1.4 Ensure Installation of App Update Is Enabled

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This audit has been deprecated and will be removed in a future update.

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Information

Ensure that application updates are installed after they are available from Apple. These updates do not require reboots or admin privileges for end users.

Rationale:

Patches need to be applied in a timely manner to reduce the risk of vulnerabilities being exploited.

Impact:

Unpatched software may be exploited.

Solution

Perform the following to enable App Store updates to install automatically:
Graphical Method:

Open System Preferences

Select Software Updates

Select Advanced

Select Install app updates from the App Store

Terminal Method:
Run the following command to turn on App Store auto updating:

$ sudo /usr/bin/defaults write /Library/Preferences/com.apple.commerce AutoUpdate -bool TRUE

Note: This remediation requires a log out and log in to show in the GUI.
Profile Method:

Create or edit a configuration profile with the PayLoadType of com.apple.SoftwareUpdate

Add the key AutomaticallyInstallAppUpdates

Set the key to <true/>

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/3571