Apple says it is adding additional controls around "Full Disk Access" on macOS as AI agents have increased "the risks associated with this level of access" (Sarah Perez/TechCrunch)

Apple is introducing additional controls around the "Full Disk Access" setting on macOS due to increased risks associated with AI agents requesting this level of access. The setting, designed to allow backup apps to function properly, gives an app permission to access files, mail, messages, and browsing history.

According to Apple, some developers are using Full Disk Access in ways that could put users at risk by exposing their personal content without users' full knowledge and understanding. This move comes after concerns were raised about the security and trust users have in desktop-based AI, which can control things on their systems and read their files and messages.

A journalist recently claimed that Meta's Muse app on Mac read their private messages, which Meta disputed. Apple's new controls aim to ensure users can only grant an app this level of access with explicit permission. The company will provide more details on the changes, but for now, it emphasizes the importance of users understanding what it means to give an app such "extraordinary" access to their Mac.

Brief written by urgent.news from Techmeme, 9to5Mac, TechCrunch — 3 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.