CVE-2022-42842 is a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting Apple macOS and related operating systems including tvOS, iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS. The vulnerability stems from improper memory handling within the kernel, specifically categorized under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). An unauthenticated remote attacker can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, potentially gaining full control over the affected device. The vulnerability is notable for requiring no user interaction and no prior authentication, making it highly exploitable remotely. The affected versions include macOS Monterey 12.6.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, macOS Big Sur 11.7.2, and corresponding versions of other Apple OSes. Apple addressed the issue through improved memory handling in these updates. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 9.8, reflecting the critical nature of the vulnerability with attack vector network (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the severity and ease of exploitation make this a significant threat to all users of vulnerable Apple devices. The kernel-level compromise could allow attackers to bypass security mechanisms, install persistent malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt system operations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-42842 is substantial, especially for enterprises and government entities relying on Apple hardware and software ecosystems. A successful exploit could lead to full system compromise, enabling attackers to access confidential corporate or governmental data, manipulate system integrity, and cause denial of service. This is particularly critical for sectors handling sensitive information such as finance, healthcare, defense, and critical infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote and unauthenticated nature increases the risk of widespread exploitation, potentially affecting remote workers using Apple devices. Additionally, the ability to execute kernel-level code can facilitate advanced persistent threats (APTs), making detection and remediation more challenging. The disruption could extend to supply chain operations and cloud services if Apple devices are used as endpoints or management consoles. Given the integration of Apple devices in many European organizations, the threat could undermine trust in IT infrastructure and lead to significant financial and reputational damage.

To mitigate CVE-2022-42842, European organizations should prioritize the following actions: 1) Immediate deployment of Apple’s security updates: macOS Monterey 12.6.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, macOS Big Sur 11.7.2, and corresponding updates for iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, and watchOS. 2) Implement network-level protections such as intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) to monitor and block suspicious traffic targeting Apple devices. 3) Restrict remote access to Apple devices via VPNs or zero-trust network access (ZTNA) solutions to reduce exposure. 4) Conduct thorough asset inventories to identify all Apple devices in the environment and verify patch status. 5) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of monitoring kernel-level activities for signs of exploitation. 6) Educate IT staff and users about the criticality of timely patching and risks of unpatched devices. 7) For high-security environments, consider network segmentation to isolate vulnerable Apple devices from sensitive systems. 8) Monitor threat intelligence feeds for emerging exploit techniques related to this CVE to adapt defenses proactively. These measures go beyond generic patching by emphasizing network controls, visibility, and operational readiness.