CVE-2022-26764 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting Apple watchOS and other Apple operating systems including tvOS, macOS Monterey, iOS, and iPadOS. The vulnerability stems from a memory corruption issue that allows an attacker who has already achieved kernel code execution to bypass kernel memory mitigations. Specifically, the flaw relates to insufficient validation in kernel memory handling, categorized under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). This means that once an attacker has gained kernel-level code execution privileges, they could exploit this vulnerability to circumvent security mechanisms designed to protect kernel memory, potentially enabling further privilege escalation or persistence. The vulnerability was addressed by Apple in watchOS 8.6, tvOS 15.5, macOS Monterey 12.4, iOS 15.5, and iPadOS 15.5 through improved validation techniques. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.7, reflecting a medium severity level, with the vector indicating that exploitation requires local access (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), no confidentiality impact (C:N), high integrity impact (I:H), and no availability impact (A:N). Notably, exploitation requires the attacker to have already achieved kernel code execution, which is a significant precondition limiting the initial attack surface. There are no known exploits in the wild reported for this vulnerability. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple platforms, but the primary focus here is on watchOS. The issue highlights the importance of kernel memory mitigations in preventing attackers from gaining persistent and deeper control over the system once initial kernel execution is achieved.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-26764 is primarily relevant to those that deploy Apple devices, particularly Apple Watches, as well as other Apple platforms in their operational environment. While the vulnerability requires prior kernel code execution, which is a high bar for attackers, successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass kernel memory protections, potentially leading to full system compromise or persistence on devices. This could affect organizations relying on Apple devices for sensitive communications, authentication (e.g., Apple Watch used for two-factor authentication), or other security-critical functions. The integrity of data and system operations on affected devices could be compromised, leading to risks such as unauthorized access, data manipulation, or disruption of services. However, the lack of known exploits and the requirement for local access and user interaction reduce the immediate risk. Still, targeted attacks against high-value individuals or organizations using Apple Watches and related devices could leverage this vulnerability as part of a multi-stage attack chain. Given the increasing adoption of Apple devices in European corporate and governmental sectors, this vulnerability could be a vector for sophisticated threat actors aiming to maintain stealthy persistence or escalate privileges on compromised devices.

European organizations should ensure that all Apple devices, including Apple Watches, iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs, are updated to the patched versions: watchOS 8.6, tvOS 15.5, macOS Monterey 12.4, iOS 15.5, and iPadOS 15.5 or later. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict device management policies using Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce timely updates and restrict installation of untrusted applications that could lead to initial kernel code execution. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of monitoring for suspicious kernel-level activities or attempts to exploit kernel memory. Limit physical access to devices and educate users about the risks of social engineering or phishing attacks that could lead to the initial kernel compromise. Additionally, organizations should review and harden their overall security posture to prevent initial kernel code execution exploits, as this vulnerability only becomes exploitable after such a compromise. Regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on Apple device environments can help identify potential attack vectors leading to kernel code execution. Finally, consider isolating critical Apple devices or limiting their use in high-risk environments to reduce exposure.