When this error occurs, the app won’t install or open, and you’ll typically see an error message like:

“(App name) can’t be opened because it is from an unidentified developer. Your security preferences allow installation of only apps from the App Store and identified developers.”"(App name) cannot be opened because the developer cannot be verified.““macOS cannot verify that this app is free from malware.”

What Is the Cause of the ‘Cannot Be Opened Because the Developer Cannot Be Verified’ Error on Mac?

While Macs are less likely to get viruses than Windows PCs, they can still get infected. Apple has a developer ID system and an app review process to reduce the frequency of users exposed to malware on macOS. Developers must register with Apple, and they have to submit their apps for review. If an app is free of malicious code like malware, the app is signed and approved. When you try to install an app from a developer who hasn’t registered with Apple, you’ll see an error message. If a registered developer releases an app that Apple hasn’t reviewed, the same thing happens. If an app were released before the registration and review processes started, it would trigger the same error. The app may be safe, but there’s no way for Apple to know one way or the other if they haven’t been able to review it.

How Do You Fix ‘App Can’t Be Opened Because It Is From an Unidentified Developer?’

To fix the error where you can’t open an unapproved app on your Mac, you have a few options.