The macOS 13 Ventura operating system will soon block unknown USB-C and Thunderbolt accessories by default. The new security feature will prevent first-time accessories connected to your MacBook from being used automatically. Almost all but a few types of USB-C gadgets are blocked.
To start using a MacBook-connected device, the user will have to approve it. To do so, the OS will show a pop-up window asking the user for permission.
No power adapters, standalone displays, or connections to an approved hub are required.
If the user does not approve the accessory, they will not be able to use it. However, the connected device will continue to charge. The user can block this, though.
The operating system will only start asking for permission to connect for new accessories. Any accessories that the user connected before upgrading to macOS 13 will be considered allowed.
If the user is confident about the security of USB gadgets, they can disable the automatic locking. To do this, you can change the security configuration under System Settings > Security and Privacy > Security. Initial Configuration – Request New Accessories. Approved devices can connect to a locked Mac for three days.
Restricting the use of USB-C devices by default is an attempt to prevent the device from being compromised. After all, USB accessories have a chip into which attackers can write a malicious application.
Researchers showed back in 2014 that the only salvation from an infected and malicious USB accessory is to throw it away . After all, conventional security tools are powerless against such a hardware attack.
