CVE-2023-40410 is a security vulnerability discovered in Apple’s iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS platforms. The issue stems from an out-of-bounds read condition caused by insufficient input validation in the kernel, which could allow a malicious or compromised app to read kernel memory that it should not have access to. Kernel memory disclosure can reveal sensitive information such as kernel pointers, cryptographic keys, or other critical data that could be leveraged to bypass security mechanisms or escalate privileges. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple operating systems, including iOS 17, iPadOS 17, macOS Ventura 13.6, macOS Monterey 12.7, macOS Sonoma 14, watchOS 10, and tvOS 17. Apple has addressed the issue by improving input validation in the kernel, thereby preventing out-of-bounds reads. There are currently no known exploits in the wild, indicating that attackers have not yet publicly leveraged this vulnerability. Exploitation requires an app to be installed and executed on the device, but does not require user interaction beyond app installation and execution. This vulnerability is significant because kernel memory disclosure can be a stepping stone for more severe attacks such as privilege escalation or persistent compromise. The lack of a CVSS score necessitates an independent severity assessment based on the impact on confidentiality, ease of exploitation, and scope of affected systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to environments where Apple devices are widely used, including corporate mobile devices, tablets, and potentially macOS endpoints. Disclosure of kernel memory can compromise the confidentiality of sensitive information and may facilitate further attacks such as privilege escalation or kernel-level exploits. This could lead to unauthorized access to corporate data, intellectual property theft, or disruption of services if attackers leverage the vulnerability to gain deeper system control. Organizations in sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure that rely on Apple devices for secure communications and operations could face increased risk. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the potential for future exploitation means that unpatched systems remain vulnerable. Additionally, the vulnerability could be exploited by malicious insiders or through supply chain attacks involving malicious apps. The impact on availability and integrity is indirect but possible if attackers use the disclosed information to compromise system stability or security controls.

European organizations should prioritize deploying the security updates released by Apple for iOS 17, iPadOS 17, macOS Ventura 13.6, macOS Monterey 12.7, macOS Sonoma 14, watchOS 10, and tvOS 17. Patch management processes must ensure rapid installation of these updates on all managed Apple devices. Restricting app installations to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store and enforcing mobile device management (MDM) policies can reduce the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. Organizations should audit installed apps to detect any unauthorized or suspicious applications. Employing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions that monitor for anomalous kernel memory access or unusual app behavior can provide early warning of exploitation attempts. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of installing untrusted apps. For highly sensitive environments, consider additional controls such as application whitelisting and kernel integrity monitoring. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing on Apple devices can help identify residual risks. Finally, maintain up-to-date incident response plans to address potential exploitation scenarios involving kernel memory disclosure.