Apple has announced it will change its macOS privacy settings to prevent third-party apps from accessing full disk, a move aimed at stopping potential misuse by AI agents like Meta’s Muse. The change comes after tech columnist Jason Aten reported receiving unsolicited notifications from Muse, referencing private messages he had assumed were off-limits.
Meta CTO David Singleton defended the app, stating that Muse only accesses messages if both full-disk access and the Messages connector are enabled. However, security expert Patrick Wardle questioned this, noting that with full-disk access, apps can read any file, including chats and browsing history.
The incident has sparked a debate about the responsibility of tech companies and users in managing AI access. While apps like Muse might offer convenience, they can also pose significant risks if mishandled. The change in settings will likely lead to more user scrutiny and better understanding of privacy settings, though some may argue it’s too little too late.
Aten’s case highlights the fine line between utility and abuse, and as AI becomes more integrated, so too does the challenge of maintaining privacy and control.
