CVE-2024-23269 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS affecting Intel-based Mac computers. The root cause is a downgrade issue that allowed applications to bypass certain protections and modify parts of the file system that are normally protected. This vulnerability arises from insufficient enforcement of code-signing restrictions, which Apple has addressed by implementing additional code-signing checks in macOS Sonoma 14.4, Monterey 12.7.4, and Ventura 13.6.5. The vulnerability does not require user interaction or elevated privileges, meaning a local attacker or malicious app could exploit it without authentication. The impact is primarily on system integrity, as unauthorized modifications to protected file system areas could allow persistence of malicious code or tampering with system files. Confidentiality and availability are not directly impacted. The CVSS 3.1 score is 6.2 (medium), reflecting low attack vector (local), low complexity, no privileges required, no user interaction, unchanged scope, no confidentiality impact, high integrity impact, and no availability impact. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but unpatched systems remain vulnerable. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for organizations relying on Intel-based Macs, as Apple Silicon Macs are not mentioned as affected. The fix involves updating to the specified macOS versions where additional code-signing restrictions prevent unauthorized file system modifications.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk to the integrity of macOS systems running on Intel hardware. Attackers exploiting this flaw could implant persistent malware or tamper with critical system files, potentially leading to unauthorized control or evasion of security controls. While confidentiality and availability are not directly affected, the integrity compromise can facilitate further attacks or data manipulation. Organizations with development, creative, or administrative teams using Intel-based Macs are at higher risk. The impact is heightened in sectors where macOS is prevalent, such as technology, media, and finance. Failure to patch could lead to targeted attacks or lateral movement within networks. Since no user interaction or privileges are required, the attack surface includes any local application execution, increasing the risk from insider threats or malicious software. The absence of known exploits suggests a window of opportunity for proactive defense. Overall, the vulnerability could undermine trust in system integrity and complicate incident response if exploited.

1. Immediately apply the security updates provided by Apple: macOS Sonoma 14.4, Monterey 12.7.4, and Ventura 13.6.5 or later. 2. Restrict installation of applications to those from trusted sources, such as the Apple App Store or verified developers, to reduce risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. 3. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of monitoring file system integrity and detecting unauthorized modifications to protected areas. 4. Implement strict application whitelisting policies and use macOS built-in security features like System Integrity Protection (SIP) and Gatekeeper to limit app capabilities. 5. Conduct regular audits of system files and logs to identify suspicious changes indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted software and the importance of timely OS updates. 7. For organizations with remote or hybrid workforces, ensure secure configuration and patch management of all Intel-based Macs, including those off-network. 8. Consider network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement if a system is compromised. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on proactive patching, application control, and monitoring tailored to the specifics of this vulnerability.