Privacy
Are Typing Sound Apps Safe? macOS Permissions and Privacy Explained
What permissions typing sound apps need, what they should never do, and how to stay safe.
Quick answer
A typing sound app should only use keystrokes to trigger audio. It should never store what you type, should not transmit your data, and should make its permissions clear.
Why permissions show up
To play sound for every app, a typing sound tool needs to detect keystrokes globally. On macOS, that typically means input monitoring. This allows the app to see key events so it can trigger audio, not to record text.
What input monitoring is not
It is not a license to record or store text. It is a permission to observe key events at a system level. A trustworthy app will explain that it uses the events only to trigger sound and nothing else.
What safe looks like
- No logging. The app should say it does not store or record what you type.
- Local processing. Sound should be generated on your Mac without sending keystrokes to a server.
- Clear privacy policy. The policy should explain exactly what is collected and why.
- Easy off switch. You should be able to disable it instantly from the menu bar.
Red flags to watch for
- Vague privacy language with no clear statement about keystrokes.
- Apps that require cloud accounts just to function.
- No obvious way to disable sound or revoke permissions.
A quick safety checklist
- Read the privacy policy before enabling permissions.
- Confirm it states that keystrokes are not stored.
- Look for a clear off switch in the menu bar.
- Disable the permission if you stop using the app.
How to vet a new app quickly
If you are trying a new tool, a few simple checks tell you a lot.
- Look for a clear statement about local-only processing.
- Check if the app works without an account.
- Search the FAQ for anything about logging or data storage.
Questions to ask support
If the policy is vague, ask direct questions before enabling access.
- Do you store or transmit keystrokes?
- Does the app function without the internet?
- Where is any diagnostic data stored?
How Thock handles privacy
Thock uses keystrokes only to trigger sound playback. It does not log or store what you type, and it runs locally on your Mac. You can review the full policy below.
How to review permissions
- Open System Settings on macOS.
- Go to Privacy & Security.
- Check Input Monitoring for apps you trust.
- Disable any app you no longer use.
FAQ
Is this basically a keylogger?
A safe app only uses keystrokes to trigger sound and does not store text. If the policy does not say this clearly, avoid it.
Can I revoke permissions later?
Yes. You can remove input monitoring access at any time in System Settings.
Will it work without permissions?
Most typing sound apps need input monitoring to work globally. If you disable it, the sound will stop.
Get the sound, keep control
Thock keeps sound local, minimal, and easy to toggle. You stay in control of every session.