Opening photo files that I know are free of malware.

In trying to open photos I keep getting the message that Apple could not verify an image (that I have opened in the past) is free of malware and wants me to move the file to trash. How can I bypass this message and open my images? I know they are free of malware.

iMac (2017 – 2020)

Posted on Dec 7, 2025 7:48 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Dec 7, 2025 9:26 PM

Use “Open Anyway” in System Settings (the official bypass) :-)


Do this:

  1. Go to System Settings → Privacy & Security
  2. Scroll down to the bottom
  3. You will see something like:
  4. “ImageFile.jpg was blocked from opening.”
  5. Click Allow Anyway
  6. Try opening the file again
  7. Now you will get a second warning → choose Open

This permanently allows the image to open.

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Dec 7, 2025 9:26 PM in response to haftr

Use “Open Anyway” in System Settings (the official bypass) :-)


Do this:

  1. Go to System Settings → Privacy & Security
  2. Scroll down to the bottom
  3. You will see something like:
  4. “ImageFile.jpg was blocked from opening.”
  5. Click Allow Anyway
  6. Try opening the file again
  7. Now you will get a second warning → choose Open

This permanently allows the image to open.

Opening photo files that I know are free of malware.

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.