CVE-2024-40799 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability classified under CWE-125 that affects Apple’s iOS, iPadOS, macOS (Monterey, Ventura, Sonoma), tvOS, visionOS, and watchOS platforms. The root cause is insufficient input validation when processing certain file types, allowing a maliciously crafted file to trigger an out-of-bounds read operation. This leads to unexpected application termination, effectively causing a denial-of-service condition. The vulnerability requires an attacker to convince a user to open or process a specially crafted file, meaning user interaction is necessary. No elevated privileges or authentication are required to exploit this flaw, but the attack vector is local or via file sharing. Apple has released patches in iOS 16.7.9, iOS 17.6, and corresponding OS updates to address this issue by improving input validation and bounds checking. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.1 (high), reflecting high impact on confidentiality and availability, with low attack complexity but requiring user interaction. No known active exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks or malware campaigns to disrupt applications or exfiltrate data through side effects of memory corruption.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-40799 is denial of service through unexpected app termination, which can disrupt user productivity and critical application availability on affected Apple devices. The out-of-bounds read may also expose sensitive memory contents, posing confidentiality risks. Organizations relying heavily on Apple ecosystems for mobile, desktop, or IoT operations could face operational disruptions if attackers deliver malicious files via email, messaging, or file sharing platforms. This could affect enterprise environments, government agencies, and critical infrastructure sectors using Apple devices. Although exploitation requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering could facilitate attacks. The vulnerability could also be chained with other exploits for more severe compromise. Unpatched devices remain vulnerable to targeted attacks, potentially impacting data confidentiality and system stability.

Organizations and users should promptly apply the security updates released by Apple for iOS 16.7.9, iOS 17.6, iPadOS 16.7.9, macOS Monterey 12.7.6, Ventura 13.6.8, Sonoma 14.6, tvOS 17.6, visionOS 1.3, and watchOS 10.6. Beyond patching, implement strict file handling policies to limit opening files from untrusted or unknown sources. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous file processing behaviors. Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files, especially from email attachments or messaging apps. Use network-level controls to block or quarantine potentially malicious files before reaching endpoints. Monitor application crash logs and unusual app terminations as potential indicators of exploitation attempts. For high-security environments, consider restricting file types that can be processed or opened by vulnerable applications until patches are applied.