CVE-2024-23278 is a vulnerability identified in Apple tvOS that allows an application to escape its sandbox environment. The sandbox is a critical security mechanism that restricts apps from accessing system resources or other apps’ data, thereby enforcing process isolation. This vulnerability arises due to insufficient checks in the sandbox enforcement, potentially allowing a malicious or compromised app to break out of these restrictions. The issue affects multiple Apple operating systems, including macOS Ventura 13.6.5, macOS Sonoma 14.4, iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, watchOS 10.4, iOS 16.7.6, iPadOS 16.7.6, and tvOS 17.4, indicating a broad impact across Apple’s ecosystem. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-94, which relates to improper control of code generation, suggesting that the flaw may involve unsafe code execution or validation processes. The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.7 (High) indicates that the vulnerability can be exploited with low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction, but requires local access (AV:L). The impact on confidentiality and integrity is high, while availability is not affected. Apple has addressed the issue by implementing improved checks in the sandbox enforcement mechanisms. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the potential for sandbox escape makes this a critical concern for environments relying on Apple TV and other affected devices. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, escalate privileges, or execute arbitrary code outside the app’s restricted environment, undermining system security.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially in sectors where Apple TV devices are used for corporate communications, digital signage, or as part of unified communication systems. A successful sandbox escape could allow attackers to access confidential corporate data, intercept communications, or manipulate system configurations. This could lead to data breaches, intellectual property theft, or disruption of services. The impact is heightened in environments where Apple devices are integrated with other enterprise systems or where sensitive information is processed or displayed. Additionally, organizations in regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, and government may face compliance violations if such vulnerabilities are exploited. The lack of required user interaction and privileges lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing the threat level. Although no exploits are currently known, the vulnerability’s presence in multiple Apple OS versions means that unpatched devices remain at risk. This could also facilitate lateral movement within networks if attackers gain initial footholds on Apple devices.

European organizations should immediately prioritize deploying the security updates released by Apple for all affected operating systems, including tvOS 17.4 and the corresponding patches for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict app installation policies, limiting installations to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store and employing Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to control app permissions and monitor device compliance. Network segmentation should be applied to isolate Apple TV devices from critical infrastructure to reduce the risk of lateral movement. Continuous monitoring for anomalous app behavior or unexpected network activity originating from Apple devices can help detect exploitation attempts early. Security teams should also review and tighten sandbox policies where possible and educate users about the risks of installing untrusted apps. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing focusing on Apple device environments can help identify residual risks. Finally, organizations should maintain an inventory of Apple devices and ensure timely update cycles to minimize exposure.