CVE-2022-42791 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Apple macOS, specifically addressed in macOS Ventura 13. The vulnerability arises from a race condition, classified under CWE-362 (Race Condition), which allows an application to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. A race condition occurs when the timing or sequence of events in software execution leads to unexpected behavior, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate the system state. In this case, the improper state handling enables an unprivileged app to escalate its privileges to kernel level, granting it full control over the operating system. This can lead to complete compromise of system confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.0, indicating high severity, with the vector string AV:L/AC:H/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. This means the attack requires local access (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction is needed (UI:R), and the scope is unchanged (S:U). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the vulnerability's nature suggests that exploitation could allow attackers to bypass macOS security mechanisms, install persistent malware, or perform other malicious activities with kernel-level control. The issue was resolved by improving state handling in the kernel to prevent the race condition. No specific affected versions are listed, but the fix is included in macOS Ventura 13, implying earlier versions are vulnerable.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those relying on macOS systems in their IT infrastructure. The ability for an app to gain kernel privileges can lead to full system compromise, data breaches, and disruption of critical services. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology, which often use macOS devices, could face severe confidentiality and integrity breaches. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as phishing or social engineering could facilitate user interaction. The high impact on system availability could also disrupt business operations. Additionally, the lack of known exploits in the wild suggests that attackers may develop exploits in the future, increasing risk over time. Compliance with European data protection regulations like GDPR could be jeopardized if this vulnerability is exploited to leak personal or sensitive data.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to macOS Ventura 13 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. Since the vulnerability requires local access and user interaction, organizations should enforce strict endpoint security policies, including application whitelisting, restricting installation of untrusted apps, and educating users about phishing and social engineering risks. Implementing least privilege principles on user accounts can reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation. Regularly auditing and monitoring macOS systems for unusual kernel-level activity or privilege escalations can help detect exploitation attempts early. Additionally, organizations should maintain robust backup and recovery procedures to mitigate potential damage from exploitation. Network segmentation to isolate macOS devices handling sensitive data can further reduce impact. Finally, staying informed about any emerging exploits or additional patches from Apple is critical for timely response.