Software⏱️ 4 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: How to deal with a macOS error when using “gcloud storage cp -r?”

gcloud storage cp error on macOS Ventura

Quick Answer: Try running the command with the --no-check-certificate flag to bypass the certificate verification step.

When using 'gcloud storage cp -r' on macOS, you may encounter an error that prevents the download from completing. This issue affects users who are trying to copy files from Google Cloud Storage to their local directory. The error message indicates that the app cannot be opened because the developer cannot be verified, and this is caused by a temporary file named 'gcloud-crc32c'. This problem can be frustrating as it freezes the download window, leaving only two options: 'Move to Trash' or 'Cancel.' However, in this guide, we will explore the root causes of this issue and provide steps to resolve it.

The primary goal of this troubleshooting guide is to help you overcome this error and complete your file transfer successfully. By following these steps, you should be able to convince macOS to allow the download to finish.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The main reason for this error is that the 'gcloud-crc32c' file is flagged as an unknown developer by macOS, which prevents it from opening or running safely. This temporary file is used during the download process and does not pose a security risk in itself. However, its unknown status triggers the security warning that you see.
  • Another possible cause of this issue could be related to the permissions or access rights set on the 'gcloud-crc32c' file. If the file's permissions are set too restrictive, macOS may flag it as an unknown developer and prevent it from running.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Using the Terminal to bypass the security warning

  1. Step 1: Open the Terminal application on your Mac.
  2. Step 2: Type the following command to temporarily disable the security feature that flags the 'gcloud-crc32c' file as an unknown developer: sudo xattr -r -d com.apple.quarantine /path/to/gcloud-crc32c
  3. Step 3: Press Enter to execute the command and then try running the gcloud storage cp -r command again.
  4. Step 4: If you encounter any issues or errors, repeat this process until the download is successful.

Using a third-party tool to bypass security restrictions

  1. Step 1: Download and install a third-party tool such as 'AppCleaner' or 'CleanMyMac X', which can remove the security warning for specific files.
  2. Step 2: Launch the installed tool and navigate to the location where you saved the 'gcloud-crc32c' file.
  3. Step 3: Select the 'gcloud-crc32c' file and click on the 'Remove' button to delete it. This should disable the security restriction that's causing the issue.
  4. Step 4: After deleting the temporary file, try running the gcloud storage cp -r command again.
  5. Step 5: If you encounter any issues or errors, repeat this process until the download is successful.

✨ Wrapping Up

By following these steps, you should be able to bypass the security warning and complete your file transfer successfully. Remember that disabling security features can pose a risk if not done carefully, so proceed with caution. If none of these methods work for you, consider reaching out to Google Cloud Support or seeking further assistance from a qualified IT professional.

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