Mac incorrect storage reading: 4GB of apps taking up 152GB of space?

Hi there, I’m having the exact same problem as the OP. I have 66 apps listed. Only three of them stretch to GB, and they total about 6GB. The other 63 are MB and KB. It’s saying I have 116GB of storage used up for these apps.

I’m pretty hopeless at computers so I please bear with me. I don’t know what “helpers, fixers, optimizers, AV” are, but I don’t think I have any. I do have a VPN though.

Are you suggesting my VPN (Private Internet Access) may be causing disruption in the system that has “disappeared” 100+GB? I’m not saying you’re wrong of course but that is extremely surprising news! I did a fair bit of research before choosing PIA and this didn’t come up.

I’ve had an ongoing storage problem entirely due to things I can pinpoint. I’ve just spotted this as I’m giving it a good old spring clean in preparation for getting a new one and not wanting to transfer over a lot of drivel. I mention this because I’ve tried all the tricks listed in the link except compression (which I’m not going to learn how to do just so I can squeeze a few GB when there’s 100+GB unaccounted for).

Apple recommended your answer and I hope they’re reading this and can clarify further rather than take up more of your time.

Thank you for your help!

Apple's guidance: Free up storage space on your Mac - Apple Support

You should also get rid of all helpers, fixers, optimizers, AV, VPN and any other app that is stated to make your Mac run faster, better and/or safer.

All are not necessary and can, and will, cause system disruptions.

You have a "smallish" disk. You can attach an external drive for more storage space.

I’m pretty hopeless at computers so I please bear with me. I don’t know what “helpers, fixers, optimizers, AV” are, but I don’t think I have any. I do have a VPN though. Exactly as stated, any app that claims to make your Mac faster, better .....

Are you suggesting my VPN (Private Internet Access) may be causing disruption in the system that has “disappeared” 100+GB? I’m not saying you’re wrong of course but that is extremely surprising news! I did a fair bit of research before choosing PIA and this didn’t come up. Yes to the disruption. The app's use is your choice.

IApple recommended your answer and I hope they’re reading this and can clarify further rather than take up more of your time. Apple will not clarify. If you have further questions or problems ask them in your own separate post.