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macOS permissions

macOS permission issues

Gatekeeper, the quarantine attribute, and per-folder permissions are the three most common macOS blockers.

UPDATED 2026-05-104 minBeginner

No ROMs / no copyrighted assets

This independent guide does not host or link to game files. Use your own legally obtained copy.

Symptoms

  • Dusk is blocked because Apple cannot check it for malicious software.
  • App is 'damaged' warning on first run.
  • App opens but cannot read your supported copy.

Likely causes

  • Gatekeeper has flagged the unsigned binary.
  • Quarantine attribute set on the downloaded archive.
  • Files / Folder access permission missing.

First safe fixes

Try in this order

  • System Settings → Privacy & Security → 'Open Anyway' next to Dusk.
  • Re-download cleanly from the official source if it appears 'damaged'.
  • Grant Files & Folders / Full Disk access if the prompt appears.
  • Grant Removable Volumes access if your copy is on an external drive.

Still stuck?

Open the troubleshooting wizard for a different symptom or platform combination. If everything checks out and the issue persists, file a bug at the official Dusk project.

Reference slug: macos-permissions

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