How to fix the error "App is damaged and can’t be opened. You should move it to the Trash" on Mac

Modified on Thu, 23 Jan at 1:25 PM

 

This error usually occurs because of security settings on your Mac. Here's how to resolve it:

  1. Check the App in Finder:

    • Open Finder and locate the app that is causing problems.
    • Click on the app while holding the control key, then select 'Show Package Contents'.
    • If you see any suspicious files that don't look like they belong to the app, it could be that the app is indeed damaged and it might be best to delete it and download a new copy.
  2. System Preferences:

    • Go to Apple Menu > System Preferences > Security & Privacy.
    • In the General tab, you'll see a section 'Allow apps downloaded from'.
    • If the app was downloaded from the internet, select 'App Store and identified developers'.
    • If the app is from an unidentified developer and you're confident it's safe, you may need to select 'Anywhere'. If you don't see this option, you can enable it using Terminal.
  3. Enable 'Anywhere' Option Using Terminal:

    • Open Terminal (you can find it in Applications > Utilities).
    • Enter the following command and hit enter: sudo spctl --master-disable
    • This will prompt you for your password, which you should enter.
    • After this, 'Anywhere' should be available in System Preferences > Security & Privacy.
  4. Open the App Again:

    • You should now be able to open the application.

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