CVE-2024-40814 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS that stems from a downgrade issue related to code-signing restrictions. Code-signing is a security mechanism that ensures only trusted applications run with certain privileges, including access to privacy-sensitive data. This vulnerability allows a malicious or compromised app to bypass the Privacy preferences pane, which normally restricts app access to sensitive resources such as camera, microphone, location, and files. The flaw arises because the system fails to enforce updated code-signing restrictions properly, allowing an attacker to downgrade or circumvent these checks. The vulnerability was addressed by Apple in macOS Sonoma 14.6 through additional code-signing restrictions that prevent such bypasses. The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.1 indicates a high-severity issue with local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requiring user interaction (UI:R). The impact includes high confidentiality and integrity loss, as unauthorized apps can access or manipulate sensitive user data without proper consent. No known exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk if exploited. This vulnerability is categorized under CWE-285 (Improper Authorization), highlighting that the system fails to enforce correct access control policies. The affected versions are unspecified but include macOS versions prior to 14.6. Organizations relying on macOS devices should prioritize patching and review application permissions and code-signing policies to mitigate risk.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk to the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data accessed via macOS devices. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that use Apple hardware could face unauthorized data exposure or manipulation. The bypass of Privacy preferences could allow malicious apps to access cameras, microphones, location data, or files without user consent, leading to privacy violations and potential regulatory non-compliance under GDPR. The requirement for local access and user interaction means insider threats or social engineering attacks could exploit this vulnerability. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits rapidly. The impact on availability is low, but the breach of confidentiality and integrity can cause reputational damage, legal penalties, and operational disruptions. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using macOS devices are particularly vulnerable if endpoint security controls are insufficient.

1. Immediately update all macOS devices to macOS Sonoma 14.6 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. 2. Enforce strict application whitelisting and code-signing policies to ensure only trusted and verified apps can run, reducing the risk of malicious app execution. 3. Conduct regular audits of Privacy preferences and app permissions to detect and revoke unauthorized access. 4. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring unusual app behaviors related to privacy resource access. 5. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted applications and the importance of cautious user interaction to prevent social engineering exploitation. 6. For organizations with sensitive data, consider deploying Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to centrally manage and enforce security policies on macOS devices. 7. Monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit reports related to this CVE. 8. Review and strengthen internal policies regarding local access to devices, especially in shared or public environments.