Sometimes, this notification will pop up when opening an application on your Mac. The ‘MacOS cannot verify this app is free from malware’ error means that Apple’s application authentication algorithm thinks the app is not safe to download and open. While this is sometimes credible, this error sometimes pops up when downloading legitimate apps. Continue reading to learn what to do when you see this error.
Why Am I Seeing This Error On My Mac?
This error will pop up if Apple’s authentication program runs and decides that the application you are attempting to open is ‘unsafe’. Mac has a program called ‘Gatekeeper.’ This program will authenticate the app’s developer to ensure that the program is not malicious.
Apple has an extensive app verification program to examine all the apps you try to download onto your computer. They will determine whether or not the app is safe to use. If the developer cannot be verified, then Apple will display this error.
Some apps are determined unsafe- meaning that the app could download malware onto your device and put your protection at risk. When you try downloading these ‘bad’ apps, an error notification warns you against downloading. However, ‘Gatekeeper’ is not perfect. You might get this error even when you are downloading a legitimate app.
But Should I Still Try To Open The App If Apple Says It Isn’t Safe?
There are a few answers to this question. Honestly, you have to decide for yourself. Apple’s authentication services are helpful, but are not always 100% accurate. This answer will depend on how much you trust the developer.
When downloading apps, make sure to do your research. Some apps could be untrustworthy- meaning the program you are downloading is potentially unreliable.
You should be careful when downloading an unfamiliar program. But, if you trust the app publisher, feel free to download the app. One instance of this could be an app that your company suggests you download to help in your work. However, if you do not know the publisher, use caution when downloading.
How To Fix The ‘MacOS Cannot Verify That This App Is Free From Malware’ Error
Here are the steps you should follow to bypass this error on your Mac:
- Open the ‘Finder’ program on your Mac.
- Select the app that has the ‘MacOS cannot verify that this app is free from malware’ error.
- Control-click on this app so you can see the shortcut menu on your screen.
- Click ‘Open’ at the top of the menu. This will add the app with the error to the whitelist, ensuring you won’t see the error when you open the app.
Where Do You Go From Here? Protect Yourself From Harmful Malware With Agency
Here at Agency, we believe it is appropriate to whitelist apps on Gatekeeper if you have personal cybersecurity measures in place in case you install a malicious app. Today there are an overwhelming number of digital threats to you and your family, so it is essential to protect your personal information with personal cybersecurity software provided by Agency.
We have 24/7 managed cybersecurity security for individuals with an enterprise-grade personal cybersecurity solution. After downloading Agency, you won’t need to worry about malware on your personal devices.
