Forum Discussion

skatch's avatar
skatch
Frequent Contributor
3 years ago

Why does 1Password v8 need accessibility permissions?

When I brought up Quick Access while using my web browser, 1Password prompted me to open the Security preferences and give it Accessibility permissions. As a security-conscious user (I use 1Password, after all) I'm slightly suspicious and would like to know why this is required. Particularly when it wasn't a requirement in v7 in the same situation.

It seems counterproductive to, on the one hand, encourage security by using 1Password, and on the other, expect users to grant access to this relatively powerful permission without any explanation.

1Password Version: 8
Extension Version: Not Provided
OS Version: 12.3.1

macos

4 Replies

  • Former Member's avatar
    Former Member
    3 years ago

    +1 requesting OS level permissions should be explained

  • 1P_PeterG's avatar
    1P_PeterG
    Icon for Community Manager rankCommunity Manager
    3 years ago

    Hi skatch, XIII is correct. Universal Autofill uses the MacOS Accessibility APIs to work its magic. 👍

    In case it's helpful, you can find more information here: https://support.1password.com/mac-universal-autofill-preferences/

    We appreciate your feedback on this, as well as the security-conscious mindset. We're right there with you!

    I'll file a request to see how we might improve notification around that first-run experience of Quick Access. Thanks for the prompt to do so. 🙏

    ref: IDEA-I-975

  • skatch's avatar
    skatch
    Frequent Contributor
    3 years ago

    That was my guess too, but it's odd to prompt for this permission in the web browser, which I assume doesn't need it, instead of when I'm using a native app where 1Password needs this permission for Universal Autofill.

    Also, 1Password's prompt should explain why it's needed.