CVE-2022-42830 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS, specifically affecting the kernel's memory handling mechanisms. The flaw allows an application that already has root privileges on the system to escalate its privileges further by executing arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. This is due to improper memory handling, categorized under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). The vulnerability was addressed by Apple through improved memory management in macOS Ventura 13, iOS 16.1, and iPadOS 16. Exploitation requires that the attacker already controls an app with root privileges, which means the initial compromise or privilege escalation to root must have occurred prior to leveraging this vulnerability. Once exploited, the attacker can execute code at the kernel level, potentially bypassing security controls, modifying system behavior, or installing persistent malware. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.7 (medium severity), with the vector indicating local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), high privileges required (PR:H), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). There are no known exploits in the wild as of the published date, and Apple has released patches in the latest OS versions to mitigate this issue. This vulnerability is critical in scenarios where root access is already obtained, as it allows kernel-level code execution, significantly increasing the attacker's control over the system.

For European organizations using Apple macOS systems, this vulnerability poses a significant risk primarily in environments where attackers might already gain root access, such as through insider threats, misconfigurations, or chained exploits. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, including the ability to bypass kernel-level security mechanisms, access sensitive data, disrupt system availability, or implant persistent malware that is difficult to detect or remove. Sectors with high-value intellectual property, government agencies, financial institutions, and critical infrastructure operators using macOS devices could face severe confidentiality and integrity breaches. The impact is compounded in organizations that rely on macOS for critical workflows or have mixed environments where macOS devices are used for administrative or development purposes. Although the vulnerability requires prior root access, the escalation to kernel privileges can facilitate lateral movement and deeper persistence within the network, increasing the overall risk posture.

1. Ensure all macOS devices are updated to macOS Ventura 13 or later, or apply the relevant patches provided by Apple in iOS 16.1 and iPadOS 16 for mobile devices. 2. Implement strict access controls and monitoring to prevent unauthorized root access, including the use of endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools that can detect privilege escalation attempts. 3. Employ application whitelisting and restrict the installation of untrusted software to reduce the likelihood of an attacker gaining root privileges initially. 4. Regularly audit and harden system configurations to minimize the attack surface, including disabling unnecessary services and enforcing least privilege principles. 5. Use kernel integrity protection mechanisms such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) on macOS to limit kernel-level modifications. 6. Monitor logs and system behavior for anomalies indicative of kernel-level exploits or unusual root activity. 7. Educate system administrators and users about the risks of running untrusted code with elevated privileges and enforce policies to limit such practices. 8. In environments where macOS devices are critical, consider network segmentation and isolation to contain potential compromises.