Application can't be opened because Apple cannot check it for malicious software
Ever received the "can't be opened because Apple cannot check it for malicious software" message on your Mac? This error stems from macOS's Gatekeeper, a security feature designed to protect users from malware by only allowing applications from verified sources.
It can be frustrating, especially when you're trying to install or open software that you trust. If you trust the app and know where it came from, you don't need to turn off Gatekeeper: try to open the app once, then go to System Settings > Privacy & Security and click Open Anyway. If you don't know where the app came from, don't override the warning.
What does it mean? "Can't be opened because Apple cannot check it for malicious software."
By default, macOS is configured to accept applications downloaded from the official App Store and those created by identified developers.
When you download an app from the internet, the browser or download tool assigns a specific attribute to the file. Gatekeeper then checks this attribute to confirm the app's developer ID certificate, ensuring that it comes from a recognized Apple developer and has not been tampered with.
If an application is self-signed or does not have the proper notarization, Gatekeeper will flag it as potentially harmful, leading to the annoying message.
Solved: Apple cannot check it for malicious software
So, as we touched on above, If you see the message Application can't be opened because Apple cannot check it for malicious software, it means that macOS's Gatekeeper is preventing the app from running due to security concerns.
One warning before you start: if an app's own instructions tell you to get around this message, for example by right-clicking the app and choosing Open or by pasting a command into Terminal, treat that as a red flag. It's a common trick in malware, especially in cracked or pirated apps.
Let's take a look at how to open an app you trust.
1. Open the app anyway from Privacy & Security
macOS lets you open an app it has blocked from Privacy & Security settings; here's how:
1. Try to open the app, then close the warning.
2. Open System Settings, click Privacy & Security, then scroll down and click Open Anyway.
3. When the warning appears again, click Open.
If you've used the old shortcut, Control-clicking the app and choosing Open, note that it no longer opens a blocked app from macOS Sequoia onward. You need to go through Privacy & Security instead.
It's worth remembering that while you're adjusting settings and overriding security features on your Mac, you should run some extra antivirus scans.
Investing in additional antivirus software can provide a more comprehensive defense.
Stay updated on macOS threats
For the latest macOS-specific threats, consider using CleanMyMac. Its Protection feature scans your Mac for malware and neutralizes the threats it finds. No app yet? Get your free CleanMyMac trial — all features are free for 7 days.
After installing CleanMyMac, select Protection to scan your Mac for keyloggers, viruses, and other threats.
Here's how to use it:
- Open CleanMyMac.
- Select Protection and click Scan.
- If malware has been detected, follow the steps on the screen to remove it.
2. Reinstall the app
Another quick way to overcome the can't be opened because Apple cannot check it for malicious software notifications is to simply redownload the app, especially if it's from a trusted source (App Store). The app's digital signature may be invalid or corrupted.
So, uninstall the app and download it again. Not sure how to delete apps? Here's a complete guide on app removal.
In conclusion, the "App can't be opened because Apple cannot check it for malicious software" error can be frustrating, but if you trust the app, you can open it without turning off Gatekeeper.
Whichever route you take, make sure the app comes from a source you trust.
Remember, these security features are in place to protect your Mac from potential threats. To maintain optimal performance and security, consider using tools like CleanMyMac to scan for malware regularly and remove unnecessary files. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can keep your Mac running smoothly while safely managing your applications.