Since macOS Ventura, Apple has built in extra security for Macs with Apple Silicon. Just like with an iPhone or iPad, you’ll need to approve new USB or Thunderbolt devices when you connect them to your Mac.
If you approve this, the device can be charged and data transfer is possible. If you reject the connection, the device can still charge, but no data transfer is possible. This ensures that not just any USB device can be activated on your Mac to prevent misuse.
Allow Mac accessories to connect
Once you connect new USB or Thunderbolt devices to your Mac with Apple Silicon, you must first approve them before you can use them. As soon as you connect the accessory you will see a pop-up message.
You then have the choice between ‘Allow’ or ‘Do not allow’. Confirm your identity with your password or Touch ID, only then can you use the device on your Mac.
For devices you own, you can usually just choose Allow. If you’re connecting your Mac to a public device (such as an airport charging station), it’s a good idea to choose ‘Don’t allow’. You can then charge it, but no data transfer can take place.
Enable always access to accessories
It is not recommended, but it is possible to always enable access to USB or Thunderbolt accessories. You will then no longer see a pop-up and can immediately use the devices, but this may entail certain security risks.
- Open  ▸ System Settings
- Navigate to ‘Privacy and security’
- Then scroll down to ‘Allow connection to accessories’
- Choose a desired setting
Choose ‘Automatically when unlocked’ or ‘Always’ if you want devices to always be allowed to connect without manual approval. ‘Automatic when unlocked’ is the safest choice, because if your Mac is locked, an external accessory cannot automatically gain access, but this is the case with ‘Always’.