If you use any OpenAI apps on your Mac, here is something you do not want to ignore. OpenAI is requiring all macOS users to update ChatGPT Desktop, Codex, Codex CLI, and Atlas before May 8, 2026. After that date, unupdated versions will stop working entirely.
Reason Behind the Update Requirement
The issue stems from a compromised third-party JavaScript library called Axios. On March 31, a hacker gained access to the lead maintainer's computer through a social engineering attack. Using that foothold, the attacker pushed malicious updates to versions v1.14.1 and v0.30.4 of the library, which included a remote access trojan. The bad versions were live for about three hours before being removed.
No Evidence of Data Breach
OpenAI has stated that it found no evidence that user data, systems, or source code was compromised. However, as a precaution, the company rotated its macOS code-signing certificates. This rotation is what forces users to update the apps.
Why Your ChatGPT App Will Break Without the Update
Code-signing certificates are essential for verifying that an app is legitimately from its claimed developer. By replacing the old certificate, OpenAI closes off any possibility of a fake app impersonating the real one. The downside is that apps built with the old certificate eventually stop working. This issue is exclusive to macOS; iOS, Android, and Windows users are unaffected.
How to Update
To update, visit OpenAI's announcement page for direct download links to all four apps. The deadline is May 8, 2026. You do not need to reset your password or rotate any API keys. Simply update the apps and you are good to go.
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