CVE-2024-23288 is a vulnerability identified in Apple tvOS and other Apple operating systems (iOS, iPadOS, macOS Sonoma, watchOS) that allows an application to elevate its privileges improperly. The root cause is an access control weakness (CWE-266) where an app can bypass intended privilege boundaries without requiring user interaction or prior authentication. This flaw enables an attacker to gain higher-level privileges than intended, potentially leading to full system compromise, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of system settings, or disruption of system availability. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions prior to the patched releases: tvOS 17.4, iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, macOS Sonoma 14.4, and watchOS 10.4. Apple mitigated the issue by removing the vulnerable code in these updates. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.4 reflects a high severity due to the local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the potential for exploitation remains significant given the severity and ease of exploitation. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where Apple devices are used for sensitive operations or where apps from less trusted sources might be installed.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk, especially in sectors relying on Apple ecosystems for business operations, such as media, education, healthcare, and government. The ability for an app to escalate privileges without user interaction or authentication could lead to unauthorized access to confidential information, disruption of services, and potential lateral movement within networks. Organizations using Apple TV devices for digital signage, conferencing, or media distribution could see these devices compromised, potentially serving as entry points for broader network attacks. The impact extends to user privacy, data integrity, and system availability. Given the high adoption rates of Apple products in Europe, failure to patch could result in widespread exposure. Additionally, the vulnerability could be exploited in targeted attacks against high-value targets or supply chain attacks leveraging compromised apps. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the risk of future exploitation remains high.

European organizations should immediately deploy the security updates released by Apple: tvOS 17.4, iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, macOS Sonoma 14.4, and watchOS 10.4. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict app installation policies, limiting installations to apps from trusted sources such as the official Apple App Store. Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to control app permissions and monitor device compliance. Conduct regular audits of Apple devices to detect unauthorized or suspicious applications. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted apps and the importance of timely updates. Network segmentation can help contain potential compromises originating from Apple devices. For environments using Apple TV devices, consider restricting network access and monitoring for anomalous behavior. Finally, maintain up-to-date inventories of Apple devices and ensure rapid deployment of future security patches.