msdf-bmfont-xml

macOS Security Mechanisms & Solution Summary

Background

On macOS, executables downloaded from the internet are blocked by Apple’s security mechanisms, including:

• Gatekeeper: Prevents running unverified apps
• Quarantine Attribute: Marks files downloaded from the internet
• Code Signature Check: Verifies app integrity and origin

Automatic Handling & Technical Implementation

The install script includes the following automatic steps:

1. Remove Quarantine Attribute

   xattr -d com.apple.quarantine /path/to/msdfgen
   

2. Clear All Extended Attributes

   xattr -c /path/to/msdfgen
   

3. Apply Temporary Code Signature

   codesign --force --deep --sign - /path/to/msdfgen
   

4. Set Permissions

   chmod +x /path/to/msdfgen
   

5. Verification Test: Test if the binary runs correctly

If automatic repair fails, the script handles errors gracefully and provides detailed manual instructions.

Manual Solutions

If automatic handling fails or you encounter security warnings, try the following methods:

Method 1: Allow via System Preferences

1. Attempt to run msdfgen and a security warning will pop up
2. Open System Preferences > Security & Privacy
3. In the General tab, click Open Anyway or Allow
4. Re-run the program

Method 2: Allow via Terminal

# Add to Gatekeeper allow list
sudo spctl --add /path/to/bin/darwin_arm64/msdfgen.osx

# Or allow all apps from a specific developer
sudo spctl --add --label "msdfgen" /path/to/bin/darwin_arm64/msdfgen.osx

Method 3: Temporarily Disable Gatekeeper (Not Recommended)

# Disable Gatekeeper
sudo spctl --master-disable

# Remember to re-enable after running
sudo spctl --master-enable

Method 4: Manual Code Signing

If you have a developer certificate:

codesign --force --sign "Your Developer ID" /path/to/msdfgen

Verification & Troubleshooting

Check Quarantine Attribute

xattr /path/to/bin/darwin_arm64/msdfgen.osx

Check Code Signature

codesign -dv /path/to/bin/darwin_arm64/msdfgen.osx

Check Gatekeeper Status

spctl -a /path/to/bin/darwin_arm64/msdfgen.osx

Common Errors and Solutions

• Error 1: “msdfgen cannot be opened because the developer cannot be verified”
  • Solution: Use Method 1 or 2 to allow the app
• Error 2: “msdfgen is damaged and can’t be opened”
  • Solution: Run the install script to re-download the binary, or manually clear quarantine attribute: xattr -c /path/to/msdfgen
• Error 3: Permission Denied
  • Solution: chmod +x /path/to/bin/darwin_arm64/msdfgen.osx
• Error 4: codesign Failed
  • Solution: Make sure Xcode Command Line Tools are installed: xcode-select --install, or skip code signing and use other methods

Other Troubleshooting Methods

1. Check system logs:

   log show --predicate 'eventMessage contains "msdfgen"' --last 1h
   

2. Check Gatekeeper policy:

   spctl --status
   

3. Reset LaunchServices database:

   /System/Library/Frameworks/CoreServices.framework/Frameworks/LaunchServices.framework/Support/lsregister -kill -r -domain local -domain system -domain user
   

Environment Variable Control

Skip macOS Security Handling

SKIP_MACOS_SECURITY=1 npm install

Skip Entire Install Process

SKIP_MSDFGEN_INSTALL=1 npm install

Enterprise Environment Advice

IT administrators may need to:

1. Pre-approve Applications:

   sudo spctl --add --label "msdfgen" /Applications/msdfgen
   

2. Configure MDM Policies to allow specific unsigned apps

3. Sign with Enterprise Certificate:

   codesign --force --sign "Developer ID Application: Your Company" msdfgen
   

Security Considerations

• Only download binaries from trusted sources
• Update regularly to the latest version
• In production, use a verified code-signed version
• Avoid disabling Gatekeeper completely, as it reduces system security
• Least privilege principle: only necessary changes are applied
• All steps are logged, user can choose to skip
• Does not harm system security settings

User Experience Improvements

• ✅ Most users do not need manual intervention
• ✅ Clear error messages and guidance
• ✅ Compatible with existing workflows
• ✅ Supports enterprise deployment needs

This solution ensures msdf-bmfont-xml works seamlessly on macOS while maintaining system security.

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