CVE-2022-32802 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Apple macOS and other Apple operating systems including iOS 15.6, iPadOS 15.6, and tvOS 15.6. The vulnerability arises from a logic issue in the way the operating system processes certain files. Specifically, processing a maliciously crafted file can lead to arbitrary code execution. This means an attacker could potentially execute code of their choice on a vulnerable system by tricking a user into opening or processing a specially crafted file. The flaw is categorized under CWE-693, which relates to protection mechanism failures due to logic errors. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high severity level. The vector string (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H) reveals that the attack requires local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but user interaction is necessary (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Apple addressed this issue by improving internal checks in the affected components, and patches were released in macOS Monterey 12.5 and the corresponding iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS versions. No known exploits in the wild have been reported to date. However, the potential for arbitrary code execution makes this vulnerability a significant threat, especially if exploited in targeted attacks or malware campaigns. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of macOS prior to the patched releases, so systems not updated remain at risk. Given the requirement for local access and user interaction, exploitation typically involves social engineering or delivery of malicious files via email, downloads, or removable media.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-32802 could be substantial, particularly in sectors with a high reliance on Apple macOS devices such as creative industries, software development, education, and certain government agencies. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or establish persistence for further attacks. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that intellectual property, personal data protected under GDPR, and critical business functions could be jeopardized. Since the attack requires user interaction and local access, phishing campaigns or malicious file distribution remain likely vectors. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using macOS devices are especially vulnerable if endpoint security and patch management are not rigorously enforced. Additionally, the lack of known exploits in the wild does not preclude future weaponization, so proactive mitigation is critical to prevent potential targeted attacks or malware outbreaks leveraging this vulnerability.

European organizations should prioritize the following specific mitigation steps: 1) Immediate deployment of the official patches released by Apple in macOS Monterey 12.5 and corresponding iOS/iPadOS/tvOS versions to all affected devices. 2) Implement strict endpoint security controls that include file scanning and sandboxing to detect and block maliciously crafted files before they reach end users. 3) Enhance user awareness training focused on recognizing and avoiding suspicious files and phishing attempts, emphasizing the risk of opening unexpected attachments or downloads. 4) Employ application whitelisting and restrict execution privileges to limit the impact of any arbitrary code execution. 5) Monitor logs and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools for unusual file processing activities or indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability. 6) Enforce least privilege principles on macOS devices to reduce the potential damage from exploitation. 7) Regularly audit and update asset inventories to ensure all Apple devices are identified and patched promptly. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific attack vector (malicious file processing) and the operational context of Apple macOS environments.