CVE-2022-42840 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Apple macOS operating systems, including macOS Monterey, Ventura, and Big Sur, as well as iOS and iPadOS versions 15.7.2 and 16.2. The vulnerability arises from improper memory handling, specifically a memory safety issue classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). Exploitation of this flaw allows a malicious application to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. Kernel privileges represent the highest level of access on the system, enabling an attacker to bypass all security controls, manipulate system processes, escalate privileges, and potentially install persistent malware or rootkits. The vulnerability requires local access (AV:L) and low attack complexity (AC:L), but no privileges are required (PR:N). However, user interaction is necessary (UI:R), meaning the user must run or interact with a malicious app for exploitation to succeed. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level, as arbitrary code execution in kernel mode can lead to full system compromise. Apple addressed this issue by improving memory handling in the affected components, releasing patches in macOS versions 12.6.2, 13.1, and 11.7.2, as well as corresponding iOS and iPadOS updates. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, but the high CVSS score of 7.8 indicates significant risk if exploited. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows privilege escalation from an unprivileged app to kernel-level code execution, which can be leveraged for persistent and stealthy attacks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-42840 can be substantial, especially for enterprises and government entities that rely on Apple macOS and iOS devices. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, enabling attackers to access sensitive data, disrupt operations, or establish persistent footholds within networks. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, critical infrastructure, and public administration, which often use Apple devices for secure communications and operations, are at heightened risk. The ability to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges can facilitate data exfiltration, espionage, ransomware deployment, or sabotage. Moreover, the requirement for user interaction means that social engineering or phishing campaigns targeting employees could be effective vectors. Given the widespread use of Apple devices in European corporate and governmental environments, unpatched systems could become prime targets for advanced persistent threat (APT) groups or cybercriminals aiming to exploit this vulnerability for espionage or financial gain.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigation measures beyond generic patching advice: 1) Prioritize immediate deployment of Apple’s security updates for macOS (12.6.2, 13.1, 11.7.2) and iOS/iPadOS (15.7.2, 16.2) across all managed devices to eliminate the vulnerability. 2) Enforce strict application whitelisting and restrict installation of untrusted or unsigned applications to reduce the risk of malicious app execution. 3) Enhance endpoint detection and response (EDR) capabilities to monitor for unusual kernel-level activity or privilege escalation attempts. 4) Conduct targeted user awareness training focused on recognizing and avoiding malicious apps or phishing attempts that could trigger exploitation. 5) Implement network segmentation to limit lateral movement if a device is compromised. 6) Utilize Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce timely patching and control device configurations. 7) Regularly audit device inventories to identify and remediate any unpatched or unmanaged Apple devices. These steps collectively reduce the attack surface and improve detection and response capabilities against exploitation attempts.