CVE-2023-42937 is a privacy vulnerability identified in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS platforms, as well as related operating systems including watchOS and macOS. The root cause lies in insufficient redaction of sensitive user data within system log entries, which could allow an unprivileged app to access confidential information that should otherwise be protected. Specifically, the vulnerability involves the leakage of private data through logs that are accessible to applications, potentially exposing sensitive user information without requiring elevated privileges. The vulnerability was addressed by Apple through improved private data redaction mechanisms in log entries, with patches released in iOS 16.7.5, iPadOS 16.7.5, watchOS 10.2, macOS Ventura 13.6.4, macOS Sonoma 14.2, macOS Monterey 12.7.3, and iOS/iPadOS 17.2. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium severity), reflecting that exploitation requires local access (attack vector: local), low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction is necessary. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality (high impact) but does not affect integrity or availability. No known public exploits have been reported to date. The CWE classification is CWE-532, which relates to exposure of information through log files. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure logging practices and data redaction to prevent leakage of sensitive information to unauthorized apps.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2023-42937 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive user data on Apple devices. This could include personal information, credentials, or other confidential data logged by the system and accessible to malicious or compromised apps. Such data leakage risks violating GDPR and other privacy regulations, potentially leading to legal and reputational consequences. Although the vulnerability does not allow modification or disruption of system functions, the confidentiality breach could facilitate further attacks such as social engineering or targeted phishing. Organizations relying heavily on Apple hardware and software for mobile workforce, executive communications, or sensitive operations are particularly vulnerable. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the medium severity and ease of exploitation with user interaction mean that unpatched devices remain at risk. This is especially relevant for sectors handling sensitive data such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure within Europe.

To mitigate CVE-2023-42937, European organizations should prioritize deploying the Apple security updates that address this vulnerability across all affected devices, including iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and macOS platforms. Patch management processes must ensure timely installation of iOS 16.7.5, iPadOS 16.7.5, watchOS 10.2, macOS Ventura 13.6.4, macOS Sonoma 14.2, macOS Monterey 12.7.3, and iOS/iPadOS 17.2. Additionally, organizations should audit installed applications and restrict app permissions to minimize exposure to potentially malicious apps that could exploit this vulnerability. Implementing Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions can help enforce update policies and monitor app behavior. User awareness training should emphasize cautious interaction with apps, especially those requesting access to logs or sensitive data. Logging and monitoring systems should be reviewed to detect unusual access patterns to logs or data leakage attempts. Finally, organizations should consider isolating sensitive workloads from devices that cannot be promptly updated or are at higher risk of compromise.