CVE-2024-27795 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS related to a permissions flaw in camera extensions. Specifically, a camera extension may be able to access the internet without appropriate restrictions, which violates expected security boundaries. This issue stems from insufficient permission enforcement (classified under CWE-281: Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer or similar permission control issues). The vulnerability was addressed in macOS Sequoia 15 by implementing additional restrictions that prevent camera extensions from making unauthorized network connections. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.5, indicating a high severity level. The vector string (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N) shows that the attack can be performed remotely over the network with low attack complexity, requires no privileges or user interaction, and impacts confidentiality significantly, but does not affect integrity or availability. Although no exploits have been reported in the wild, the ability for a camera extension to communicate externally could allow attackers to exfiltrate sensitive data or perform command and control communications covertly. The vulnerability affects unspecified macOS versions prior to Sequoia 15, so all users running older versions are potentially vulnerable. The fix involves updating to the latest macOS version where the permissions issue is corrected. This vulnerability highlights the importance of strict permission controls on device extensions that have access to sensitive hardware components like cameras.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to data confidentiality. Camera extensions with unauthorized internet access could be exploited to leak sensitive information or facilitate covert communications, potentially bypassing network security controls. Organizations relying on macOS devices, especially in sectors like finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, could face data breaches or espionage risks. The lack of required privileges or user interaction lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing the threat surface. Additionally, the vulnerability could undermine trust in endpoint security and complicate compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR, which mandates strict controls over personal data handling. The impact is primarily on confidentiality, with no direct effect on system integrity or availability, but the indirect consequences of data leakage could be severe. European enterprises using macOS devices with camera extensions should consider this vulnerability a priority for patching and monitoring.

1. Immediately update all macOS devices to macOS Sequoia 15 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. 2. Audit and review all installed camera extensions to identify any that may have unnecessary internet access permissions or exhibit suspicious network activity. 3. Implement network monitoring and endpoint detection solutions to detect unusual outbound connections originating from camera extensions or related processes. 4. Restrict network access for camera extensions using application-layer firewalls or endpoint security policies to limit their ability to communicate externally. 5. Educate users and IT staff about the risks associated with installing untrusted camera extensions and enforce strict application whitelisting policies. 6. Regularly review and update security policies regarding device extensions and hardware access permissions to prevent similar issues. 7. Coordinate with Apple support channels for any additional guidance or patches related to this vulnerability.