Apple says it will tighten how macOS handles Full Disk Access, TechCrunch reported on October 2, citing the risk that AI agents gain broad access to messages, mail and other personal data.
What was announced
According to TechCrunch's October 2 report, Apple said it will add new controls to the Mac's Full Disk Access permission. The permission was designed for backup tools; once granted, an app can reach a wide range of data on the computer, including messages, mail and browser history.
Apple said the risk will grow substantially as AI agents, meaning AI that acts on a user's behalf, become more capable and autonomous. Going forward it wants users to take a very explicit action before granting such access. Apple did not respond to TechCrunch's questions about how this will be implemented.
Background
The report points to two earlier stories. A columnist said Meta's AI, Muse, knew the content of his private messages without permission, which Meta disputes. Wired reported a flaw in ChatGPT's Mac app that could have exposed user data.
Apple's developer blog warns that some developers use Full Disk Access in ways that expose all data without users fully understanding it. The facts of each case come from press reporting, and the parties disagree on some points.
TAKEAWAY
What this means for your project
If your team uses AI tools on Macs, open System Settings, then Privacy & Security, and review which apps have Full Disk Access. Turn it off for apps you no longer use or cannot justify. Before installing a new AI tool, decide whether it should ever touch folders that hold customer lists or quotes.