Apple has announced it will introduce new security controls for Mac computers to restrict how applications access sensitive personal data. The company is rolling out updated rules around "full disk access"—a permission that gives apps the ability to see everything stored on a Mac, including files, emails, messages, and browsing history. Under the new system, apps will require "very explicit user action" from owners before gaining this sweeping level of access.
The announcement comes after a recent incident in which a journalist discovered that Meta's Muse AI chatbot could read his private messages on his Mac, even though he had not directly authorised the app to do so. Meta explained that users must separately enable both full disk access and a "Messages connector" for the chatbot to function this way, but the episode highlighted how easily such permissions can be granted without full user awareness.
Apple states that some developers are using full disk access in ways that create privacy risks, exposing personal information "without users' full knowledge and understanding." The company notes that as AI agents become more capable and operate more independently, the risks tied to unrestricted system access will increase substantially. Full disk access was originally designed to help backup and file management apps work properly on Mac by bypassing the normal privacy protections Apple builds into its operating system.
Why it matters
For Singapore and Hong Kong families, this is relevant because many households use Mac computers for work and study, and children may use shared devices or family accounts. When apps gain broad access to disk files, they can potentially read private school communications, financial records, or personal documents without obvious warnings.
For students, the issue is particularly relevant if they use AI chatbots or productivity tools on a family Mac. These tools might request permissions that seem innocent but actually grant access to sensitive files.
Schools should be aware that staff and students using AI-powered tools on Mac devices may inadvertently be granting excessive data access. The new Apple restrictions will make it harder for this to happen by accident, but only if users pay attention to permission requests.
What to do
- Check app permissions now: Mac users should review which apps currently have full disk access. Go to System Settings, search for "Full Disk Access," and remove apps that no longer need this permission.
- Watch for permission alerts: In coming months, Mac users will see clearer warnings when apps request full disk access. Read these carefully before agreeing, especially for AI tools.
- Educate children and staff: Families and schools should discuss why permission requests matter and encourage people to decline unnecessary access, even if an app suggests it needs such permission to function.