CVE-2022-42865 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting Apple's tvOS platform, as well as iOS 16.2, iPadOS 16.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, and watchOS 9.2. The vulnerability arises from an app's ability to bypass the Privacy preferences enforced by the operating system. Specifically, this flaw relates to insufficient access control (CWE-284), allowing an app to circumvent restrictions that normally protect user privacy settings. The issue was addressed by Apple through the implementation of a hardened runtime environment, which enforces stricter controls on app behavior and resource access. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium), with the vector indicating that exploitation requires local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but user interaction is necessary (UI:R). The impact is limited to integrity (I:H) with no confidentiality or availability impact. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions prior to the patched releases, and the patch is included in the latest OS updates from December 2022 onward. This vulnerability could allow a malicious or compromised app to perform unauthorized actions by bypassing privacy controls, potentially leading to unauthorized modification or manipulation of user data or system settings without the user's consent or knowledge.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability primarily concerns environments where Apple tvOS devices are used, such as corporate meeting rooms, digital signage, or media distribution systems. The ability of an app to bypass privacy preferences could lead to unauthorized modification of system settings or interference with user data integrity. While confidentiality and availability are not directly impacted, the integrity compromise could facilitate further malicious activities or data manipulation. Organizations relying on Apple ecosystems for internal communications or media may face risks of unauthorized app behavior, potentially undermining trust in device security. Additionally, sectors with strict privacy regulations, such as GDPR, could face compliance challenges if privacy controls are circumvented. However, since exploitation requires local access and user interaction, remote attacks are less likely, limiting the threat to scenarios involving insider threats or social engineering. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the need for vigilance.

European organizations should ensure that all Apple devices, especially those running tvOS, iOS, iPadOS, macOS Ventura, and watchOS, are updated promptly to the patched versions (tvOS 16.2, iOS/iPadOS 16.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, watchOS 9.2 or later). Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict app installation policies, allowing only vetted and trusted applications on Apple devices to reduce the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. Employ Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce app whitelisting and restrict sideloading of unapproved apps. User education is critical to minimize risky user interactions that could trigger exploitation, such as installing untrusted apps or clicking on suspicious prompts. Regular audits of installed applications and privacy settings on Apple devices can help detect anomalies. For high-security environments, consider limiting the use of Apple tvOS devices or isolating them on segmented networks to reduce exposure. Monitoring for unusual app behavior or system changes related to privacy settings can provide early detection of exploitation attempts.