CVE-2022-42831 is a race condition vulnerability in Apple macOS that allows an application with root privileges to potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. The flaw arises from improper synchronization (race condition) in the kernel code, which was addressed by Apple through improved locking mechanisms. This vulnerability affects macOS Ventura 13 and earlier versions prior to the patch, as well as iOS 16.1 and iPadOS 16 for related platforms. Exploiting this issue requires the attacker to have root-level access on the device, which is already a highly privileged state. However, successful exploitation elevates privileges further by granting kernel-level code execution, thereby compromising the entire system's confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-362 (Race Condition), indicating a timing issue in the code that can be manipulated to gain unauthorized access or control. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4 (medium severity), reflecting the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability but with limited attack vector (local access only), high attack complexity, and requiring high privileges. No user interaction is needed once root access is obtained. There are no known exploits in the wild reported so far, and Apple has released patches in macOS Ventura 13, iOS 16.1, and iPadOS 16 to remediate the issue. The vulnerability is significant because kernel-level compromise can lead to persistent control over the system, bypassing security controls and enabling stealthy malicious activities.

For European organizations using Apple macOS systems, especially those running unpatched versions prior to macOS Ventura 13, this vulnerability poses a serious risk if an attacker can gain root access. The elevation to kernel privileges could allow attackers to install persistent malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, disrupt system operations, or bypass security mechanisms such as sandboxing and system integrity protections. Organizations with macOS-based infrastructure, including development environments, executive workstations, or specialized systems, could face data breaches, operational disruptions, and compliance violations. The impact is particularly critical in sectors with high-value intellectual property or sensitive personal data, such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology. However, the requirement for initial root privileges limits the attack surface to scenarios where an attacker already has significant access, such as insider threats, compromised credentials, or chained exploits. Nonetheless, the kernel-level compromise potential elevates the threat beyond typical user-level attacks, warranting prompt patching and monitoring.

1. Immediate deployment of Apple’s security updates: Ensure all macOS systems are updated to Ventura 13 or later, and iOS/iPadOS devices to 16.1 or later. 2. Restrict root access: Enforce strict access controls and monitoring on accounts with root privileges to minimize the risk of initial compromise. 3. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting unusual kernel-level activity or privilege escalations on macOS devices. 4. Conduct regular audits of privileged accounts and system logs to detect suspicious behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 5. Employ application whitelisting and system integrity protection features native to macOS to limit execution of unauthorized code. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of granting root access and the importance of timely patching. 7. For organizations with macOS in critical environments, consider network segmentation to isolate vulnerable systems until patched. 8. Monitor threat intelligence sources for any emerging exploit techniques targeting this vulnerability to adapt defenses accordingly.