How to override security settings for downloading an app when 'the developer cannot be verified'

Hi,


I have recently purchased the MacBook Air 2020 ahead of the start of my Masters course.


For my course the university have provided a copy of SPSS to download, which I will need to use.


When I try to download this however, it stops me and comes up with the following message:


“libjvm.dylib” cannot be opened because the developer cannot be verified.


macOS cannot verify that this app is free from malware.


This file was downloaded on an unknown date.


I have tried to follow the recommended steps to resolve this, which are:


  1. In the Finder on your Mac, locate the app you want to open.
  2. Most apps can be found in the Applications folder.
  3. Control-click the app icon, then choose Open from the shortcut menu.
  4. Click Open.
  5. The app is saved as an exception to your security settings, and you can open it in the future by double-clicking it, just as you can any authorised app.


But this hasn't worked at all, does anyone know a way round this problem? the app is completely safe to use as provided directly from the university and I need to access it for the start of my first module.


Would greatly appreciate anyones help on this matter!


Thank you in advance :)



MacBook Air 13″, macOS 11.0

Posted on Jan 24, 2021 5:34 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 26, 2021 7:03 AM

Hi there Katie_a_r_1994,


We understand you're experiencing an issue with launching the SPSS app on your new MacBook Air after downloading it from your school, and we'd like to share a resource that can help.


Check it you here: Open a Mac app from an unidentified developer


Specifically, the details below may help:

"Note: You can also grant an exception for a blocked app by clicking the Open Anyway button in the General pane of Security & Privacy preferences. This button is available for about an hour after you try to open the app.

To change these preferences on your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, click Security & Privacy, then click General.

To change your security settings, see Protect your Mac from malware."


Cheers!

Similar questions

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 26, 2021 7:03 AM in response to Katie_a_r_1994

Hi there Katie_a_r_1994,


We understand you're experiencing an issue with launching the SPSS app on your new MacBook Air after downloading it from your school, and we'd like to share a resource that can help.


Check it you here: Open a Mac app from an unidentified developer


Specifically, the details below may help:

"Note: You can also grant an exception for a blocked app by clicking the Open Anyway button in the General pane of Security & Privacy preferences. This button is available for about an hour after you try to open the app.

To change these preferences on your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, click Security & Privacy, then click General.

To change your security settings, see Protect your Mac from malware."


Cheers!

Mar 10, 2021 7:14 AM in response to Katie_a_r_1994

The Developers of the App must submit to Apple for Certification and Notarization . Once Apple has agreed or disagreed with what was submitted, Apple Agrees to Certify the App, Apple will Issue a Digital Certificate to the Developer which must be included in the App. Apple can also Revoke a Certificate for whatever reason it deems.


Bottom0line - without an Apple Certificate - double the App will function

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

How to override security settings for downloading an app when 'the developer cannot be verified'

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