CVE-2022-32860 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Apple macOS, specifically addressed in macOS Monterey 12.5 and macOS Big Sur 11.6.8, as well as iOS and iPadOS 15.6. The underlying issue is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability (CWE-787) that arises due to insufficient input validation within the kernel. This flaw allows a malicious application to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, effectively granting it full control over the affected system. The vulnerability requires local access (Attack Vector: Local) and user interaction (UI:R), but does not require prior authentication (PR:N). Exploitation involves a low attack complexity (AC:L), meaning an attacker with limited specialized conditions can trigger the flaw once local access and user interaction are achieved. The impact is severe, affecting confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated High in the CVSS vector). Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, including the ability to bypass security mechanisms, access sensitive data, install persistent malware, or disrupt system operations. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the nature of the vulnerability and its kernel-level impact make it a critical concern for organizations relying on macOS devices. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2022 and publicly disclosed in December 2022, with patches available in the specified OS versions. Organizations running earlier versions remain vulnerable until they apply these updates.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-32860 is significant, especially for those with a substantial deployment of Apple macOS devices, including corporate laptops, desktops, and specialized systems. The ability for an app to execute code with kernel privileges can lead to full system compromise, data breaches, intellectual property theft, and disruption of business operations. This is particularly critical for sectors handling sensitive data such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. The vulnerability could also be leveraged to establish persistent footholds within networks, facilitating lateral movement and further attacks. Given the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, organizations face risks including regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR), reputational damage, and operational downtime. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users may install untrusted applications or be targeted with social engineering attacks. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive patching and mitigation.

1. Immediate deployment of the security updates provided by Apple: macOS Monterey 12.5, macOS Big Sur 11.6.8, iOS 15.6, and iPadOS 15.6. Ensure all macOS devices are updated promptly to these or later versions. 2. Implement strict application control policies using Apple’s built-in tools such as Gatekeeper and System Integrity Protection (SIP) to restrict the installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications. 3. Enforce least privilege principles for users, limiting the ability to install or run potentially malicious apps. 4. Educate users on the risks of installing unverified software and the importance of avoiding suspicious links or attachments that could lead to local exploitation. 5. Utilize endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring kernel-level activities and detecting anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Regularly audit and monitor macOS systems for signs of compromise, including unexpected kernel extensions or processes. 7. For organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies, enforce compliance checks to ensure devices are patched and secured before granting network access. 8. Consider network segmentation to limit the impact of compromised devices and reduce lateral movement opportunities.