BlockBlock
Free macOS monitor that alerts you when software tries to make itself launch at startup.
- Verified facts
- 5 of 5
- Alternatives ranked
- 3
- Approved reviews
- 0
- Visits sent from here
- 0
About BlockBlock
BlockBlock is a small security tool for macOS from the Objective-See Foundation, the non-profit started by Mac security researcher Patrick Wardle. Most Mac malware has to install itself somewhere that macOS runs automatically, such as launch agents, launch daemons or login items. BlockBlock watches those persistence locations through Apple's Endpoint Security framework and pops up an alert whenever something new is added, showing the process responsible, its code signature, process ancestry and VirusTotal results. You then allow or block the item, and your choice is saved as a rule. Optional modes can also flag non-notarized apps and downloaded scripts. It is not a signature-based antivirus: it does not scan files for known threats, so it suits people who want to see and approve changes rather than rely on a scanner. BlockBlock is free and open source under the GPL, needs Full Disk Access to work, and runs only on macOS.
Best for: Mac users and admins who want to approve anything that sets itself to run at login or boot.
Pros and cons
What works
- Catches persistence attempts as they happen instead of after a scheduled scan
- Alerts show the responsible process, signing details and VirusTotal results
- Free and open source, made by a non-profit with a long Mac security track record
Why people leave
- Does not detect or remove known malware the way a scanner does
- Alerts for legitimate installers need judgement from the user
- macOS only, and requires Full Disk Access and system privileges
Top BlockBlock alternatives
See all 3- 1
KnockKnock66.5Same developer and also free; scans for everything already set to persist instead of watching for new items.
- 2
Malwarebytes62.6A full scanner with real-time protection that detects known Mac malware rather than leaving each decision to you.
- 3
ClamXAV59.6Mac-only antivirus with scheduled and background scans, for people who want signature detection.
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BlockBlock: common questions
Is BlockBlock free?
Yes. BlockBlock is free, open-source software.
Is BlockBlock open source?
No, BlockBlock is not open source.
What platforms does BlockBlock run on?
BlockBlock is available for macOS.
What are the best alternatives to BlockBlock?
The highest-ranked BlockBlock alternatives right now are KnockKnock, Malwarebytes and ClamXAV. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.