CVE-2022-42805 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Apple macOS, specifically addressed in macOS Monterey 12.5, iOS 15.6, and iPadOS 15.6. The flaw stems from an integer overflow, a common software vulnerability categorized under CWE-190, which occurs when an arithmetic operation attempts to create a numeric value that is outside the range that can be represented with a given number of bits. This vulnerability allows an application to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, effectively granting it the highest level of access to the operating system. The root cause was insufficient input validation, which has been improved in the patched versions. Exploiting this vulnerability requires local access (attack vector: local), no privileges (PR:N) prior to exploitation, and user interaction (UI:R), such as running a malicious app. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, as the attacker can run code at the kernel level, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or denial of service. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's nature and severity make it a critical concern for users and organizations relying on macOS devices. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects these factors, emphasizing the ease of exploitation once user interaction occurs and the significant impact on system security. The vulnerability affects all unspecified versions prior to the patched releases, indicating a broad scope of potentially vulnerable systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially those with employees or infrastructure utilizing macOS devices. The ability for an app to gain kernel-level code execution can lead to complete system takeover, enabling attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, install persistent malware, or disrupt operations. Sectors such as finance, government, technology, and critical infrastructure operators that rely on macOS for development, administration, or end-user computing could face data breaches, intellectual property theft, or operational downtime. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be leveraged to deliver malicious apps, increasing the attack surface. Additionally, organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies or remote workforces using macOS devices are particularly vulnerable. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for mitigation, but the potential for rapid weaponization exists given the severity and nature of the flaw.

European organizations should prioritize immediate patching of all macOS, iOS, and iPadOS devices to versions 12.5, 15.6, or later, respectively. Beyond patching, organizations should implement application whitelisting to restrict the execution of unauthorized or untrusted applications, reducing the risk of malicious app execution. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions should be tuned to monitor for unusual kernel-level activity or privilege escalations. User training focused on recognizing phishing and social engineering attempts is critical to prevent the initial execution of malicious apps requiring user interaction. Network segmentation can limit lateral movement if a device is compromised. Additionally, enforcing strict mobile device management (MDM) policies to control app installations and maintain device compliance will reduce exposure. Regular audits of installed applications and kernel extensions can help identify potentially malicious software. Finally, organizations should monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit activity related to CVE-2022-42805 to respond swiftly.