Using DockRun safely
Last updated: October 2026
DockRun can open apps, move windows, press keys and run scripts for you. That is powerful, so it is built to ask first and to let you switch things off. This page explains what DockRun does, what it cannot do, and how to use it with care.
It asks before anything risky
Running a script, pressing keys, replacing the clipboard and quitting apps always ask first, and show what they are about to do. A workflow or an AI plan cannot approve for you: the question comes to you.
A switch for every capability
Settings > Permissions & Safety lists what DockRun may do: open apps, links and files, replace the clipboard, send keyboard shortcuts, run scripts and more. Turning one off blocks it everywhere, including workflows and MCP, and the message says which switch to turn back on.
Closing is careful
Close on a workspace or workflow quits only what that run opened, after listing it. Apps with unsaved work ask to save as with Command-Q. Finder and DockRun are never quit, and a Chrome profile closes only its own windows.
An activity log
Every action DockRun runs is recorded in the Activity list with its result, so you can see what a workflow did and when.
Your data stays on your Mac
Pins, workspaces, workflows, clipboard history and settings are stored on your Mac. Your AI key, if you add one, is kept in the macOS Keychain. DockRun contacts our server to check your license, and the weather, stock, currency and AI features contact their providers only while you use them.
Scripts and MCP
A script runs with your permissions, so read it before you approve it. MCP lets an AI client you trust read your workspaces and workflows; anything that changes something needs a second opt-in and still asks you. Only connect clients you trust.
What DockRun cannot guarantee
DockRun asks and records, but it cannot know what your script will do or undo it for you. Test new workflows on things you can afford to lose, and keep backups of what matters.
A short checklist
- Read what a step will do before you press Allow.
- Switch off capabilities you do not use, in Settings > Permissions & Safety.
- Run a new script on test data first.
- Connect only AI and MCP clients you trust.
- Keep backups of anything a workflow could change or delete.
- Keep DockRun up to date.
Safety FAQ
Can a workflow do something without asking me?
Opening apps, links and files can run without a question, because you started the workflow. Scripts, key presses, clipboard replacement and quitting apps always ask, and any capability can be switched off in Settings.
Does DockRun send my files or clipboard anywhere?
No. Pins, workspaces, workflows and clipboard history stay on your Mac. It contacts our server to check your license, and widgets and AI features contact their providers only while you use them.
Can Close quit something I was working in?
Close only quits apps that the run opened, never apps you already had open, and it lists them first. Apps with unsaved work ask to save. Finder and DockRun are never quit.
How do I stop an AI client from changing things?
Leave MCP on read-only, or turn the capability off in Settings > Permissions & Safety. Without the write opt-in, an MCP client cannot change anything.
Questions about safe use? Email [email protected].