In this guide, we will show you various methods to fix the “App cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer” error message on your Mac. While downloading apps from the App Store and trusted websites is always recommended, however, the minority of users might have to wander and take the road less traveled. In other words, grab hold of the apps that might not be safe in the books of macOS.
However, if you are quite sure that the app you are trying to install or its origin is trustworthy, then you have the option to turn off the “App cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer” prompt. Doing so will then easily allow you to install any app of your choice without any roadblocks. So without any further ado, let’s show you various methods through which this could be carried out.
Table of Contents
Fix Mac: App cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer
You should take complete responsibility for the app that you are trying to install and re-verify that it is indeed safe to do so. Droidwin and its members wouldn’t be held responsible in case of a thermonuclear war, your alarm doesn’t wake you up, or if anything happens to your Mac and data by performing the below steps.
FIX 1: Via Right Click
Instead of trying to open the app via double click, you should opt for a right click and then select Open. You’ll now get a prompt, click Open and that’s it.
FIX 2: Using System Settings
- Head over to System Settings > Privacy and Security
- Then scroll to the Security section and your app should be listed there.
- If it isn’t, then double-click to bring up the error prompt and it will then be visible there.
- Now click on Open Anyways and this will launch the app.
FIX 3: Disable Gatekeeper
If you have a knack for installing apps from third-party sites and are regularly greeted with the “App cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer” prompt, then your best bet is to disable this security check [GateKeeper] for good. Do note that doing so could prove to be a risky bet as it might even pave the way for the entry of malicious apps onto your Mac without any hiccups. If that’s well and good, then let’s get started:
- Go to Launchpad > Others > Terminal.
- Then type in the below command to disable Gatekeeper
sudo spctl --master-disable
- Once done, go to System Settings > Privacy & Security
- Then scroll to Security and you should see the Anywhere option.
- Select it and now you’ll be able to install any apps without any checks.
- To re-enable Gatekeeper, type in the below command:
sudo spctl --master-enable
That’s it. These were the various methods to fix the “App cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer” error message on your Mac. If you have any queries concerning the aforementioned steps, do let us know in the comments. We will get back to you with a solution at the earliest.
