CVE-2024-23294 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that arises from improper input validation (CWE-20), allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code by supplying maliciously crafted input to the affected system. The vulnerability was addressed by Apple through the removal of the vulnerable code in macOS Sonoma 14.4. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity, with the vector indicating local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requiring user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). This means that if exploited, an attacker could fully compromise the affected system. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of macOS prior to 14.4, so all users running earlier versions are potentially at risk. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the nature of the vulnerability suggests that local users or malicious actors who can trick users into processing malicious input could leverage this flaw. The root cause is improper input validation, which can lead to memory corruption or similar conditions enabling code execution. This vulnerability underscores the importance of input sanitization and secure coding practices in operating system components that handle user or external data.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-23294 can be significant, especially for those relying on macOS systems in critical environments such as finance, government, healthcare, and research. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or deploy further malware. Since the vulnerability requires local access and user interaction, insider threats or social engineering attacks could be vectors. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that data breaches, operational downtime, and reputational damage are possible. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using macOS devices are particularly at risk if devices are not promptly updated. Additionally, the lack of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive mitigation before widespread attacks occur.

1. Immediately update all macOS devices to Sonoma 14.4 or later, where the vulnerable code has been removed. 2. Enforce strict local user access controls to limit the ability of unprivileged users to execute potentially malicious input processing. 3. Educate users about the risks of processing untrusted input and the importance of cautious interaction with unknown files or links. 4. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for anomalous behavior related to input processing and code execution attempts. 5. Regularly audit and restrict software installations and execution privileges on macOS devices to reduce the attack surface. 6. Employ network segmentation and zero-trust principles to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 7. Monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit activity related to this CVE.