With a fresh install of Quickbooks Online Desktop on a brand new computer I receive a pop-up that states "Apple Could Not Verify "Quickbooks Online" is free of Malware"

Hi there, @Slings-Arrows.

It's valid to be concerned about your device that couldn't verify QuickBooks Online desktop app. You'll need to update your QBO desktop app by deleting from your device and downloading it again through the official QuickBooks page.

The reason you're seeing the pop-up message is that MacOS usually scans for the files inside a program to check its activity and have detected the rollback of QBO desktop app that triggers this pop-up notification. Recently, QuickBooks Online desktop app has been rolled back to Version 2.0.21 on March 21, 2025, which is why MacOS detected a false-positive to the QBO desktop app.

After uninstalling the QBO desktop app from your device, ensure you're downloading through the official website of QuickBooks. Here's how:

1. Open and login to your QuickBooks Online in your browser.
2. Head to the Gear icon and select Get the desktop app.
3. Click Download for Mac.

Once the download is done, open the disc image file to start the QBO desktop app installation. If you're still seeing the same pop-up notification, I recommend consulting with your IT professional to turn off Antivirus temporarily and start the installation again.

Furthermore, you can also consider accessing multiple QBO companies or use split screen in your QBO desktop app.

Feel free to leave a reply if you have additional concerns about accessing QBO desktop app. I'm always here to assist.

@MarkAngeloG 

Thank you for the reply. I did a complete hard reset on my computer prior to reinstalling the Quickbooks app, so it was as fresh as possible. I downloaded the app as you instructed and installed it. The results are the same. The app is being blocked by OSX and I am unable to use it.

I appreciate the comment "If you're still seeing the same pop-up notification, I recommend consulting with your IT professional to turn off Antivirus temporarily and start the installation again.", however I am an IT professional and I have no Antivirus installed. This is being blocked by OSX itself.

I have attached a screenshot from the Security and Settings menu showing that it is being blocked. You'll forgive me if I'm not super keen on bypassing security protocols for a reputable company.

Any timelines on a real and proper fix?

I truly appreciate you for trying the suggestions provided by my colleague, Slings-Arrows. Let’s make sure you get the appropriate support to resolve the error efficiently.

I’ll connect you to our Live support team who can perform a screen share to thoroughly diagnose the error. They are equipped with the right tools to identify the underlying cause and determine why you're still unable to install the application. This ensures the issue is investigated and resolved effectively.

Here's how:

1. Sign in to your QuickBooks Online, then click the Help icon.
2. Choose either tab to get started: Assistant or Search.
3. Type your concern and Select Contact Us.
4. Click Chat with us or Callback option.

I'd also recommend checking the support hours to know the best time to contact them at your convenience.

Additionally, if you wish to edit your sign-in information, please access this material: Update or change your Intuit Account sign-in information.

If you have any questions about installing your app, please don't hesitate to circle back. I am here to ensure you receive a timely response.

I'm having the same issues.  It's the first time I've tried to install the app, so there is no old version.  My computer is up to date and there is no firewall to prevent the download.

I appreciate the details you shared, Molly. 
 

Downloading the QBO Desktop App from our official website ensures you won't encounter any errors when opening the app.
 

If the issue persists after downloading from the official website, I recommend contacting your IT support team or Apple support for further assistance.
 

Furthermore, you can visit this material to help you manage your credentials or modify personal details efficiently and securely: Update or change your Intuit Account sign-in information.
 

Feel free to return to this thread if you have any additional questions.

@mollyhxyzproperties  "My computer is up to date and there is no firewall to prevent the download."

None at all?

That is a bit concerning.

Not that would prevent this.