2020-005 Update Problems Archives

How to Downgrade Safari – Supported & Unsupported Options

MrMacintosh.com - Do you need to downgrade Safari from version 14.0 to 13.1.2? I will show you 2 ways to do it. — Do you need to downgrade Safari? I will show you 2 ways to do it.

If you recently installed the Mojave Supplemental Update and were surprised to see Safari 14.0 installed, you are not alone.

UPDATE 4/30/21 – This article explained originally how to downgrade from Safari 14.0 to 13.1.2 due to a problem. Apple has pulled the Safari 14.1 Update for both Catalina and Mojave. Users are reporting the error Safari 14.1 = webpage loading errors “a problem repeatedly occurred”. You can attempt to use the same instructions to downgrade from Safari 14.1 to 14.0.3. I’ve included Safari 14.0.3 download links at the bottom

Confirmed the following after reinstall of 10.14.6 over the top of current install (retains user data)
Build Version (18G103) Safari 12.1.2
Software Update shows Security Update 2021-003 & Safari 14.0.3
Good workaround until Apple releases a fix ?
Should be the same for 10.15

You are probably asking yourself, why would anyone want to downgrade from Safari 14 to 13. Safari was offered as a separate download in software update so users could remain on Safari 13 if they wanted. This was fine until the 2020-005 Security Update started to break systems. After issue, Apple re-issued Safari 14.0 but renamed it “Mojave Supplemental Update”. This caught many off guard because they didn’t understand that installing this update was actually installing Safari 14.0.

Readers wrote in and asked me if there is a way to downgrade Safari. Many still needed Flash, others had website compatibility issues. Some just really missed Top Sites. Another big problem was that some users upgraded to Safari 14.0.1 Beta. They are still broke because the supplemental update did not include 14.0.1 as a compatible upgrade version. I recommend that you do anything possible so you don’t need to downgrade. Most users will be just fine with Safari 14. The new version includes user privacy improvements and security fixes.

Mr. Macintosh How to Downgrade Safari 14.0 to 13.1.2 video.

Supported and Unsupported

I will show you 2 different ways to downgrade from Safari 14.0 to 13.1.2.

1. Supported Way – Reinstall (not erase and install) macOS Mojave 10.14.6 (18G103) = Safari 12.1.2
2. Unsupported Way – Disable SIP protection > Remove Safari 14.app and Files > Install Safari 13.1.2 > Enable SIP again = Safari 13.1.2

When I say Supported I mean this is what Apple would recommend and is the best path forward. Unsupported is what some users have done the past that might or might not have some compatibility issues. Consider this a warning. I have tested this multiple times and not had an issue, but you might! So please backup before you test this path. You can always install Safari 14.0 again if needed.

The following instructions are only for macOS Mojave.

I did not test this on Catalina or High Sierra, but I’ve included download links below if you would like to try. Readers who have contacted me were only asking about Mojave because of the Supplemental Update naming issue.

Supported Way = Reinstall macOS Mojave

The is pretty cut and dry, you will reinstall macOS Mojave 10.14.6 over the top of your current version of Mojave. An example of this that you are running 10.14.6 (18G6032). This is the latest version of Mojave available and includes all the security fixes in the 2020-005 Update. If you want to see a full listing of macOS versions, take a look at my macOS System Status and Versions Page. After reinstalling macOS Mojave you will be at version# 10.14.6 & BuildVersion number (18G103). Safari will be at 12.1.2.

1. Backup all your files (always a good thing just in case)
2. Reboot to the Recovery Partition (Command R)
3. Click Install macOS
4. You are now at macOS Mojave 10.14.6 BuildVersion 18G103 and Safari 12.1.2
5. Install Safari 13.1.2 (download link below)
6. Install Security Update 2020-004
7. NOTE: I did NOT test installing the 2020-005 Security Update after. The Safari 13.1.2 + 2020-004 Security Update install order was offered by Apple when the 2020-005 update was pulled. This was a tested path by them and is supported.

You are back on Safari 13.1.2! Keep in mind you are missing important security updates. I hope that you can fix any compatibility issues that you may have and get on the latest version.

Unsupported Way = Uninstall Safari

As mentioned above, this is an unsupported path. Please backup your files or run a time machine before attempting this. Another thing you could do is run a tmutil localsnapshot /. You could immediately revert back to before any changes if needed. Remember the localsnapshots only last for 24 hours! I have tested this multiple times and have not found any issues, but you might! Let’s get started.

1. Make a backup first!
2. Disable SIP
3. Boot to the recovery partition > Open Terminal > Type in csrutil disable
4. Reboot
5. Download Safari 13.1.2
6. Safari 13.1.2 = http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/38/62/061-98246-A_DETHLIXKPC/njpb63acy0z0rgpdpewxts5rfjlkhtdvcy/Safari13.1.2MojaveAuto.pkg
7. Download AppCleaner v3.5 – https://freemacsoft.net/appcleaner/
8. Download Pacifist v3.6.2 – charlessoft.com/cgi-bin/pacifist_download.cgi?type=dmg
9. Install both apps
10. Use AppCleaner to remove Safari 14.0 – Go to preferences and uncheck “Protect default OS X apps”. Drag safari.app over to the app then select all files. then click remove.
11. Install Safari 13.1.2MojaveAuto.pkg using Pacifist.app – Drag Safari13.1.2MojaveAuto.pkg over to the app. A new window will pop up. Highlight the main pkg in the list then hit install. You will see 2 admin prompts and a prompt to overwrite files, select overwrite all.
12. Reboot to recovery and re-enable SIP. Open Terminal > Type in csrutil enable
13. Reboot back to macOS. You are now back to Safari 13.1.2

Download Links

You might need to cut and paste the link in a new browser tab.

Safari 14.0.3 Download for Catalina – http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/15/11/071-10831-A_F9U2DK6CTY/iiqyne50g2xt78rc08bnt49yykpo4n3cg7/Safari14.0.3CatalinaAuto.pkg

Safari 14.0.3 for Mojave – http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/44/11/071-10830-A_HVHGD91GPY/cr9a8oy39eao60prj4iwtho4s7w7l5cmm7/Safari14.0.3MojaveAuto.pkg

FOR TESTING – Safari 14.1

Safari 14.1 for Catalina

http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/62/62/071-00728-A_5SWQUDK0WB/jyq47oimzangibo4lmyevte0ezlrg8w8s9/Safari14.1CatalinaAuto.pkg

Safari 14.1 for Mojave

http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/36/06/071-02600-A_V0GH526IV1/1cn8scgv7ujlqsglord2zkdyy3ho2ebunz/Safari14.1MojaveAuto.pkg

1. Safari 13.1.2 for Mojave – UPDATE LINK DEAD! added link above. http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/38/62/061-98246-A_DETHLIXKPC/njpb63acy0z0rgpdpewxts5rfjlkhtdvcy/Safari13.1.2MojaveAuto.pkg
2. Safari 14.0 for Mojave – http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/08/46/001-55225-A_FKPERA412C/z81r8bvj47p12e0pvcz9dj33l43z7h201b/Safari14.0MojaveAuto.pkg
3. Safari 14.0 for Catalina – http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/00/48/001-50020-A_14M4NE130Q/q4lojf164rqsmp57dawdtgs25ut2d1j44m/Safari14.0CatalinaAuto.pkg
4. Safari 14.0.1 Beta Seed 2 – http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/17/19/001-52276-A_BBHPSL2B2P/ymw96wmqb7aaypn8v3wcdv6gcu9fb4o9ug/Safari14.0.1MojaveAutoSeed.pkg
Mojave 2020-004 Security Update download from Apple.com – https://support.apple.com/kb/DL2045
Mojave 2020-005 Security Update download from Apple.com – https://support.apple.com/kb/DL2054

Mojave Supplemental Update (Safari 14) Released to Fix Previous Issues

MrMacintosh.com - Apple has just released the macOS Mojave 10.14.6 "Supplemental Update" which is a fixed version of Safari 14.0. It address the problems of the previous 14.0 release. — Apple has just released the macOS Mojave 10.14.6 “Supplemental Update” which is a fixed version of Safari 14.0

The macOS Mojave 10.14.6 Supplemental Update is Live! It includes a fixed version of Safari 14.0. The update also address the problems of the previous release. Security Update 2020-005 was also re-released.

Apple has just released a Mojave Supplemental Update that address all the problems that the previous Safari 14.0 and 2020-005 Security Updates! This news comes one day after Apple pulled both software updates from the software update catalog.

You can find a full summary of the issue in the link below.

mrmacintosh.com/mojave-2020-005-security-update-causing-major-problems-updated/

UPDATE 10/08 11:30PM – Safari 14.0.1 Seed 2 was just released today. Mr. Macintosh reader Joe wrote in to let me know that after he installed Seed 2 over Seed 1 all of his problems went away! This will be a perfect fix for anyone who installed Safari 14.0.1 Seed 1 and were still having problems (since the Supplemental Update was not compatible with 14.0.1).

UPDATE 10/03 3:00PM– I’ve added a direct download link to the safari 14.0 package from the software update service in section 16 below. Apple has also added back the Mojave 2020-005 Security Update back to Apple.com downloads. The security update link is also in section 16 below.

UPDATE: 10/02 3:00PM – NOTE: Apple still has an old link to the Supplemental Update from 9/26/19 up on the the Apple downloads site. This is NOT the update you need. Apple has not released a stand alone download for this update yet. The update is only available from software update.

UPDATE: 20/02 10:30AM – I’ve added section 5 to make sure you know that the Supplemental Update will install Safar 14.0. This is important to understand in case you needed to remain on Safari 12 or 13. Some users are asking me what they should so if they installed Safari 14.0.1 Beta. I’m looking into that now.

You can also check out my new update deep dive video below.

Mojave Supplemental Update (Safari 14) Mr. Macintosh Video

1. Name of the Update?
2. Details of the macOS Mojave Supplemental Update
3. I’ve tested this update and confirmed that it fixes most issues!
4. macOS Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Re-Released
5. The Supplemental update will install Safari 14.0!
6. Inside the macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update
7. Which update does your Mac need?
8. Did you ONLY install – Safari 14.0?
9. Did you ONLY install – 2020-005 Security Update?
10. Did you install BOTH Safari 14.0 & Security Update 2020-005?
11. Did you not install either of the updates?
12. Not seeing the 2020-005 Security Update?
13. I ran softwareupdate --ignore "Security Update xx" now what?
14. Did you install Safari Beta 14.0.1 ?
15. Did I cover all the situations that you could be in?
16. 10.14.6 Supplemental Update Links
17. Security Content of macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update
18. Final Thoughts
19. Thank You

1. Name of the Update?

Apple calls this update “macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update” Which is a bit confusing. In this particular case, the naming might make sense. Even though the update only includes a fixed Safari pkg, it also includes fixes that repair previous install OS level issues.

MrMacintosh.com - running softwareupate -l to check the names of the updates. — softwareupdate -l shows the name. It’s technically called Safari14.0MojaveAuto-10.14.6

NOTE!!! The update also includes a required restart. (Normal Safari Updates do not require a restart.)

2. Details of the macOS Mojave Supplemental Update

From – support.apple.com/en-us/HT211872

MrMacintosh.com - macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update (Safari 14.0) Details. — 6. Confusing? Yes, I will explain.Contents of the 10.14.6 Supplemental Update (Safari 14.0)

macOS Mojave 10.14.6 supplemental update includes Safari 14 and bug fixes for your Mac.

Resolves an issue that could impact app performance
Addresses a stability issue with Migration Assistant
Fixes an issue that may prevent user account creation

3. I’ve tested this update and have confirmed that it fixes most of the issues! (Memory issue needs more testing)

As you can see in the first 3 patch notes, this update looks to resolve our memory issues, account creation issues and the migration assistant issues!

I have confirmed that this update at the very least fixes the following.

UPDATE! 10:30PM – I am seeing multiple reports that all memory problems are fixed after installing the new Supplemental Update!

Account creation issues
Migration assistant crashing
Software Update errors
Time Machine Local Snapshot errors.
The Memory issues looks to be sorted out (From multiple user reports!)

4. macOS Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Re-Released

Along with the new Supplemental Safari Update, the Mojave 2020-005 Security update was re-released back into the software update catalog.

5. The Supplemental update will install Safari 14.0!

I need to make this clear, If you do not want Safari 14.0 don’t install the new macOS Supplemental update! I’ve heard from a few users who need to remain on the old version. Only update when you are ready to make the jump to Safari 14.0

6. Inside the macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update

So if this is not a normal supplemental update, what is it?

MrMacintosh.com - macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update (Safari 14.0) inside Details. — This is what’s inside of the macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update (FIxed Safari 14.0)

As you can see, this update only has the fixed version of Safari 14.0 inside! NOTE: this update has a REQUIRED RESTART!

What does a normal supplemental update look like?

MrMacintosh.com - macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update #2 inside Details. — This is what’s included in a full Supplemental Update. This is the 10.14.6 Supplemental Update #2

As you can see a normal “Supplemental Update” includes a bunch of stuff. I just wanted to clear up any confusion that you might have. (I was confused when I first saw the update.)

7. Which update does your Mac need?

We have multiple scenarios to work with here. I have used a test Mac to go over the many situations that a user might be in so you are not left wondering what to do!

1. Did you install ONLY install – Safari 14.0?
2. Did you install ONLY install – 2020-005 Security Update?
3. Did you install BOTH Safari 14.0 & Security Update 2020-005?
4. Did you not install either of the updates?

Below is a screenshot of what About This Mac > System Report > Installations will look like.

System Report – This is what it would look like after installing both problematic updates then installing both fixed updates.

8. Did you only install – Safari 14.0?

Let’s say that you installed Safari 14.0 a few days ago but heard the news about all the problems that the 2020-005 security update was causing.

Your Safari Version is = 14.0 (14610.1.28.1.9)

You will see the following in Software update.

MrMacintosh.com - Did you install ONLY install - Safari 14.0? — This is what you will see if you only installed the old version of Safari 14.0

The following will happen in this scenario.

Fixed version of Safari Supplemental Update + fixes update will be installed
The Re-Released version of Mojave 2020-005 Security Update will install
Reboot
You are now fully up to date with no issues!
Mojave will be on the same Build Version 10.14.6 (18G6032)
Safari version is UPDATED – 14.0 (14610.1.28.1.10)
You are good to go!

9. Did you only install – 2020-005 Security Update?

Let’s say you need flash and you didn’t want to install Safari 14.0. But you did see the Security Update 2020-005 and installed it. In this situation, you would still be fine (maybe) even if you installed the old version of Safari 14.0. The problem would only happen if you installed Safari 14.0 first then the 2020-005 update.

What would you see in software update?

MrMacintosh.com - Did you install ONLY install - 2020-005 Security Update? — You only need to install the Supplemental Update (Safari 14.0 Fixed) and will be good to go!

In this case you would only see the fixed Safari 14.0 Supplemental Update.

Once installed you are good to go!

10. Did you install BOTH Safari 14.0 & Security Update 2020-005?

Let’s say that you had automatic updates set and you got both updates. Your system is in a broken state.

What would you see in software update?

MrMacintosh.com - What you would see in SU if you previously installed both problematic updates. — *What you would see in SU if you previously installed both problematic updates.*

The following will happen in this scenario.

Fixed version of Safari Supplemental Update + fixes update will be installed
Reboot
You are now fully up to date with no issues!
Mojave will be on the same Build Version 10.14.6 (18G6032)
Safari version is UPDATED – 14.0 (14610.1.28.1.10)
You should be fixed!!!

11. Did you not install either of the updates?

Let’s say that you heard of the news of the problematic updates and were able to save your Mac.

What would you see in software update?

MrMacintosh.com - 11. Did you not install either of the updates? — This is what you would see on a mac with 10.14.6 (18G6020) and Below.

You would see both updates

The following will happen in this scenario.

Fixed version of Safari Supplemental Update + fixes update will be installed
The Re-Released version of Mojave 2020-005 Security Update will install
Reboot
You are now fully up to date with no issues!
Mojave will be Build Version 10.14.6 (18G6032)
Safari version now – 14.0 (14610.1.28.1.10)
You are good to go!

12. Not seeing the 2020-005 Security Update?

You might have either installed the update or ignored it by running

sudo softwareupdate -ignore "Security Update 2020-005"

If so, see below

13. I ran softwareupdate –ignore “Security Update 2020-005”

In my previous post, I showed you how to ignore the problematic security update by running

sudo softwareupdate -ignore "Security Update 2020-005"

If you would like to install the re-released version of the 2020-005 Security Update, all you need to do is run this command.

sudo softwareupdate --reset-ignored

The security update will now show up in software update for you to install.

14. Did you install Safari Beta 14.0.1 ?

I am testing this situation out now.

Yikes, looks like the Supplemental Update does not show up if you have installed Safari Beta 14.0.1. The installer will let you install the Supplemental Update over the top of the 14.0.1 Beta, but does not actually install.

15. Did I cover all the situations that you could be in?

Did you have an install scenario that I missed. I attempted to cover and test them all. Let me know!

16. 10.14.6 Supplemental Update Links

Apple has not released a standalone installer or pkg for the supplemental Update. I’ve included direct links from the Software Update Service below. Apple has added the Mojave 2020-005 Security Update back to the Apple.com downloads page.

About the Supplemental Update = support.apple.com/en-us/HT211872
Direct Safari 14 download link from SUS – http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/08/46/001-55225-A_FKPERA412C/z81r8bvj47p12e0pvcz9dj33l43z7h201b/Safari14.0MojaveAuto.pkg
Safari 13.1.2 – http://swcdn.apple.com/content/downloads/38/62/061-98246-A_DETHLIXKPC/njpb63acy0z0rgpdpewxts5rfjlkhtdvcy/Safari13.1.2MojaveAuto.pkg
Direct 2020-005 Security Update link from SUS – https://updates.cdn-apple.com/2020/macos/001-48329-20200924-122a4260-eb65-4492-b08e-f69dfa22c2dc/SecUpd2020-005Mojave.dmg
Mojave 2020-005 Security Update download from Apple.com – https://support.apple.com/kb/DL2054

17. Security Content of macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT211872

18. Final Thoughts

Wow… what a week. After breaking this story on Sunday, many mainstream Apple websites started to pick up on this.

macrumors.com/2020/10/01/apple-pulls-macos-mojave-security-update/

9to5mac.com/2020/10/02/apple-releases-new-macos-mojave-10-14-6-supplemental-update-with-important-bug-fixes/

appleinsider.com/articles/20/10/01/apple-pulls-buggy-macos-mojave-security-update-safari-14

It was really cool to see this little blog mentioned. 🙂

With that said, I think Apple handled this pretty good. They might have taken a bit to pull the update, but they came out with a fix only one day later!

Hopefully we can get a closer eye on update quality moving forward.

19. Thank You

I wanted to thank all of my Mr. Macintosh readers, Twitter followers, YouTube Subscribers and those who emailed me. You have shared so many of your thank-you notes, comments, tips and fix stories. I really appreciated reading them all, I created this blog for you! I am finally at a point in my life where I can take all of the knowledge that I’ve learned along the way and share it with you.

Safari 14.0 + Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Causing Major Problems!

MrMacintosh.com - Mojave 2020-005 Security Update is Causing Major Problems for users. — *If you install Security Update 2020-005 for Mojave, you could run into major issues!*

Multiple reports are coming in from users who are starting to have major problems after installing the latest Mojave 2020-005 Security Update.

UPDATE #8 – 10/01 10:00PM – Apple has just released a fix and I’ve just finished an article going over all the details. I tried to test and figure out every scenario that you might be in, so you know exactly what will happen.

mrmacintosh.com/10-14-6-supplemental-update-safari-14-released-to-fix-previous-issues/

UPDATE #7 – 9/30 1:30PM – Apple just pulled both problematic updates!

Pulled from the update catalog
1. Safari 14.0 – Released 9/16 – 001-50026
2. Mojave 2020-005 Security Update – Released 9/24 – 001-50026

Added to the update catalog
1. Safari 13.1.2 – Released Today – 061-98246

This is Apple’s acknowledgment of the issue.

Anyone who has not installed the updates will now be safe. This also means that we should be getting an official fix!!!

Stay tuned!

9/29

UPDATE #6 – 9/29 2:00PM – I’ve expanded the softwareupate --ignore section.

UPDATE #5 – 9/28 7:30PM – I have added 3 new sections below. The first one shows you how to ignore the Mojave 2020-005 Security Update. The second will show you a very quick way to find out if your Mac is affected by this issue. In the 3rd, I will show you 4 different install scenarios. We now know the issue only happens if you install Safari 14.0 first, then install the 2020-005 update after. An example of a Mac that would unaffected by this issue would be if you installed the 2020-005 Security Update first, then the Safari 14.0 update after.

UPDATE #4 – 9/28 12:30PM – I have reproduced the install problem flow Please read section #5 below for more info. You can install the Mojave 2020-005 Security update WITHOUT Safari 14.0 and not have any issues. You can even Install Safari 14.0 after and not have any issues. It’s only when you install Safari 14.0 first then install 2020-005 after when the problems start! I will continue to test this and post updates.

UPDATE #3 – 9/28 11:30AM – After running some more tests, Safari 14.0 could be one of the problems. The next test performed was to build a fresh 10.14.6 Mac and install only the 2020-005 Security Update = No problems. I then installed Safari 14.0 = No problems. Then I reinstalled 2020-005 again = All Problems are back!!! I am going to check the order, maybe if Safari 14.0 is being installed first with softwareupdate this could be part of the problem. I am going to continue to test to find out more.

9/27

UPDATE #2 – 9/27 5:00PM – I am keeping an eye on Apple’s Software Update Server to see if they pull the update. I will update if they do.

UPDATE #1 – 9/27 3:30PM – A few users have asked if they can install the 2020-004 update over the 2020-005 update. They mentioned being able to do this in the past. Usually you can’t go backwards using Apple’s .pkg installers. I tested this out and sure enough, the installer says that a newer version of this update is installed. Apple didn’t design the installers to undo newer security updates. This is unlike the full .app installer which can replace all OS level files.

This article will include will be continually updated with the latest information on this issue.

I have some workarounds and fixes that could help you if you already installed the Mojave 2020-005 Security Update.

macOS Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Causing Major Problems Mr. Macintosh Video.

Past macOS Security Update Issues

This is not the first time that I’ve reported on update issues. Below you can read a few of the major issues that I’ve written about.

1. Security Update 2020-002 for Mojave & High Sierra causes Hardware accelerated video freezing = mrmacintosh.com/2020-002-update-causes-some-macs-to-freeze-when-using-hw-accelerated-video/
2. Security Update 2019-004 pulled after causing kernel panics = mrmacintosh.com/apple-pulls-2019-004-high-sierra-and-sierra-security-updates-after-kernel-panics/
3. Security Update 2019-001 update causing data loss on some T2 Macs = mrmacintosh.com/mojave-2019-001-security-update-causing-data-loss-if-interrupted/

1. Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Problems
2. Affected macOS Build Versions
2. Affected Mac Hardware & Intel GPU Versions
3. How can I tell if my mac is affected by this issue?
4. How can I ignore this update in software update?
5. How to Reproduce – Install Order
5. User Reports
6. This time around the issue can be reproduced
7. Fix! Rolling back with Automatic Update Snapshots. (within 24 hours of install)
8. Workarounds
9. If you are seeing this issue, please let Apple know.
10. Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Issue Links
11. Hat Tip/Credits

1. Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Problems

What are the reported problems with this update?

1. Memory issues – Reports of large increases of memory usage = no free memory and a large amount of compressed memory.
2. Slow boot & High fan speed
3. System slowness / stalling in finder
4. New local user can not be created through Users & Groups.
5. Migration assistant crashes to login window when started.
6. Large amounts of system.log entries – Class asn1SetToken is implemented in both /System/Library/PrivateFrameworks/StoreServices.framework/Versions/A/StoreServices
7. Errors when using tmutil localsnapshot /
8. Error when running softwareupdate -l (not sure if it causes any issues with the softwareupdate binary)
9. System locks up in Desktop & Screen Saver > Screen Saver when trying to select a picture type screen saver.
10. WindowServer Process using 4 times amount of memory. Should be anywhere between 40-125MB after the update it jumps to 400MB
11. cDock 4 – Dock customization app becomes unusable.
12. Menu bar sometimes does not change after switching from applications back to the finder.

1. Affected Safari & macOS Build Versions

This issue affects the following Safari & macOS Build Versions.

Safari 14.0 – September 16th, 2020
Mojave 10.14.6 Security Update 2020-005 (18G6032) – September 24th, 2020
No reports so far of this happening on macOS High Sierra 10.13.

2. Affected Mac Hardware

Past problems would only happen with certain hardware models. Not this time, if you installed the Mojave 2020-005 Security Update on a compatible Mac you might have problems.

3. How can I tell if my Mac is affected by this issue?

Very simple, just open up the terminal.app and run softwareupdate -l

If you get this error your Mac is affected.

Class AMSupportURLConnectionDelegate is implemented in both /System/Library/PrivateFrameworks/EmbeddedOSInstall.framework/Versions/A/EmbeddedOSInstall (0x1130cec58) and /System/Library/PrivateFrameworks/OSPersonalization.framework/Versions/A/OSPersonalization (0x112f31358). One of the two will be used. Which one is undefined.

4. How can I ignore this update in software update?

All you need to do is use the softwareupdate ignore option.

sudo softwareupdate --ignore "Security Update 2020-005"

After running this command you should see this

Ignored updates:

(

    "Security Update 2020-005"

)

Now run softwareupdate -l to confirm that you don’t see the update.

You can reset ignored updates by running this command

sudo softwareupdate --reset-ignored

Good thing we still can use this command. If you would like to read more about how Apple is taking this option away read the link below.

mrmacintosh.com/10-15-5-2020-003-updates-changes-to-softwareupdate-ignore/

5. How to Reproduce – Install Order

I discovered last night that on my Mojave test Mac that I couldn’t reproduce the issue even though I could on my 2nd test Mac. I realized that I only installed the 2020-005 Security update and NOT the Safari 14.0 update. This is when I restored back to the previous snapshot and tried again. For the next test, I let software update install both updates. Safari 14.0 was first then 2020-005, after the reboot I had the problem. Let’s go over a few of the install scenarios below.

Scenario #1 How to install both Updates and be affected by the issue.
1. 10.14.6 (18G103) Base Install
2. Use software update to install both Safari 14.0 and 2020-005 Updates
3. After the restart = You will have the problem.

Scenario #2 You installed Safari 14.0 as soon as it came out on 9/16
1. 10.14.6 (18G103) Base Install
2. Install Security Update 2020-005 + Reboot = You will have the problem

Scenario #3 How you can install both updates with NO PROBLEMS
1. 10.14.6 (18G103) Base Install
2. Install Security Update 2020-005 ONLY + Reboot = No Problem
3. Now Install Safari 14.0 = No Problem

Scenario #4 How you can install both updates with in the correct order and still have the problem
1. 10.14.6 (18G103) Base Install
2. Install Security Update 2020-005 ONLY + Reboot = No Problem
3. Now Install Safari 14.0 = No Problem
4. Install Security Update 2020-005 AGAIN + Reboot = You will have the problem (NOTE: the same problem happens if you use the 2020-004 installer in this step)

3. User Reports.

The first report came in on Thursday, just 4 hours after Apple released the Mojave 2020-005 Security Update.

Is anyone getting really low free RAM after applying this update? Activity Monitor says I have 12GB of RAM used right after I launch it after logging in.
MacRumors User Earl Urley

More reports started to roll in on the Apple Discussion Forums.

On September 24th Sep, after performing the security update (2020-005), I immediately noticed ram problems. Has anyone had the same problem?
Apple Discussions Forum User DoctorAudioLinks

I applied the 2020-005 Security Update today to my MacBook Pro running Mojave (10.14.6) and after it restarted, I started experiencing problems. The first and most obvious is the Dock crashes repeatedly. I have also noticed that when running applications, the menu bar does not display the app’s menus, but stays showing Finder menus. I downloaded the .dmg file with the updater on it and applied it again, thinking perhaps something went amiss the first time, but it did not resolve the issue.
Apple Discussions Forum User RestonMacGuy

After doing this job for many years, I get an sense when things are starting to become an issue. Just to be sure, I always wait for more reports and attempt to reproduce the issues myself before reporting.

Additionally, boot time is slower, logging in is slower and when doing so I’m met with a blank desktop which needs 7-8 seconds before icons finally appear. Everything feels sluggish, and applications also take more than twice as long to start up.
MacRumors Forum User Minipudding

After reading multiple reports I felt that it was time me to take a closer look. Sure enough, more users have started to report the same issues.

4. This time around the issues can be reproduced

When issues like this have come up in the past, I might not be able to reproduce them. I have to go purely on user reports, which at times can be tough. I want to make sure the reporting is very accurate. Especially when I am recommending that users not install a security update. This time around is different, I have tested the update on multiple Macs and can reproduce most of the issues. I also found a few that have not been reported on the forums or twitter.

5. A Fix! Rolling back with Automatic Update Snapshots. (within 24 hours of install)

Do you have time machine backups?

If you do, just restore and you are good to go! Now would be a good time to start. If not keep reading.

Automatic Update Snapshots was introduced as a feature in macOS High Sierra. You can read about them below. This was one of the best features that Apple has ever added to macOS. Sadly they only work for 10.13 and 10.14 Security Updates and not 10.15 Catalina Combo Updates.

mrmacintosh.com/10-15-3-combo-security-updates-are-not-creating-backup-snapshots/

Automatic Update Snapshots could save you, if you installed the Mojave 2020-005 Security Update in the last 24 hours. That’s the problem with tmutil localsnapshots they only last 24 hours!!! So if you installed the update you might still be able to roll back to the previous Mojave Security Update 2020-004 (18G6020).

Steps to restore from an Automatic Update Snapshot.

Reboot to recovery. Hold down Command R
Once in recovery select “Restore from Time Machine Backup”
On the next screen select “Macintosh HD”. If your Mac is filevault encrypted you will be asked for your password.
On the next screen, if you have a snapshot available it will look like this.

MrMacintosh.com - Automatic Update Snapshots to save the day! — If you have an automatic update snapshot available, this is what it will look like.

5. Select it and hit continue! Your Mac will now restore back to the snapshot taken just before the 2020-005 Security Update was installed.

But what if 24 hours has past since you installed the update? Keep reading below.

6. Workarounds

If you don’t have an Automatic Update Snapshot available, hopefully one of the following options will help you.

Upgrade to Catalina. This was recommended by Apple Support. If don’t want to upgrade to Catalina yet, scroll down to option #2.

We’d like to see how we can help. We recommend upgrading to the latest macOS Catalina by following the steps in this link: https://t.co/cCbnQHhGBJ
— Apple Support (@AppleSupport) September 26, 2020

2. Reinstall (Not Erase) macOS Mojave 10.14.6 (18G103)

This workaround will reinstall macOS Mojave 10.14.6 (18G103) and you will be able to keep all your files and applications. All you need to do is download the Mojave Full installer from the App Store and reinstall. To keep your Mac protected, you can install Security Update 2020-004 and not have any issues.

You can also perform an erase and install if you have all your files backed up.

Links

Download Mojave Full Installer – mrmacintosh.com/how-to-download-macos-catalina-mojave-or-high-sierra-full-installers/

Download the Mojave 2020-004 Security Update – https://support.apple.com/kb/DL2045

7. If you are seeing this issue, please let Apple know.

The only way to let Apple know that this is a big issue is to file a FeedBack Report. AppleCare Call or an Apple Enterprise Support Ticket.

This will help Apple Prioritize the issue and get it resolved ASAP!

8. Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Issue Links

This is a list of all the reports of issues with the Mojave 2020-005 Security Update

MacRumors.com

Apple Discussion Forums

Twitter.com

@AppleSupport @havertyj @vitahallo We operate a fleet of about 350 Macs, and are seeing issues with extreme stalling after Security-Update 2020-005 and 10.15.7. Not all of our machines, but enough that it concerns me. Standard troubleshooting has not helped… any news or help?
— Erkki Erik Crouch (@erkkiamerikka) September 25, 2020

I’ve had several reports about that from users. Also a few who have had serious problems after Mojave Security Update 2020-005.
— Howard Oakley, Eclectic Light Co (@howardnoakley) September 26, 2020

@Apple I installed the 2020-005 Security Update for my MacBook Air and now the computer is super slow, has no free memory left even when it just booted up, and it takes ages to start up programs. Can you give me instructions on how to uninstall the update?
— Little Djinn (@LittleDjinn) September 25, 2020

@AppleSupport The newest security update for Mojave—2020-005 10.14.6—slowed my computer to a crawl and caused nearly constant freezes. I had to roll-back to a previous version. It's a late 2015 27-inch iMac, serial C02SH3TBGG7J
— John Fraser (@sleepcircle) September 25, 2020

9. Hat Tip/Credits

Multiple Hat tips go out to my website and twitter followers for reporting the issue to me so I could take a closer look. Special thanks to Hyram Hakkenbecker for double-checking my articles for any grammar issues that sneak past!

Hopefully this article will help you.

If you recently installed the Mojave Supplemental Update and were surprised to see Safari 14.0 installed, you are not alone.

Supported and Unsupported

The following instructions are only for macOS Mojave.

Supported Way = Reinstall macOS Mojave

Unsupported Way = Uninstall Safari

Download Links

The macOS Mojave 10.14.6 Supplemental Update is Live! It includes a fixed version of Safari 14.0. The update also address the problems of the previous release. Security Update 2020-005 was also re-released.

Table of Contents

1. Name of the Update?

2. Details of the macOS Mojave Supplemental Update

3. I’ve tested this update and have confirmed that it fixes most of the issues! (Memory issue needs more testing)

4. macOS Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Re-Released

5. The Supplemental update will install Safari 14.0!

6. Inside the macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update

7. Which update does your Mac need?

8. Did you only install – Safari 14.0?

9. Did you only install – 2020-005 Security Update?

10. Did you install BOTH Safari 14.0 & Security Update 2020-005?

11. Did you not install either of the updates?

12. Not seeing the 2020-005 Security Update?

13. I ran softwareupdate –ignore “Security Update 2020-005”

14. Did you install Safari Beta 14.0.1 ?

15. Did I cover all the situations that you could be in?

16. 10.14.6 Supplemental Update Links

17. Security Content of macOS 10.14.6 Supplemental Update

18. Final Thoughts

19. Thank You

Multiple reports are coming in from users who are starting to have major problems after installing the latest Mojave 2020-005 Security Update.

9/29

9/27

Past macOS Security Update Issues

Table of Contents

1. Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Problems

1. Affected Safari & macOS Build Versions

2. Affected Mac Hardware

3. How can I tell if my Mac is affected by this issue?

4. How can I ignore this update in software update?

5. How to Reproduce – Install Order

3. User Reports.

4. This time around the issues can be reproduced

5. A Fix! Rolling back with Automatic Update Snapshots. (within 24 hours of install)

6. Workarounds

7. If you are seeing this issue, please let Apple know.

8. Mojave 2020-005 Security Update Issue Links

9. Hat Tip/Credits