Microsoft is listening to keyboard input even while using other apps

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Level 1

8 points

Microsoft is listening to keyboard input even while using other apps

Hello

Microsoft Teams has many keyboard shortcuts and they seem to often be interfering even when the app is not focused. For example Ctrl+Shift+S can call everyone on your team. It's more then just me. See here https://microsoftteams.uservoice.com/forums/555103-public/suggestions/33965626-disable-or-modify-keyboard-shortcuts

MacOS has a permission under "Security & Privacy" for "Input Monitoring" but Microsoft Teams is not listed there. How is Teams aloud to monitor global key input without asking for the permission?

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 11.5

Posted on Aug 27, 2021 12:27 AM

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Answer 1

Loner T

Level 9

59,536 points

Aug 27, 2021 3:49 AM in response to JakeWesorick

If an application 'asks' for permission and registers, it will show up in this pane. If it does not, and still does it (without permission), you will not see it here. I have 'You have Microsoft Teams Version 1.4.00.16567. It was last updated on 7/26/21.' and Ctrl+Shift+S does nothing. Also, please check System Preferences -> Keyboard -> Shortcuts for any definitions that may have been overlooked.

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Answer 2

JakeWesorick Author

Level 1

8 points

Aug 28, 2021 12:04 AM in response to Loner T

Thank you for your response. Are apps aloud to just not ask for the permission and listen to all keyboard input anyway? I would think MacOS would prevent that.

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Answer 3

Loner T

Level 9

59,536 points

Aug 28, 2021 2:25 AM in response to JakeWesorick

If an Application is installed and running, it can 'register' to receive events. Can you check if Teams is running?

Normally, an Application should register itself, if it uses the 'Input Monitoring' function and you should see it as registered. Also, check if settings in System Preferences -> Accessibility are allowing such access.

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Microsoft is listening to keyboard input even while using other apps

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