Gatekeeper is a vital security feature in macOS that ensures only trusted software runs on your Mac, thereby reducing the risk of malware infections. For organizations managing multiple Mac devices, monitoring Gatekeeper's status across all machines is crucial. Microsoft Intune offers a streamlined solution to check the Gatekeeper status on Mac devices using custom attributes.
Understanding Gatekeeper and Its Importance
Gatekeeper verifies the authenticity and integrity of applications before they are executed on a Mac. By allowing only authorized apps to run, it safeguards the system from potential threats. Ensuring that Gatekeeper is enabled across all organizational Mac devices is essential for maintaining a secure IT environment.
Leveraging Intune to Monitor Gatekeeper Status
Microsoft Intune, a comprehensive device management solution, enables administrators to oversee and manage device configurations, including security settings like Gatekeeper. By deploying a custom attribute script via Intune, administrators can efficiently determine the Gatekeeper status on all managed Mac devices.
Implementing the Custom Attribute Script
To check the Gatekeeper status using Intune, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Script: Create a shell script named CheckGatekeeperStatus.zsh with the following content:
#!/bin/zsh
gatekeeper=$(spctl --status)
notcompliance="assessments disabled"
if [[ "$gatekeeper" == "$notcompliance" ]]; then
echo "Gatekeeper is not enabled."
else
echo "Gatekeeper is enabled."
fiSource: https://www.prajwaldesai.com/check-gatekeeper-status-on-mac-using-intune/
2. Create a Custom Attribute in Intune:
- Sign in to the Microsoft Intune admin center.
- Navigate to Devices > By platform > macOS.
- Under Organize devices, select Custom attributes for macOS, then click Create.
- Provide a name and description for the custom attribute policy.
- Upload the
CheckGatekeeperStatus.zshscript. - Assign the policy to the desired device groups.
- Review and create the policy.
3. Monitor the Deployment:
- After deployment, monitor the policy's status in the Intune admin center.
- The results will indicate whether Gatekeeper is enabled or disabled on each device.
Benefits of Using Intune for Gatekeeper Monitoring
- Centralized Management: Administrators can oversee the security status of all Mac devices from a single platform.
- Automated Monitoring: Regular checks ensure that Gatekeeper remains enabled, maintaining consistent security across the organization.
- Proactive Security: Immediate identification of devices with disabled Gatekeeper allows for swift remediation, reducing potential vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
Maintaining the security of Mac devices within an organization is paramount. By utilizing Microsoft Intune to monitor Gatekeeper status through custom attribute scripts, administrators can ensure that all devices adhere to security protocols, thereby safeguarding the organization's digital assets.
More info and screenshots: https://www.prajwaldesai.com/check-gatekeeper-status-on-mac-using-intune/
