CVE-2024-23212 is a vulnerability identified in Apple’s macOS and other Apple operating systems including iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and tvOS. The root cause is improper memory handling that allows a malicious application to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. Kernel privileges provide the highest level of access on the system, enabling an attacker to bypass security controls, manipulate system processes, and gain persistent control. The vulnerability requires local access to the device and user interaction, such as running a malicious app. Apple addressed this issue by improving memory handling in the kernel, releasing patches across multiple OS versions: macOS Sonoma 14.3, Ventura 13.6.4, Monterey 12.7.3, iOS 17.3, iPadOS 17.3, watchOS 10.3, and tvOS 17.3. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating high severity, with an attack vector of local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). No public exploits have been reported yet, but the potential for privilege escalation makes this a critical risk for environments where Apple devices are used. The vulnerability affects all unspecified versions prior to the patched releases, emphasizing the need for timely updates.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Apple devices in corporate, governmental, and critical infrastructure environments. Exploitation could lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to access sensitive data, disrupt operations, or deploy further malware with kernel-level control. This is particularly concerning for sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology, where data confidentiality and system integrity are paramount. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in scenarios involving insider threats, phishing, or compromised devices. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks against high-value individuals or organizations. Failure to patch promptly may result in increased exposure as exploit techniques develop.

European organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of the security updates released by Apple for all affected operating systems. This includes macOS Sonoma 14.3, Ventura 13.6.4, Monterey 12.7.3, iOS 17.3, iPadOS 17.3, watchOS 10.3, and tvOS 17.3. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application control policies, limiting installation to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store and using Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to monitor and restrict app permissions. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of running untrusted applications and the importance of avoiding suspicious links or downloads. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools should be tuned to detect unusual kernel-level activity. Regular audits of device security posture and privilege escalation attempts can help detect exploitation attempts early. Network segmentation can reduce the impact of compromised devices. Finally, organizations should maintain up-to-date backups to recover from potential attacks.