Over time, your "Websites" list might get cluttered. If you see a site on the list that you no longer use, select it and click the button. This resets the site to your global default setting.
Instead of allowing every site to save data to your Mac, you can curate a list of trusted sources and block the rest. Here is everything you need to know about mastering your Safari download permissions. Where to Find the Settings Over time, your "Websites" list might get cluttered
The website can download files instantly without asking. Use this only for trusted platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, or your company’s internal portal. Setting a Global Rule Instead of allowing every site to save data
In the top menu bar, click on and select Settings (or Preferences on older macOS versions). Click on the Websites tab at the top of the window. In the left-hand sidebar, scroll down and select Downloads . Customizing Website Behavior Use this only for trusted platforms like Google
This is the most secure middle ground. Safari will prompt you with a pop-up every time the site tries to initiate a download.
Malware and "adware" often use a tactic called "drive-by downloads," where a script triggers a download simply because you loaded a page. By ensuring your settings are tuned to , you create a manual gatekeeper. If a download prompt appears and you didn't click a download button, you can simply hit "Cancel" and close the tab. Pro-Tip: Clean Up Your List
To take control of your browser’s behavior, follow these steps on your Mac: