What Causes This Error?
When you sign in with Apple on Windows, Hedy opens your browser to complete the authentication. After you sign in with Apple, the browser redirects back to Hedy on your computer. The "connection refused" error means the browser could not reach Hedy to complete the sign-in.
This is usually caused by firewall or security software blocking the connection between your browser and Hedy.
How to Fix It
Make sure Hedy is still running: Hedy must remain open while you complete the Apple sign-in in your browser. Do not close or minimize Hedy before the sign-in finishes.
Check your firewall settings: Windows Firewall or third-party firewalls (Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, etc.) may block Hedy from receiving the sign-in response. Try temporarily disabling your firewall, then attempt Apple Sign-In again. If it works, add Hedy as an allowed app in your firewall settings.
Check antivirus software: Some antivirus programs block local network connections. Look for a "Web Protection" or "Network Protection" feature in your antivirus settings and add an exception for Hedy.
Disable VPN or proxy software: VPN or proxy tools can interfere with local connections. Try disconnecting your VPN and signing in again.
Try running Hedy as administrator: Right-click the Hedy app and select Run as administrator, then try Apple Sign-In again.
Use an Alternative Sign-In Method
If the steps above do not resolve the issue, you can sign in using a different method:
Google Sign-In: Tap "Continue with Google" on the sign-in screen
Email and password: If you originally signed up with Apple, you can add a password to your account from another device (iOS, macOS, or web) by going to Settings > Account > Set Password, then use that email and password to sign in on Windows
Tip: This issue is specific to your computer's security configuration. It is not a problem with your Hedy account or Apple ID. Your data and account are safe.