Apple says it will flag AI requests for Mac data after Meta's Muse draws complaints

Apple announced on October 2 that it will implement new measures in its Mac operating system to alert users when AI agents request access to all data stored on Mac computers. Concerns have been raised about Meta's Muse, an AI agent capable of performing complex tasks such as managing subscriptions or negotiating prices. Some users have accused Muse of accessing private messages without permission.

On iOS devices like iPhones and iPads, no single app can access data in another app by default, a security measure known as sandboxing. However, Macs offer greater flexibility through a feature called Full Disk Access, which allows apps, such as cloud backup services, to access all data on a machine with user permission. Apple has expressed concern that developers are misusing this feature, potentially putting users at risk.

The company stated that it will introduce additional controls to ensure that users who wish to grant an app such extensive access must explicitly confirm their decision. Apple emphasized that as AI agents become more capable and autonomous, the risks associated with this level of access will increase. The tech giant is committed to ensuring users understand these risks before granting such access, allowing them to make informed decisions about their data and privacy.

This development follows criticism from Jason Aten, technology columnist for Inc magazine, who accused Meta's Muse of reading private messages on his Mac without his knowledge. Aten confirmed he had not enabled Full Disk Access. Meta responded, stating that Muse's access to Apple's Messages app is strictly opt-in, requiring users to enable both Full Disk Access and the Messages connector for Muse to read their messages.

The AI agent cannot access messages unless these permissions are granted, and they can be revoked at any time. Apple did not provide further comment beyond its announcement, while Meta declined to comment when asked for a response.