CVE-2023-41996 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows applications failing verification checks to still launch on affected systems. Normally, macOS employs strict app verification to ensure that only trusted and properly signed applications execute, protecting the system from malicious or tampered software. However, due to insufficient enforcement of these verification checks, untrusted applications could bypass these controls and run, potentially enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code, maintain persistence, or escalate privileges. The vulnerability was addressed in macOS Ventura 13.6 by implementing improved verification mechanisms that prevent unverified apps from launching. Although the affected versions are unspecified, it is implied that versions prior to Ventura 13.6 are vulnerable. There are no known exploits reported in the wild at this time, but the flaw represents a significant risk due to the fundamental role of app verification in macOS security. This vulnerability undermines the integrity and potentially the confidentiality and availability of affected systems by allowing unauthorized code execution without requiring user authentication or interaction. The lack of a CVSS score necessitates a severity assessment based on impact and exploitability factors.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to the integrity and confidentiality of macOS systems. If exploited, attackers could run malicious applications that bypass security controls, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized access, or disruption of services. Organizations relying on macOS for critical operations, including government agencies, financial institutions, and enterprises with macOS endpoints, could face increased risk of compromise. The ability to launch unverified apps without user interaction or authentication increases the threat level, especially in environments where endpoint security relies heavily on app verification. This could facilitate malware deployment, lateral movement, or persistence within networks. The impact is heightened in sectors with stringent data protection requirements under GDPR, where unauthorized access or data leakage could result in regulatory penalties and reputational damage.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS systems to Ventura 13.6 or later to ensure the improved verification checks are in place. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application whitelisting policies using Apple’s built-in tools such as Gatekeeper and System Integrity Protection (SIP). Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions should be configured to monitor for execution of unverified or suspicious applications. Regular audits of installed applications and their signatures can help identify potential unauthorized software. User education on the risks of running untrusted applications remains important. For managed environments, deploying configuration profiles that restrict app installation sources and leveraging Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies will reduce exposure. Additionally, monitoring for anomalous process execution and network activity can help detect exploitation attempts early.