Security queries in macOS 15: A bit like Vista
Apple has once again increased the number of security prompts with its new macOS. However, critics believe that this does not improve security – on the contrary
macOS-Nagscreen – here TeamViewer: This is now coming every month.
(Image: TeamViewer)
Users who have installed the new macOS 15 alias Sequoia on their Mac are greeted with numerous security questions when they first start it up. This is nothing new: Apple has been trying to increase users' security awareness in this way for several versions of the operating system. For example, the system warns users before an app accesses the download folder, a USB device accesses the Mac or a video chat application accesses the camera. However, Apple has further increased the number of these prompts – also known as "nag screens". And security experts fear that this will lead to less security rather than more because users will then tend not to take a closer look before clicking on "Approve".
Local network access requires approval
Some users are already reminded of Windows Vista, which Apple made fun of in an advertising campaign 17 years ago. In it, the "PC" has to have every action, no matter how small, approved by a security guard. Moreover, many of the prompts are by no means self-explanatory and, if a user rejects them, can be just as problematic as allowing them without thinking. This includes a new prompt for network access that was introduced with macOS 15.
If an app – for example a media library app such as Plex – is to communicate with other machines in the local network, it must now be allowed to "find devices in the local network". This prompt was previously only available on the iPhone, and even there it was rarely understandable. Meanwhile, Apple has at least given developers the option of using a new setup window to gain faster (and above all secure) access – for apps that are supposed to control devices in the local network, for example.
Requests every month
Probably the most annoying nag screen in macOS 15, however, is the approval of programs that want to have screen access. This affects countless apps from Microsoft Teams to Zoom and screenshot tools. Requests are now being made on a monthly basis, after Apple previously wanted to ask on a weekly basis. As there is no way for developers to prevent this, there are now even widespread hacks to circumvent the security function. In principle, Apple is of course right: recording the screen (which is even linked to the system sound – why exactly, only the manufacturer knows) is highly sensitive. However, it is normal for screenshot tools to require this – just like video conferencing apps, with which you can share the screen. A better solution here would be to prohibit apps from accessing – in the background – instead of constantly asking for permission.
macOS 15 has also tightened the thumbscrews in other areas: apps without notarization are now much more inconvenient to open than before.
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