"ServiceExtension varies from different versions, do you really want to open it?" paraphrased popup in the morning.

This morning on Sonoma Version 14.1 (23B74) I did see a popup message about ServiceExtension being different than its prior versions and asking whether I really would like to proceed with opening it. I denied and I am now worried about security and implications. The M1 Air was in my own WPA3 Nest WiFi and was idling/standby over night with Bluetooth not turned off and no devices connected other than a direct to socket USB-C charger from Dell I've had for years. Everything was in my home and no one else had access.

iPad stayed next to it ready to be used as second screen.

I monitor the network and have not received alerts on unknown devices attempting to access.

My Nest Wifi has seen weird outages of everything or just individual Mesh AP's in the past.

My Chinese cleaning robot runs somewhat isolated in a guest network.

I have been accessing some government run websites which require profiles, certificates yesterday.

14.1.1 seems to have been released during the night to which I have not updated yet.

What might be the origin of this message?

What is the nature of ServicesExtension?

What did denying imply?

What would opening have risked?

Should I investigate it further?

I am taking security serious and have to.

I do use Setapp on this Mac. That could be relevant as it did some rather deep and weird stuff leading to issues a couple of OS versions back. I also have CleanMyMac on the machine, of which I make very reduced and relatively savvy use only for very specific tasks with all automation and backup stuff turned off, understanding that it is a mostly unnecessary and risky app.

MacBook Air 13″

Posted on Nov 8, 2023 2:58 AM

Reply
4 replies

Nov 8, 2023 3:18 AM in response to 2832

This seems to originate in WhatsApp, as I can trigger a similar popup when opening WhatsApp. ServiceExtension might have something to do with the notifications.

I did open the AppStore yesterday to check for app updates and to manually trigger them.

I saw no update available but saw a cloud and downward arrow download symbol in the AppStore next to WhatsApp, it being listed in the most popular free apps. Despite having WhatsApp already installed, it appeared as if I had had this app previously but then erased it. I downloaded it via the AppStore using the mentioned button, wondering why it would not be recognized correctly as an update. It did not cause any secondary install but has overwritten what I had and hence probably the popups. I am now wondering if my previous install was a beta, came from a different non AppStore source or simply varies too much from the current version to be updated instead of being replaced.

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.

"ServiceExtension varies from different versions, do you really want to open it?" paraphrased popup in the morning.

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