CVE-2024-23279 is a privacy vulnerability identified in Apple macOS, specifically addressed in macOS Sonoma 14.4. The root cause lies in insufficient redaction of private data within system log entries, which allows an application with limited privileges (local access with low privileges) to potentially access sensitive user data that should otherwise be protected. This vulnerability does not require user interaction, making it easier to exploit once local access is obtained, but it does require at least some level of privilege (PR:L). The CVSS 3.1 score of 5.3 reflects a medium severity, considering the attack vector is local (AV:L), the attack complexity is low (AC:L), privileges required are low, and no user interaction is needed. The scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is limited to the vulnerable component. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a limited degree (C:L/I:L/A:L), as sensitive data exposure could lead to further attacks or privacy violations. Apple has addressed this issue by enhancing the redaction mechanisms in log entries to prevent leakage of sensitive information. No public exploits have been reported, indicating limited active exploitation currently. However, the presence of sensitive data in logs can be a significant privacy risk, especially in environments where multiple users or apps coexist. Organizations relying on macOS devices should be aware of this vulnerability and apply the patch in macOS Sonoma 14.4 or later as soon as possible.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-23279 is the potential unauthorized access to sensitive user data via local applications exploiting insufficient log redaction. This can lead to privacy violations, data leakage, and potential escalation of privileges if sensitive information is used to facilitate further attacks. Confidentiality is the most affected aspect, but integrity and availability could also be impacted if attackers manipulate or disrupt logging mechanisms. Organizations with macOS endpoints, especially those handling sensitive or regulated data (e.g., GDPR-protected personal data), face increased compliance risks and potential reputational damage. The vulnerability could be exploited by insider threats or malware that gains local access with limited privileges. Given the medium severity and absence of known exploits, the immediate risk is moderate, but the threat landscape could evolve. European entities in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, which often use Apple devices, should prioritize mitigation to avoid data breaches and regulatory penalties.

1. Immediately update all macOS devices to version Sonoma 14.4 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. 2. Enforce strict application permission policies to limit the ability of apps to access logs or sensitive system resources. 3. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring unusual local app behaviors, especially those accessing logs or sensitive files. 4. Regularly audit and review system logs for signs of unauthorized access or data leakage attempts. 5. Restrict local user privileges where possible to minimize the attack surface, employing the principle of least privilege. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of installing untrusted applications that could exploit local vulnerabilities. 7. For organizations with sensitive data, consider additional data encryption and access controls at the OS and application levels to reduce impact if logs are compromised. 8. Maintain an up-to-date inventory of macOS devices and ensure patch management processes are robust and timely.