CVE-2022-32867 is a vulnerability affecting Apple macOS and iOS devices that allows a user with physical access to the device to read past diagnostic logs. Diagnostic logs typically contain system and application-level information that can include sensitive operational details, error messages, and potentially personally identifiable information. The vulnerability arises from insufficient data protection mechanisms around these logs, enabling unauthorized access to historical diagnostic data. This issue was addressed by Apple through improved data protection measures in iOS 16 and macOS Ventura 13. The vulnerability does not require any user interaction or authentication beyond physical access, but it is limited by the need for physical possession of the device. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 2.4, indicating a low severity primarily due to the limited attack vector (physical access) and the low impact on confidentiality (limited to diagnostic logs), with no impact on integrity or availability. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-922 (Insecure Storage of Sensitive Information). There are no known exploits in the wild, and Apple has released patches in the latest OS versions to mitigate this issue.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability is relatively low but not negligible. Organizations that use Apple devices for sensitive operations or store confidential information on macOS or iOS devices could be at risk if devices are lost, stolen, or accessed by unauthorized personnel. The ability to read past diagnostic logs might expose operational details or sensitive metadata that could aid an attacker in further reconnaissance or targeted attacks. However, since the vulnerability requires physical access and does not allow modification or deletion of data, the risk is mainly related to confidentiality breaches of diagnostic information rather than system compromise or data integrity loss. Organizations with strict data protection regulations, such as GDPR, should consider the potential exposure of any personal data within diagnostic logs as a compliance risk. Overall, the threat is more relevant in scenarios involving device theft or insider threats rather than remote exploitation.

European organizations should ensure that all Apple devices are updated to iOS 16 or macOS Ventura 13 or later to benefit from the improved data protection fixes. Physical security controls should be strengthened to prevent unauthorized access to devices, including secure storage, use of strong device passcodes, and enabling full disk encryption (FileVault on macOS). Additionally, organizations should implement policies for rapid reporting and response to lost or stolen devices, including remote wipe capabilities via Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions. Regular audits of device security posture and user training on physical security best practices are recommended. For highly sensitive environments, consider restricting diagnostic log access through additional endpoint security controls or limiting the use of Apple devices where physical security cannot be guaranteed.