I am not looking for an all or nothing control access but rather a solution like Windows implements where the permissions control is BY APP... apps get access to certain folders by permission only.
"Apps require more permissions than before: In Catalina (macOS 10.15), apps will have to ask for permission to access files in your Desktop and Documents folders, iCloud Drive, and external volumes. Plus, you’ll be prompted before any app can capture keyboard activity or a screenshot or screen recording. That’s good for security but it’s possible that older software won’t know how to ask or won’t work properly if you deny its request."
Unfortunately, there seems to be no equivalent for older macOS versions. "In the last few versions of macOS you’ve probably seen apps asking for permission to do things like access data in Contacts, Calendars, Reminders, and Photos, or be able to use the camera or microphone." but no control over folder access.