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CVE-2024-23209: Processing web content may lead to arbitrary code execution in Apple macOS

High
VulnerabilityCVE-2024-23209cvecve-2024-23209
Published: Tue Jan 23 2024 (01/23/2024, 00:25:25 UTC)
Source: CVE Database V5
Vendor/Project: Apple
Product: macOS

Description

The issue was addressed with improved memory handling. This issue is fixed in macOS Sonoma 14.3. Processing web content may lead to arbitrary code execution.

AI-Powered Analysis

AILast updated: 07/08/2025, 16:59:13 UTC

Technical Analysis

CVE-2024-23209 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Apple macOS, specifically related to the processing of web content. The vulnerability arises from improper memory handling during the processing of web content, which can be exploited to achieve arbitrary code execution. This means that an attacker could potentially execute malicious code on a vulnerable macOS system by convincing a user to interact with crafted web content, such as visiting a malicious website or opening a maliciously crafted web resource. The vulnerability does not require any privileges (AV:N), has low attack complexity (AC:L), does not require prior authentication (PR:N), but does require user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact is high across confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). The issue was addressed by Apple through improved memory handling and fixed in macOS Sonoma 14.3. Although the affected versions are unspecified, it is implied that versions prior to 14.3 are vulnerable. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the high CVSS score of 8.8 indicates a significant risk if exploited. The vulnerability is critical because it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with no privileges required, only needing user interaction, which is a common attack vector via web browsers or web content rendering components on macOS.

Potential Impact

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those with a substantial macOS user base, including enterprises, creative industries, and governmental agencies that rely on Apple hardware. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data theft, espionage, ransomware deployment, or disruption of critical services. The arbitrary code execution capability means attackers could install persistent malware, exfiltrate sensitive information, or disrupt operations. Given the widespread use of macOS in sectors such as finance, media, and technology across Europe, the impact could be severe, particularly if attackers leverage this vulnerability in targeted phishing campaigns or watering hole attacks. The requirement for user interaction suggests that social engineering will likely be part of the attack vector, increasing the risk in environments with less stringent user awareness training. Additionally, the lack of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive mitigation before active exploitation begins.

Mitigation Recommendations

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to version 14.3 or later to ensure the vulnerability is patched. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict web content filtering and employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting and blocking exploitation attempts. User training programs should emphasize the risks of interacting with unsolicited or suspicious web content, particularly links and attachments received via email or messaging platforms. Network segmentation can limit the lateral movement of an attacker if a device is compromised. Additionally, deploying browser security extensions or hardened configurations that reduce the attack surface of web content processing can help mitigate exploitation risks. Monitoring for unusual process behavior or network connections from macOS devices may provide early detection of exploitation attempts. Organizations should also maintain an up-to-date inventory of Apple devices to ensure comprehensive patch management and vulnerability remediation.

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Technical Details

Data Version
5.1
Assigner Short Name
apple
Date Reserved
2024-01-12T22:22:21.476Z
Cvss Version
3.1
State
PUBLISHED

Threat ID: 6839c41d182aa0cae2b435f1

Added to database: 5/30/2025, 2:43:41 PM

Last enriched: 7/8/2025, 4:59:13 PM

Last updated: 7/26/2025, 10:45:42 PM

Views: 10

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