macOS App Store Error Code 3013: How to Fix It
Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- 3013
- Brand
- macOS
- Product Type
- operating_system
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated Fix Time
- 10-30 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Mac computer running macOS
- Apple ID and password
- Active internet connection
- Terminal application (built into macOS)
- Finder (built into macOS)
How to Fix Error Code 3013
-
Check and Correct Your System Date and Time
-
Sign Out of the App Store and Sign Back In
-
Clear the App Store Cache
Do not delete files from System folders. Only remove files located inside your user Library folder (~/Library), not the system-level /Library folder. -
Check Your Internet Connection and Network Settings
-
Delete the Partially Downloaded App and Retry
-
Update macOS to the Latest Version
Back up your Mac using Time Machine or another backup solution before installing a major macOS update, in case the update process encounters any issues. -
Reset the App Store Using Terminal
Only copy the Terminal commands exactly as shown. Running incorrect Terminal commands can affect system settings. If you are not comfortable using Terminal, skip this step and contact Apple Support.
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When to Call a Professional
Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store (Genius Bar) if Error 3013 persists after completing all steps above, if you suspect your Apple ID has been compromised or disabled, if your Mac fails to accept your Apple ID credentials, or if the error appears alongside other system-level errors suggesting a deeper macOS corruption issue. Apple Support can run remote diagnostics on your account and system at no charge for in-warranty devices.Frequently Asked Questions
What does macOS App Store Error Code 3013 mean?
Error Code 3013 means the App Store was unable to verify the integrity of an app during download or update. This can be caused by a corrupted download, incorrect system date and time, expired App Store session, corrupted cache files, or a network connectivity problem.
Will I lose my apps or data trying to fix Error 3013?
No. All the fixes for Error 3013 are non-destructive. Clearing the App Store cache and preferences only removes temporary session files, not your installed apps or personal data. As a general best practice, keeping a Time Machine backup is always recommended before making any system changes.
Why does Error 3013 keep coming back every time I try to update apps?
If the error keeps recurring, the most likely causes are a persistent network issue (such as a VPN or firewall blocking Apple's servers), an Apple ID authentication problem, or an outdated version of macOS that is incompatible with the current App Store certificate requirements. Make sure macOS is fully updated and try on a different network to rule out connectivity as the cause.
Does Error 3013 mean my Mac has a virus or malware?
Not necessarily. Error 3013 is a standard App Store verification error and is almost always caused by software configuration or network issues rather than malware. However, if you are seeing this error alongside other unusual behavior on your Mac, running a scan with a reputable anti-malware tool as a precaution is not a bad idea.
Can I download the app outside the App Store to avoid Error 3013?
For App Store-exclusive apps, you must use the App Store. However, many popular apps are also available directly from the developer's website as a standard installer package. If the app has an official website, you can try downloading it from there as a workaround while you troubleshoot the App Store issue. Make sure to only download software from official, trusted sources.