CVE-2024-23277 is a vulnerability identified in Apple iOS and iPadOS that allows an attacker positioned with privileged network access to spoof a keyboard device and inject arbitrary keystrokes into the target system. The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation of input devices, enabling an attacker to impersonate a trusted keyboard and send unauthorized input commands. This can compromise the integrity of the device by allowing unauthorized command execution or manipulation of user input without requiring user interaction or authentication. The issue affects unspecified versions prior to iOS/iPadOS 17.4 and macOS Sonoma 14.4, where Apple has implemented improved checks to validate input devices and prevent spoofing. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.9 (medium severity), reflecting network attack vector with high attack complexity, no privileges required, no user interaction, and impact limited to integrity. While no exploits have been observed in the wild, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks where the attacker has network-level privileged access, such as within compromised enterprise networks or malicious Wi-Fi environments. The attack scenario requires the attacker to be on the same network segment or have the ability to intercept and manipulate network traffic to the device, which limits the scope but still poses a significant risk to sensitive environments. This vulnerability highlights the risks associated with peripheral device spoofing and the importance of robust device authentication mechanisms in mobile operating systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized command execution or manipulation of input on iOS and iPadOS devices, potentially compromising sensitive data or operational integrity. Sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure that rely on Apple mobile devices for secure communications and operations are at higher risk. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could inject commands to exfiltrate data, install malware, or disrupt workflows without user consent. The requirement for privileged network access limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments with less secure internal networks or where attackers have gained footholds. The integrity impact could cascade into broader security incidents if attackers leverage injected keystrokes to escalate privileges or bypass security controls. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future targeted attacks. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using iOS/iPadOS devices connected to corporate networks should be particularly vigilant. Failure to patch could expose European enterprises to espionage, data breaches, or operational disruptions.

1. Immediately apply the security updates released by Apple in iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, and macOS Sonoma 14.4 to all affected devices. 2. Enforce strict network segmentation and monitoring to limit privileged network access and detect anomalous device spoofing or unusual input device behavior. 3. Implement network-level controls such as 802.1X authentication and encrypted Wi-Fi to reduce the risk of attackers gaining privileged network positions. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring input device activity and alerting on suspicious keystroke injection patterns. 5. Educate users and administrators about the risks of connecting to untrusted networks and the importance of applying timely updates. 6. Review and harden device management policies to restrict installation of unauthorized profiles or peripheral devices. 7. Conduct regular security audits and penetration tests focusing on network access controls and device spoofing scenarios. 8. Consider deploying mobile threat defense solutions that can detect and mitigate device spoofing and input injection attacks.