CVE-2022-42832 is a race condition vulnerability in Apple macOS that allows an application with root privileges to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. The flaw arises due to improper synchronization (race condition) in the kernel, which was addressed by improved locking mechanisms in the patched versions. This vulnerability affects macOS Ventura 13 and earlier versions prior to the fix, as well as iOS 16.1 and iPadOS 16 for related platforms. Exploiting this vulnerability requires that the attacker already has root-level access on the device, which is a high privilege level. Once exploited, the attacker can escalate privileges from root user space to kernel space, potentially gaining full control over the system, including the ability to bypass security controls, manipulate system processes, and compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is local (AV:L), requires high attack complexity (AC:H), high privileges (PR:H), and no user interaction (UI:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). No known exploits are reported in the wild as of the published date, but the vulnerability is significant due to the potential for kernel-level code execution. The root cause is classified under CWE-362 (Race Condition), which typically involves improper handling of concurrent operations leading to unexpected behavior.

For European organizations using Apple macOS systems, particularly those running unpatched versions of macOS Ventura or earlier, this vulnerability poses a risk of privilege escalation from root to kernel level. Although exploitation requires existing root access, which limits the initial attack surface, the impact of successful exploitation is severe. Attackers could gain full control over affected systems, potentially leading to data breaches, disruption of critical services, or persistent malware installation at the kernel level that is difficult to detect and remove. Organizations in sectors with high reliance on macOS devices, such as creative industries, software development firms, and certain government agencies, may face increased risk. The vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks where an adversary has already compromised a system at root level or through insider threats. Given the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, the vulnerability could facilitate advanced persistent threats (APTs) or sabotage of critical infrastructure components running on macOS. However, the requirement for local root access and high attack complexity somewhat limits widespread exploitation, reducing the likelihood of mass exploitation campaigns.

1. Immediate patching: Organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to macOS Ventura 13 or later versions that include the fix for CVE-2022-42832. Similarly, iOS and iPadOS devices should be updated to versions 16.1 or later. 2. Restrict root access: Enforce strict policies to limit root-level access only to trusted administrators and processes. Use role-based access controls and monitor for unauthorized privilege escalations. 3. Monitor for suspicious activity: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting unusual kernel-level activity or attempts to exploit race conditions. 4. Harden system configurations: Disable unnecessary services and applications that require root privileges to reduce the attack surface. 5. Employ application whitelisting: Restrict execution of untrusted or unsigned applications, especially those requesting elevated privileges. 6. Conduct regular audits: Perform security audits and penetration testing focusing on privilege escalation vectors to identify potential weaknesses before exploitation. 7. Incident response readiness: Prepare for potential kernel-level compromises by having robust backup and recovery procedures, and ensure forensic capabilities to analyze kernel exploits. These measures go beyond generic advice by emphasizing root access restriction, monitoring for kernel-level anomalies, and proactive auditing tailored to the nature of this vulnerability.