CVE-2023-42919 is a privacy vulnerability identified in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS platforms, as well as related macOS versions. The root cause lies in insufficient redaction of sensitive user data within system log entries, which could be accessed by applications running on the device. This means that an app, potentially with limited privileges, might extract private information from logs that should have been sanitized. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple operating system versions, including iOS 16.7.3, 17.2, iPadOS 16.7.3, 17.2, macOS Monterey 12.7.2, Ventura 13.6.3, and Sonoma 14.2, as well as watchOS 10.2. Apple has addressed the issue by improving the mechanisms that redact private data in logs, preventing unauthorized access. No public exploits have been reported, and the vulnerability was reserved in September 2023 and published in December 2023. The lack of a CVSS score suggests the need for an independent severity assessment. The vulnerability primarily impacts confidentiality, as sensitive user data could be exposed. Exploitation does not require elevated privileges beyond app installation, but user interaction to install or run the app is necessary. The scope is limited to devices running the affected OS versions. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where sensitive personal or corporate data is handled on Apple devices.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant privacy risk, especially in sectors handling sensitive personal data such as finance, healthcare, and government. Unauthorized access to sensitive user data could lead to data breaches, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations), reputational damage, and potential financial penalties. Enterprises relying heavily on Apple devices for mobile workforce or BYOD policies may face increased risk if devices are not promptly updated. The vulnerability could be exploited by malicious apps distributed via enterprise app stores or sideloaded, potentially exposing confidential communications, credentials, or other private information. The impact on availability and integrity is minimal, but the confidentiality breach alone is critical given the sensitivity of data on personal devices. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using iOS/iPadOS devices are particularly vulnerable if patch management is delayed.

European organizations should prioritize deploying the security updates released by Apple: iOS and iPadOS 16.7.3 and 17.2, macOS Monterey 12.7.2, Ventura 13.6.3, Sonoma 14.2, and watchOS 10.2. IT teams must verify device compliance and enforce update policies, especially for corporate-managed devices. Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to monitor patch status and restrict installation of untrusted applications. Conduct audits of installed apps to detect any unauthorized or suspicious software that could exploit this vulnerability. Educate users about risks of installing apps from unverified sources and encourage prompt installation of OS updates. For highly sensitive environments, consider restricting app permissions and using app sandboxing features to limit data access. Regularly review logs and system behavior for anomalies that could indicate exploitation attempts. Finally, maintain an incident response plan tailored to mobile device threats.