Apple Tightens Security Features In MacOS Ventura, Prevents Malicious Accessories From Connecting To Devices

Apple tightens security features in macOS Ventura, (photo: doc. unsplash)

JAKARTA - Apple has tightened security features in macOS Ventura, where USB-C and Thunderbolt accessories connected to ports on a Mac will require user permission before the accessories can communicate with the operating system.

Based on an explanation from Apple's release notes, it appears that this feature is intended to protect the company's newer laptop devices or running the M1 and M2 chips from potentially harmful accessories.

That security feature is enabled by default and will prompt the user to approve the USB-C accessory before it can connect to the operating system, an on-screen pop-up will appear asking the user for permission.

The company says this doesn't apply to power adapters, standalone displays, and connections to approved hubs, meaning the device can still charge even if the user disapproves of the accessory.

Meanwhile, accessories that are already connected will work automatically when updating to the macOS Ventura‌ software. macOS Ventura is available to developers right now, with a public beta planned for a July release.

The move to restrict USB-C devices by default is a precaution against a growing threat, posing a risk to Apple users.

The macOS Ventura feature is also nearly identical to the USB Restricted Mode that Apple introduced in iOS 12, preventing unauthorized accessories and cables from accessing data on iPhone and iPad without the owner's permission.

The following is a complete list of release notes regarding Apple's new security features on macOS, as obtained from The Verge, quoted from TechCrunch, Wednesday, June 8.

"On portable Mac computers with Apple silicon, new USB and Thunderbolt accessories require user approval before the accessory can communicate with macOS for connections that plug directly into the USB-C port. This does not apply to power adapters, standalone displays, or connections to approved hubs. The device can still charge if you select Don't Allow.

You can change the security configuration in System Settings > Security and Privacy > Security. The initial configuration is Ask for new accessories. Configure Accessibility Switch Control sets the policy to always allow the use of accessories. Approved devices can connect to a locked Mac for up to three days.

Accessories attached during a software update from a previous macOS version are automatically allowed. New accessories installed before rebooting the Mac may count and work, but won't be remembered until they're connected to an unlocked Mac and explicitly approved."