AusweisApp

AusweisApp is a macOS app for using Germany’s online ID function to identify yourself securely with a compatible ID card.

Governikus com.governikus.ausweisapp2

What is AusweisApp?

AusweisApp is a security and identity app for macOS that lets people use Germany’s online ID function on a Mac. It helps users identify themselves to supported online services with a German ID card, electronic residence permit, or eID card for EU citizens. The app reads the card with a compatible smartphone or card reader and establishes an encrypted connection for the identification process. Common uses include proving identity for government, administrative, and other supported digital services without visiting an office in person. It is also available on mobile devices and other desktop platforms, which can be useful when switching between a phone and a Mac during setup or card reading. Governikus publishes the app for this official digital identification workflow.

Key features

  • Identify yourself online with a compatible ID document
  • Use a smartphone or supported card reader to read the card
  • Exchange identification data in encrypted form with supported services
  • Check whether your device and ID card are ready for online identification
  • Complete identification workflows for government and other supported services

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Safety overview

Status: Safe

AusweisApp is legitimate identity software for digital ID verification. It may need access to local networking, connected card readers, or a companion smartphone workflow so your Mac can communicate with the identification process, which is normal for this type of app. Because it is used for identity checks, take the usual precaution of starting sessions only from trusted organizations and keeping the app updated.

Recommendation: Keep AusweisApp if you use online ID features on your Mac or may need them for official or supported services. If you no longer use digital ID verification, you can remove the app without affecting macOS, though future identification sessions would require reinstalling it.

Common paths

  • /Applications/AusweisApp.app

Preference paths

  • ~/Library/Preferences/com.governikus.ausweisapp2.plist
  • /Library/Preferences/com.governikus.AusweisApp2.plist

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