Being an Apple user, you would know that Apple has always been quite strict when it comes to installing third-party apps on your Mac. The inbuilt security feature of their system, the Gatekeeper, with the update of Mac OS Mojave has gotten even more stringent than before now, in keeping you within the bounds of Apple's App Store.
Although Gatekeeper's security restricts users to the use of apps only downloaded from App Store or identified developers, there are ways you can enjoy the programs of your choice even when they are not on Apple or Apple trusted platforms.
We firmly advised that the option may only be used by the advanced Mac users, though. Gatekeeper is Mac's security solution, and it is there for a purpose. There are genuine threats to your system when in use and it requires constant protection. When played with by inexperienced hands, it can make the system vulnerable to malware and data leak threats. Thus, before we go into the detailed guide to disabling the feature regarding third-party downloads, let us understand why it is essential.
About Gatekeeper and Its Importance
A Mac security feature, Gatekeeper was first introduced with OS X Mountain Lion back in 2012. It keeps a check on all the malware and other threats emanating from misbehaving apps downloaded from the Internet. Initially, this feature offered three settings for downloadable content. This included, anywhere (the most lenient option), App Store and identified developers (a secure setting), and the App Store only (the highest security feature).
More recently, with the macOS Sierra update specifically, Apple has limited the settings to the last two options. This was done in keeping view of the growing number of threats and high numbers of reported security breach incidents in the past.
While a good measure, it restricted many of the power Mac users in their experience of operating on the system. Unknown to many though, not all is lost. Mac sports a hidden pathway for such advanced users to change Gatekeeper's settings and allow third-party apps to operate on their macOS Mojave. Let's take a look.
Allow Applications Downloaded From Anywhere
The option for allowing applications downloaded from anywhere is hidden by default in Gatekeeper on macOS Mojave, and can be changed if required:
- Open Terminal. Go to Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
- Paste the following command:
sudo spctl --master-disable, then press RETURN. - Enter your system password.
- Open Security & Privacy. Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy.
- Go to the General tab. You will find the Anywhere option.
Now you can open and launch apps from anywhere on macOS Mojave. Please note that this change will turn off Gatekeeper, and it is not suitable for most Mac users. Allowing applications from anywhere, such as unidentified developers, can make you Mac susceptible to some malware and junk software, which should be avoided by all its users. Unless you can deal with the risks above mentioned, please use this feature carefully.
How to Judge A Third Party App
There are multiple reasons an app developer may decide against putting the app on known application platforms, such as Apple's App Store, and Android's Play Store. Not all of those reasons are evil either. Some app developers may genuinely find the independent platforms more viable to them.
While trusted application stores like those of Apple and Android have strict guidelines to what can be developed, not all of those guidelines concern security. For example, any utility that interacts with system files is an outright rejection at the App Store. A developer may decide against putting up the app on more known platforms due to financial reasons. An app displayed on the App Store would be charged a display fee which a developer might not be willing to pay. Keeping all the returns on the product you have spent your time and effort on, is after all, nothing unethical.
Thus, at times when you want to use a particular app that is not available on your system's trusted app provider, the responsibility of making judgments fall on you. Do not worry. Here are some ways you can gauge whether an app is safe for you to download and use or not:
- The developer
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The fact that who has developed the app says a lot about the app itself. You can go and have a look at the developer's website. Check out the other apps they have developed. You can even get a sense of their authenticity by looking at their About us page. This will give you a comprehensive background into the makers, and in the end, you may have to make a gut call.
- Check reviews
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Try to search for reviews of other people who have used the app you are planning to download. Not only would you find out numerous things about the practical operability of the app, but will also discover security warnings, if there are any regarding the app.
- Privacy Policy
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You can judge an app by looking at the ways it pledges to protect your data or use it. More importantly, what data will it use? If you find anything unusual that the app would be collecting from your system once downloaded, especially when there is no apparent reason to obtain information, you should probably avoid that app.
- Avoid unnecessary hoarding
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Avoid keeping third-party apps you do not use anymore on your Mac for long periods of time. Remove them and reset your Gatekeeper settings once your purpose is achieved. This will prevent unnecessary transmission of your valuable data to these apps.
While it takes a little more effort to decide on the trustworthiness of an app, it is usually about your gut feeling. Moreover, any app whose developer you are already aware of, or comes recommended from your circles can be used without any worry.
Returning to Default Gatekeeper Security
Once you are done using an app (You will never use it anymore), you can always revert to the default strict Gatekeeper settings. This will allow only the applications downloaded from the Mac App Store or identified developers on the system.
- Open Terminal. Go to Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
- Paste the following command:
sudo spctl --master-enable, then press RETURN. - Enter your system password.
This will make macOS Gatekeeper return to a strict default state that prevents random applications from starting.
Each Mac user should leave this feature enabled in the default state. If you are not able to decide whether the apps are legitimate or not, you definitely not change this option.
Still want to allow apps downloaded from anywhere without any worries? Why not try Antivirus One? Antivirus One prevents viruses from infecting your Mac. Its basic scan will keep your Mac safe from all significant security threats to your system.
