CVE-2023-27935 is a remote code execution vulnerability identified in Apple macOS, caused by insufficient bounds checking (classified under CWE-120). This flaw allows a remote attacker with low privileges to trigger unexpected application termination or execute arbitrary code on affected systems without requiring user interaction. The vulnerability affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patched releases: Ventura 13.3, Monterey 12.6.4, and Big Sur 11.7.5. The issue arises from improper validation of input data boundaries, which can be exploited remotely over the network (AV:N) with low attack complexity (AC:L) and without the need for user interaction (UI:N). The attacker must have some privileges (PR:L), but no elevated rights are necessary. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high), as arbitrary code execution can lead to full system compromise. Apple addressed the issue by implementing improved bounds checks to prevent buffer overflows or memory corruption that could be leveraged for code execution. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the high CVSS score of 8.8 reflects the severity and potential impact of this vulnerability. Organizations running vulnerable macOS versions should apply the security updates promptly to mitigate risks. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where macOS devices are exposed to untrusted networks or external users.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the potential for remote attackers to gain arbitrary code execution on macOS systems, leading to data breaches, system compromise, and disruption of services. Confidentiality could be severely impacted if attackers exfiltrate sensitive data, while integrity and availability could be compromised through malicious code execution or denial-of-service conditions caused by unexpected app termination. Sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and technology, which often rely on macOS devices, could face operational disruptions and reputational damage. The ease of exploitation without user interaction increases the threat level, especially for organizations with remote or hybrid workforces where devices connect to less secure networks. Additionally, the lack of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive patching to prevent exploitation. Failure to patch could lead to targeted attacks leveraging this vulnerability, especially in high-value or strategic European industries.

1. Immediately apply the security updates released by Apple for macOS Ventura 13.3, Monterey 12.6.4, and Big Sur 11.7.5 to all affected systems. 2. Implement network segmentation and firewall rules to restrict inbound access to macOS devices from untrusted networks, reducing exposure to remote attacks. 3. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 4. Enforce strict privilege management to limit user privileges on macOS devices, minimizing the impact of potential exploitation. 5. Conduct regular vulnerability scanning and asset inventory to identify and remediate unpatched macOS systems promptly. 6. Educate IT staff and users about the importance of timely patching and recognizing suspicious network activity. 7. For organizations with remote workforces, ensure VPNs and secure access controls are in place to protect macOS endpoints from direct exposure. 8. Monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit code or attack campaigns targeting this vulnerability to adjust defenses accordingly.