Error: "Action needed" in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on Mac


Symptoms

You receive the following message in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on your Mac:

Action needed

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Cause

Apple requires that all new system extensions being installed from third-party developers in macOS be manually allowed.

Resolution

1) Click Action needed.

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2) In the bottom left-hand corner, click the lock icon.

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3) Authenticate using Touch ID or the username and password of an administrator on your Mac.

example screenshot  example screenshot

4) In the left-hand pane, ensure that Full Disk Access is chosen. Then, check the boxes next to the following:

  • Microsoft Defender ATP.app
  • Microsoft Defender ATP Endpoint Security Extension

example screenshot

5) Close System Preferences.

Outcome

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint will function as expected on your Mac.