CVE-2023-42930 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that permits an application to modify protected parts of the file system, which are normally restricted to prevent unauthorized changes. The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation checks within the operating system, allowing an app—without requiring privileges or prior authentication—to alter critical system files upon user interaction. This could compromise system integrity by enabling malicious persistence mechanisms or destabilizing the OS environment. The vulnerability affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patched releases: Ventura 13.6.3, Sonoma 14.2, and Monterey 12.7.2. The CVSS v3.1 score is 5.5 (medium severity), reflecting the local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requiring user interaction (UI:R). The impact is primarily on integrity, with no direct confidentiality or availability impact. No public exploits have been reported, indicating limited current exploitation but a potential risk if weaponized. The fix involves improved validation checks to prevent unauthorized file system modifications. Given the widespread use of macOS in enterprise and creative sectors, this vulnerability could be leveraged for targeted attacks or malware persistence if unpatched.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk to the integrity of macOS systems, potentially allowing attackers to implant persistent malware or alter system files critical to security and stability. This could lead to compromised endpoints, data manipulation, or disruption of business operations reliant on macOS devices. Although exploitation requires user interaction and local access, social engineering or malicious app distribution could facilitate attacks. The impact is more pronounced in sectors with high macOS usage such as creative industries, software development, and certain government or research institutions. Failure to patch could expose organizations to targeted attacks aiming to maintain long-term access or disrupt system functions. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers often reverse-engineer patches to develop exploits.

European organizations should prioritize deploying the macOS updates Ventura 13.6.3, Sonoma 14.2, and Monterey 12.7.2 or later to remediate this vulnerability. Restricting app installations to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store or enterprise-signed applications reduces the risk of malicious apps exploiting this flaw. Implementing endpoint protection solutions that monitor for unauthorized file system modifications can provide additional detection capabilities. User awareness training to recognize and avoid suspicious app installations or prompts requiring interaction is critical. Organizations should also enforce least privilege principles, limiting user permissions to reduce the impact of potential exploitation. Regular auditing of system integrity and file system changes can help identify exploitation attempts early. Finally, maintaining a robust patch management process ensures timely application of security updates.