How can I fix permissions for files in the /var/folders/zz?

Solution 1:

These application cache directories can be deleted and will be re-created with proper permissions, after a reboot and the various parent applications are re-launched.

There is a lot of confusing half-responses to this question online, but it is safe to delete these folders, and this is a foolproof way to correct permissions. However, it is important that you only delete the underlying folders and do not delete the /var/folders/zz folder itself. There has been at least one bug reported that the OS will not automatically re-create the zz directory (although this may be fixed now).

It is very likely that the system will prevent some of the folders from being deleted. This is usually fine as well.

After deleting the folders, you should reboot immediately.

sudo rm -rf /var/folders/zz/zy*
sudo shutdown -r now

When the system boots and related application start up, the required directories will automatically be re-created with the proper permissions.

Some things that this fix can solve, include:

• The Adobe Flash Installer always failing to install.
  • see: https://forums.adobe.com/message/9192807#9192807
• Apple Software Update failing to install anything.
  • see: Software Update Permissions error
• Apple Setup Assistant or the login screen showing question marks for all font characters.
  • see: https://discussions.apple.com/thread/7696662?start=0&tstart=0
• and likely many other things.

More Details:

see: http://www.magnusviri.com/OS_X_Admin/what-is-var-folders.html

see: https://osxbytes.wordpress.com/2015/03/19/boot-hang-after-deleting-var-folders/comment-page-1/