Apple is restricting full disk access permissions on macOS to reduce security risks posed by AI agents. The company will add new controls requiring explicit user action before any application can receive this privilege.
Full disk access was originally designed to allow backup applications to function properly, but Apple says some developers are exploiting it in ways that expose sensitive data. By requiring users to actively grant this permission, Apple aims to prevent unauthorized applications—particularly AI-powered ones—from accessing sensitive files without user knowledge.
This change represents Apple's broader effort to tighten privacy and security controls as AI tools become more prevalent and capable. The move should help users maintain better control over which applications can access their entire file systems.