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CoreLock FAQ: CoreLock is a free AI-powered security app for Mac and Windows that scans your computer for threats, audits privacy permissions, and fixes issues with one click. All scanning runs 100% locally on your device. The free tier includes 3 scans per day with no credit card required. Pro is $4.99/month with unlimited scans, auto-fix, and AI chat. CoreLock scans running processes, network connections, installed certificates, app permissions (camera, microphone, screen), startup items, and system performance in about 47 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about CoreLock. Can't find your answer? Contact us.

General

What is CoreLock?

CoreLock is a desktop app for Mac and Windows that scans your computer for security threats, privacy issues, and performance problems. It uses AI to explain everything in plain English and offers one-click fixes.

Is CoreLock safe to use?

Yes. CoreLock runs 100% locally on your device. All scanning happens on your computer — your files, processes, and system data never leave your machine unless you explicitly enable cloud sync. The app uses your operating system's keychain to encrypt any stored credentials.

Can CoreLock see my files and personal data?

CoreLock scans system-level data like running processes, network connections, installed certificates, and app permissions. It does not read your personal files, documents, photos, or browsing history. It never sends raw system data to any server.

How is CoreLock different from traditional antivirus?

Traditional antivirus relies on signature databases and gives you cryptic alerts. CoreLock uses AI to analyze your system holistically — processes, permissions, network connections, startup items — and explains what it finds in plain English. It also offers one-click fixes instead of just flagging problems.

Does CoreLock replace my antivirus?

CoreLock is a complementary security tool. It catches things traditional antivirus misses — like apps with unnecessary camera access, suspicious network connections, or rogue startup items. You can use it alongside your existing antivirus for more comprehensive protection.

Installation

Why does macOS say CoreLock is "damaged" or can't be verified?

CoreLock isn't in the App Store yet, so macOS doesn't recognize it. This is normal for indie apps. To fix it: Right-click CoreLock in Applications and select "Open", then click "Open" in the dialog. If that doesn't work, open Terminal and run: xattr -cr /Applications/CoreLock.app — then open it normally.

Why does Windows show a SmartScreen warning?

Windows SmartScreen warns about apps from new publishers. CoreLock is safe — it just hasn't been submitted to Microsoft for signing yet. Click "More info" then "Run anyway" to proceed. We're working on getting code-signed builds out soon.

Which Mac version should I download?

Click the Apple menu > "About This Mac". If you see M1, M2, M3, or M4 in the chip info, download the Apple Silicon version. If you see Intel, download the Intel version. If you're not sure, the Intel version works on both (just slower on Apple Silicon).

How do I uninstall CoreLock?

On Mac: Drag CoreLock from your Applications folder to the Trash, then empty the Trash. On Windows: Go to Settings > Apps > CoreLock > Uninstall. All local data is removed when you uninstall.

Features & Scanning

What does CoreLock scan?

CoreLock scans 8 areas: running processes, network connections, file system health, installed certificates, app permissions (camera, microphone, screen), startup items, privacy settings, and system performance. Each scan takes about 47 seconds.

What are "one-click fixes"?

When CoreLock finds an issue, it can often fix it automatically. Low-risk fixes (like clearing caches) happen instantly. High-risk fixes (like terminating processes) always ask for your approval first. You stay in control.

Does CoreLock work offline?

Yes. All security scanning works without an internet connection. The only features that require internet are AI chat, cloud sync, and subscription management.

How does the AI chat work?

CoreLock's AI assistant can answer questions about your scan results, explain security concepts, and help you understand what's happening on your system. Queries are sent to our AI provider for processing but are not stored or used for training.

Pricing & Billing

Is CoreLock really free?

Yes. The free tier gives you 3 full scans per day with offline threat detection. No credit card required, no time limit. The free tier is not a trial — it works forever.

What does Pro include?

Pro ($1/month) gives you unlimited scans, AI-powered analysis, one-click auto-fix, AI chat, cloud sync across devices, and priority support. Business ($10/month + $2/seat) adds team management and centralized security for your organization.

Can I get a refund?

Yes. We offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all paid plans. If you're not satisfied, email info@corelock.net within 30 days of purchase for a full refund.

How do I cancel my subscription?

You can cancel anytime through the app's Settings page or through your Stripe billing portal. You'll keep access to Pro features until the end of your current billing period.

Privacy & Security

Does CoreLock send my data to the cloud?

Not unless you choose to. Cloud sync is opt-in and only syncs summaries (health score, issue count), chat history, and settings. Raw system data never leaves your device.

Who can see my scan results?

Only you. Scan results are stored locally on your device. If you enable cloud sync, encrypted summaries are stored in your personal account — nobody else can access them.

Is my payment information safe?

CoreLock uses Stripe for payment processing. We never see or store your credit card number. Stripe is PCI Level 1 certified — the highest level of payment security.

Still have questions?

We typically respond within 24 hours.