CVE-2024-27872 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS related to improper validation of symbolic links (CWE-61). This flaw allows an application with limited privileges (local access and low privileges) to bypass intended access controls and read protected user data. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and does not affect data integrity or system availability, but it compromises confidentiality by enabling unauthorized data access. The root cause lies in the operating system's failure to properly validate symlinks, which can be manipulated to redirect file access to sensitive locations. Apple addressed this issue in macOS Sonoma 14.6 by enhancing the validation mechanisms for symbolic links, thereby preventing unauthorized data access. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium severity), reflecting the local attack vector, low complexity, required privileges, and high confidentiality impact. No public exploits have been reported, but the vulnerability poses a risk to any macOS user with local app installation capabilities. Organizations relying on macOS devices should apply the patch promptly to mitigate potential data leakage risks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability primarily threatens the confidentiality of sensitive user data on macOS devices. Enterprises and government agencies using macOS in their environments could face unauthorized data exposure if an attacker gains local access and installs a malicious app exploiting this flaw. Although the attack requires local access and limited privileges, insider threats or compromised endpoints could leverage this vulnerability to escalate data access. The impact is heightened in sectors with stringent data protection requirements such as finance, healthcare, and public administration. Data breaches resulting from this vulnerability could lead to regulatory penalties under GDPR and damage organizational reputation. Since the vulnerability does not affect integrity or availability, operational disruption is unlikely, but the confidentiality breach risk necessitates urgent mitigation.

European organizations should immediately verify macOS versions in use and prioritize upgrading all affected systems to macOS Sonoma 14.6 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. Restrict local app installation privileges to trusted users and enforce strict endpoint security policies to minimize the risk of malicious app deployment. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious local activity involving symlink manipulation. Conduct regular audits of user permissions and installed applications to detect unauthorized software. Additionally, educate users about the risks of installing untrusted applications and maintain robust physical security controls to prevent unauthorized local access. For organizations with remote macOS users, ensure secure VPN and device management policies to reduce exposure. Finally, monitor Apple security advisories for any updates or emerging exploit reports related to this CVE.