CVE-2024-23227 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application to read sensitive location information due to insufficient redaction of such data. The issue affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patched releases: macOS Sonoma 14.4, Monterey 12.7.4, and Ventura 13.6.5. The vulnerability does not require any privileges or user interaction to exploit, meaning any local app running on the system can potentially access sensitive location data without explicit permission. The root cause lies in the way macOS handles redaction of location information, which was not adequately implemented, allowing apps to bypass intended privacy controls. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.2, reflecting a medium severity level, with the vector indicating local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), high confidentiality impact (C:H), and no impact on integrity (I:N) or availability (A:N). No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and the vulnerability was publicly disclosed in March 2024. The fix involves improved redaction mechanisms implemented in the specified macOS updates. This vulnerability primarily threatens user privacy by exposing location data, which can be sensitive and potentially abused for tracking or profiling. Since exploitation requires local access, it is more relevant in scenarios where untrusted or malicious apps can be installed or run on macOS devices.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-23227 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive location information, which can compromise user privacy and violate data protection regulations such as the GDPR. Organizations that handle location data for employees, customers, or assets—such as logistics companies, public services, or enterprises with mobile workforces—may face increased risks of data leakage. The confidentiality breach could lead to reputational damage, regulatory fines, and loss of trust. Since the vulnerability does not affect integrity or availability, operational disruption is unlikely. However, the ease of exploitation by any local app without user interaction increases the risk in environments where endpoint security controls are weak or where users may install untrusted software. This is particularly relevant for organizations with bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies or less controlled macOS environments. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits post-disclosure.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to the fixed versions: Sonoma 14.4, Monterey 12.7.4, or Ventura 13.6.5. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application control policies to prevent installation or execution of untrusted or unnecessary apps, minimizing the risk of local exploitation. Implementing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions that monitor for suspicious local app behavior can help detect potential abuse. Restricting app permissions to location services through macOS privacy settings and Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions reduces exposure. Regular audits of installed applications and user privileges can identify and remove risky software. For high-security environments, consider disabling location services where not essential. Employee training on the risks of installing unauthorized software and the importance of updates is also critical. Finally, monitoring for macOS updates and applying them promptly should be part of the organization's patch management process.