OpenAI lets ChatGPT read and send Apple Messages on Mac, raising privacy fears

OpenAI has rolled out a new ChatGPT feature that lets the AI read, write, send, and search through Apple’s Messages app on Mac computers, provided users grant explicit consent and enable Full Disk Access in system settings. The tool works locally using macOS features like AppleScript and Accessibility, and does not create an index of all messages. Apple has not commented on the development, which adds pressure on its privacy‑focused brand. For Nigerians, the integration revives concerns raised by NITDA’s December 2025 cybersecurity advisory, which warned of seven vulnerabilities in GPT‑4o and GPT‑5 models that could allow attackers to hijack ChatGPT via malicious webpages or URLs, potentially exposing private chats. Users must manually approve several permissions before the feature operates, similar to other AI automation tools on macOS.

Given these risks, Nigerian users should weigh the convenience of AI‑assisted messaging against the possibility of data exposure, especially when handling sensitive personal or business conversations. Will you enable ChatGPT’s access to your Messages app after reviewing the required permissions, or will you keep the feature disabled to protect your privacy?

SOURCE: https://nairametrics.com/2026/08/21/chatgpt-gains-access-to-apple-messages-raises-privacy-concerns/