The Apple USB Policy allows administrators to control USB functionality on managed macOS devices.
This policy is designed for organizations that need to restrict data transfer, prevent unauthorized USB peripherals, or enhance security by limiting external device access.
This is especially useful in environments with strict compliance requirements (e.g., SOC 2, HIPAA, PCI DSS, ISO 27001) or where USB usage must be tightly controlled.
Overview
USB ports provide convenient connectivity for peripherals and storage devices, but they can also introduce significant security risks, such as:
Data exfiltration via removable drives
Malware introduced via USB storage devices
Unauthorized hardware, such as keyboards or network adapters
The Apple USB Policy provides IT admins with a simple, centralized way to block USB functionality on macOS devices enrolled in Swif.ai.
Requirements
macOS 12.0 or later
Configurable Settings
Disable USB
Controls whether USB functionality is allowed on the device.
Setting | Behavior |
True | USB functionality is disabled. New USB devices cannot connect, and data transfer is blocked. |
False | USB functionality remains enabled. |
Notes:
When USB is disabled, essential built-in components (keyboard, trackpad, internal devices) are not affected.
USB power remains functional (for charging), but data transfer is blocked.
Requires macOS 12.0+ for enforcement.
When to Use This Policy
Enable USB restrictions when you need to:
Prevent data loss or unauthorized copying
Restrict use of untrusted external devices
Comply with security frameworks requiring removable media controls
Harden security on devices in high-risk environments (labs, retail, kiosks, manufacturing, finance, healthcare, etc.)
Prevent users from connecting USB mass storage or rogue USB injection devices
How to Configure
Open the Swif Admin Console
Navigate to Policies → Create New Policy
Select Apple USB Policy
Set Disable USB to True or False depending on your security requirements
Click Continue
Assign the policy to devices or device groups
Save and apply
Devices will apply the new USB restrictions during their next MDM sync.
Best Practices
Combine USB blocking with Apple Security, Firewall, and Disk Encryption policies for comprehensive protection
Use device groups to apply USB restrictions based on department or security level
Test USB restrictions on a pilot group before organization-wide rollout
Ensure users understand that charging still works, but data transfer is restricted
Troubleshooting
USB still appears to work after enabling the policy
Ensure the device is on macOS 12+
Confirm the device has checked in with MDM recently
Rebooting the device may help apply restrictions immediately
Built-in keyboard/trackpad stops working
This should not happen; USB restrictions only apply to external peripherals
If observed, verify that the device is using genuine Apple hardware (especially on laptops)