PermissionScanner
PermissionScanner is a macOS utility for checking folders for files you can't read or write, helping troubleshoot file permission problems.
What is PermissionScanner?
PermissionScanner is a macOS utility that helps users find file-permission problems in folders on their Mac. It scans a chosen folder and reports files that the current user cannot read or cannot write, which is useful when apps fail to save settings, documents, or other data because of incorrect permissions. The app is aimed at troubleshooting and diagnostics rather than everyday file management, and it can perform focused checks instead of broad permission resets. It includes deeper and shallower scan options, a verbose mode, and the ability to scan standard locations such as parts of the Home folder or another folder you choose. PermissionScanner is published by Howard Oakley through The Eclectic Light Company.
Key features
- Scan folders for files that are not readable by the current user
- Scan folders for files that are not writable by the current user
- Check standard locations in the Home folder for permission problems
- Scan a folder of your choice for targeted troubleshooting
- Use verbose output for more detailed diagnostics
- Choose deeper or shallower scans depending on how much you want to inspect
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
PermissionScanner is a legitimate troubleshooting utility for macOS. To inspect protected locations accurately on some macOS versions, it may need Full Disk Access, which is a normal requirement for this kind of permission-checking tool. Grant that access only if you intend to use the app, and remove the permission later if you no longer need it. Results from protected folders and app containers can be noisy, so changes to permissions should be made carefully and only when you understand the effect on your files or apps.
Recommendation: Keep PermissionScanner if you use it to diagnose save, settings, or file-access problems on your Mac. If you no longer troubleshoot permission issues, you can remove it without affecting macOS itself, though you may also want to revoke any privacy permissions you granted for it.
Common paths
/Applications/PermissionScanner.app
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