Feature keyboard shortcuts don’t work

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Resolve issues with certain keyboard shortcuts on macOS.

On macOS, certain keyboard shortcuts in Adobe InDesign may stop working when Secure Keyboard Entry is enabled by third-party security software or other system-level utilities.

When modifier-based shortcuts (such as Shift, Option, or Command combinations) stop functioning in InDesign on macOS, the issue is typically caused by system-level software intercepting keyboard input.

Examples include:

  • Holding Shift while resizing does not constrain proportions.
  • Cmd + Spacebar does not activate zoom.
  • Other modifier-based shortcuts fail intermittently.

Keyboard modifier keys appear unresponsive within InDesign while functioning normally in other applications.

Secure Keyboard Entry prevents applications from detecting certain key combinations, which can interfere with InDesign’s shortcut handling.

Third-party security software turned on Secure Keyboard Entry

The exact wording varies by application (for example, “Pause Secure Keyboard Entry” or “Disable keyboard protection”).

Locate the security application in the macOS menu bar.

Open its settings or drop-down menu.

Deselect Secure Keyboard Entry.

Return to InDesign and test the shortcuts.

If the issue persists, check for other utilities that may intercept keyboard input. For example, keyboard remapping tools, macro or automation software, clipboard managers, accessibility or input-enhancement utilities, etc. Temporarily quit these applications and check again.

Shortcut set is modified

Select InDesign > Keyboard Shortcuts.

In the Set drop-down menu, choose Default.

Select OK to restore default shortcut behavior.