk Access toggle so it can reach more of a user’s data, with Meta requiring approval prompts before sensitive actions like deleting files or sending messages. It is the exact kind of app Apple is describing: helpful with broad access, and holding the keys to everything on the Mac once that toggle is flipped.

Backup apps will still need extensive access in some cases, but Apple appears to be preparing additional safeguards around how that permission is granted.

Apple hasn’t said when the new controls will arrive or what the new approval screen will look like, so nothing changes for Mac users yet. When they do land, granting Full Disk Access should require more deliberate steps than it does today. In the meantime, Mac users can review which apps hold the permission in System Settings under Privacy & Security, and revoke any that no longer need it. Those uneasy about AI features more broadly can also switch off Apple Intelligence entirely.