CVE-2022-32832 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS and related Apple operating systems (iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS) that allows an application with root privileges to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. The vulnerability arises from improper memory handling within the kernel, which could be exploited by a malicious app already possessing root-level access to escalate its privileges further to the kernel level. Kernel privileges represent the highest level of access on the system, allowing an attacker to bypass security controls, manipulate system processes, and potentially compromise the entire operating system. This vulnerability was addressed by Apple through improved memory management in security updates released for multiple Apple OS versions, including macOS Big Sur 11.6.8, macOS Monterey 12.5, and others. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.7 (medium severity), reflecting that exploitation requires local access with high privileges (root), no user interaction, and can impact confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level. There are no known exploits in the wild reported at this time. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of macOS prior to the patched releases. Since exploitation requires root privileges, the initial compromise vector is likely through other means, such as social engineering or exploiting other vulnerabilities to gain root access before leveraging this flaw to gain kernel-level code execution.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-32832 can be significant if attackers manage to gain root access on macOS systems. Kernel-level code execution allows attackers to fully control affected devices, potentially leading to data theft, persistent malware installation, and disruption of critical services. Organizations relying on macOS devices for sensitive operations, including government agencies, financial institutions, and enterprises with intellectual property, face risks of confidentiality breaches and operational integrity loss. The vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks or advanced persistent threats (APTs) where attackers seek deep system control. Although exploitation requires prior root access, the ability to escalate privileges to kernel level increases the severity of any initial compromise. This is particularly critical in environments where macOS systems are used for administrative tasks or contain sensitive data. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits over time. European organizations must consider this vulnerability in their patch management and endpoint security strategies to prevent potential exploitation.

1. Immediate deployment of Apple’s security updates that address CVE-2022-32832 across all affected macOS and related Apple OS devices is essential. Ensure macOS Big Sur 11.6.8, macOS Monterey 12.5, or later versions are installed. 2. Enforce strict access controls and limit root-level access to trusted administrators only, reducing the likelihood of an attacker obtaining the initial root privileges needed for exploitation. 3. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for suspicious kernel-level activity or privilege escalation attempts on macOS devices. 4. Conduct regular audits of macOS systems to detect unauthorized root accounts or privilege escalations. 5. Educate users and administrators on phishing and social engineering risks that could lead to initial root compromise. 6. Employ application whitelisting and system integrity protection features available in macOS to restrict execution of unauthorized code. 7. Maintain comprehensive backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential compromises involving kernel-level exploits. 8. Monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence sources for any emerging exploit activity related to this vulnerability.