Does the new EA App for Mac create a vulnerability?
This was posted on EA Answers HQ:
"mightyspritesims
★★ Pro

5 pt
On Mac with the new EA App installed, EA Background Service runs as a process owned by root, not by the user. EA Background Service also self-starts every time the computer is booted up. This means that there is a process running whenever the computer is on, with root-level access, with access to the internet and software installation.
This is a major security risk.
Origin (and all reputable Mac software) runs with user-level access only. Root access should only be requested when the software is being updated or new DLC installed, and then discontinued after the update is complete.
The way that Mac and Unix systems protect themselves against viruses and malware is to be very picky about which programs get root access and for how long. EA Background Service bypasses this protection. This is the equivalent of disabling anti-virus software on a PC the entire time the PC is running.
EA App on Mac is still relatively new, but if this continues to be the case, it won't be long before creators of viruses and malware exploit it."
I do not know enough about coding to verify or deny if a potential vulnerability exits, but I am very concerned. I have not yet installed the new EA App for Mac and do not want to install unless it is safe. But I cannot play The Sims 4 until the new app is installed because the "opportunity" to install grays out Origin which I used to start my game.
If anyone can verify that the app is 100% safe, I would certainly appreciate it.
iMac 27″, macOS 12.7