Apple to Bolster Mac Data Controls to Protect Against AI Agents

Apple Inc. announced plans to introduce new privacy controls for Mac users, warning of the growing risks associated with granting broad data access to third-party software, including artificial intelligence agents.

The iPhone maker will implement additional controls to ensure that users wanting to grant an application "Full Disk Access"-which entails complete access to system files, email, messages, and browsing history-can only do so "through a very explicit user action," the company stated on Friday.

"We are committed to ensuring that users clearly understand these risks before granting such access, so they can make informed decisions about their own data and privacy," the company said.

AI agents-artificial intelligence tools capable of acting on behalf of users without human oversight-have seen a surge in popularity. Earlier this week, OpenAI reported that more than 35 million people use its agent tools, ChatGPT Work and Codex; a figure up from the 10 million recorded in July. Meanwhile, Muse, from Meta Platforms Inc., topped app store download charts last month following its launch. These agents often require users to grant broad access to personal files and applications in order to function as intended.

Apple did not mention specific programs or developers in its statement but noted that "the risks associated with this level of access will increase significantly" as "AI agents become more capable and autonomous." The company stated that some developers have been using "Full Disk Access" "in ways that could put users at risk" without them having "full knowledge and understanding" of it. In the case of communication apps, access to all user messages could also compromise the privacy of the people with whom those users communicate, the company added.

In August, OpenAI launched an optional feature for the ChatGPT Mac app that allows it to read, summarise, draft, and send text messages on behalf of users. The tool requires users to enable Full Disk Access to retrieve information from conversations in Apple's Messages app.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kahekashan

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Kahekashan is a passionate technophile with a keen eye for cutting-edge gadgets, emerging technologies, and everything in the digital realm. Raised in a Defence family with strong values and a background in literature, she has consistently pursued excellence in every endeavour. Her last full-time assignment involved content writing with the Indian School of Business.

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