CVE-2024-23299 is a sandbox escape vulnerability identified in Apple macOS, where an application running within the sandbox environment can bypass the sandbox restrictions due to insufficient enforcement checks. The sandbox is a critical security mechanism designed to isolate applications and limit their access to system resources and user data. This vulnerability stems from a weakness classified under CWE-250 (Execution with Unnecessary Privileges), indicating that the app can perform actions beyond its intended privilege level. The issue was addressed by Apple through improved sandbox enforcement checks in macOS Sonoma 14.4, Ventura 13.6.5, and Monterey 12.7.4. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.6 reflects a high-severity flaw with the vector AV:L (Local), AC:L (Low complexity), PR:N (No privileges required), UI:R (User interaction required), and Scope changed (S:C), impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a high degree. Exploitation requires a local attacker to convince a user to run a malicious app, which then can escape the sandbox and potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, leading to full system compromise. No public exploits or active exploitation have been reported yet, but the vulnerability presents a significant risk if weaponized.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial threat to the security of macOS endpoints. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification or destruction of critical files, and disruption of system availability. Organizations in sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and technology that rely on macOS devices for daily operations could face data breaches, intellectual property theft, or operational downtime. The sandbox escape could also facilitate lateral movement within networks if attackers gain footholds on multiple devices. Given the high market penetration of Apple devices in countries like Germany, France, the UK, and the Nordics, the risk is pronounced. Additionally, organizations with strict compliance requirements (e.g., GDPR) must consider the potential regulatory consequences of data exposure resulting from exploitation.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should prioritize updating all affected macOS systems to the patched versions: Sonoma 14.4, Ventura 13.6.5, or Monterey 12.7.4. Beyond patching, implement strict application control policies to limit the installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for suspicious sandbox escape behaviors and privilege escalation attempts. Educate users about the risks of running unverified applications and enforce least privilege principles to reduce the impact of potential exploitation. Network segmentation can limit lateral movement if a device is compromised. Regularly audit macOS security configurations and sandbox policies to ensure they adhere to best practices. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans tailored to macOS environments to enable rapid recovery if exploitation occurs.