CVE-2023-42945 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS, specifically related to Bluetooth permissions. The root cause is a permissions issue where an application can bypass intended restrictions and gain unauthorized access to Bluetooth interfaces. This flaw violates the principle of least privilege, allowing potentially malicious apps to interact with Bluetooth hardware and data without explicit user consent or elevated privileges. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of macOS prior to the release of Sonoma 14.1, where Apple has implemented additional restrictions to close this security gap. The CVSS v3.1 score of 9.1 reflects the vulnerability's severity, with an attack vector that is network-based (remote), low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. The impact on confidentiality and integrity is high, as unauthorized Bluetooth access could lead to data leakage, unauthorized device pairing, or manipulation of Bluetooth communications. Although no exploits have been publicly reported, the ease of exploitation and critical nature of the flaw make it a significant threat. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control), highlighting its nature as a permissions bypass issue. This vulnerability underscores the importance of strict access controls for hardware interfaces like Bluetooth, which are commonly used for peripheral connectivity and data exchange.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a substantial risk, particularly for sectors relying heavily on macOS devices and Bluetooth connectivity, such as finance, healthcare, and technology. Unauthorized Bluetooth access can lead to data exfiltration, interception of sensitive communications, or unauthorized control of Bluetooth peripherals, potentially compromising confidential information and operational integrity. The risk extends to corporate environments where Bluetooth is used for secure device pairing, authentication tokens, or IoT device management. Exploitation could facilitate lateral movement within networks or enable persistent access through Bluetooth channels. Given the critical CVSS rating and ease of exploitation, organizations face a high likelihood of compromise if devices remain unpatched. The absence of required privileges or user interaction lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the threat landscape. Additionally, the vulnerability may impact compliance with European data protection regulations such as GDPR, as unauthorized data access could constitute a breach. The overall impact includes potential operational disruption, reputational damage, and regulatory penalties.

The primary mitigation step is to update all affected macOS devices to version Sonoma 14.1 or later, where Apple has implemented the necessary permission restrictions to address this vulnerability. Organizations should enforce strict patch management policies to ensure timely deployment of this update across all endpoints. Beyond patching, implementing application whitelisting and restricting installation of untrusted or unsigned applications can reduce the risk of malicious apps exploiting this flaw. Monitoring Bluetooth activity logs and network traffic for unusual patterns or unauthorized device pairings can help detect exploitation attempts early. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying anomalous Bluetooth usage. Educate users about the risks of installing unverified applications and the importance of applying system updates promptly. For high-security environments, consider disabling Bluetooth on macOS devices where it is not essential. Finally, review and tighten macOS privacy and security settings related to Bluetooth permissions to minimize exposure.