TroubleshootingFix

"App can't be opened" or "is damaged" on Mac: how to open it safely

Applies to macOS 15, 26 and 27Reviewed 2 November 2026Tested on macOS 27.21 min read

+I have this too

Careful: these warnings exist to stop malware. Only open apps you downloaded from the developer's own site or a source you trust. If you're not sure, delete it.

"Apple could not verify…" or "unidentified developer"

1. Double-click the app and click Done on the warning.
2. Open System Settings › Privacy & Security and scroll to Security.
3. Next to the message about the app, click Open Anyway. In the “Open?” dialog, click Open Anyway again and enter your password. The app opens straight away.
4. Open the app again and confirm. macOS remembers your choice for that app.

"…is damaged and can't be opened"

This usually means the download is incomplete or the app's signature is broken, not that it's literally damaged.

1. Delete it and download it again from the developer's own website.
2. Check the developer's site for a version made for your macOS version.
3. If you're certain the app is safe (for example, an open-source app you built yourself), you can remove the download quarantine flag. Change the app name to match:

xattr -dr com.apple.quarantine "/Applications/App Name.app"

"You need to update…" or the app quits right away

The app may be too old for your macOS version, or built only for Intel Macs. Check for an update from the developer. See which apps still need Rosetta.

Apps from your company

On a managed Mac, IT can block apps entirely, and Open Anyway won't appear. Ask them to approve the app.

Applies to27macOS 2726Tahoe15Sequoia