CVE-2024-44151 is a permissions-related vulnerability in Apple macOS that allows an application with limited privileges to modify protected parts of the file system. The root cause is an incorrect permissions configuration that fails to adequately restrict access to sensitive system files or directories. This flaw could enable an attacker or malicious app to alter system files, potentially undermining system integrity and security controls. The vulnerability affects macOS versions prior to Sequoia 15, Sonoma 14.7, and Ventura 13.7, where Apple has implemented additional restrictions to mitigate this issue. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.5, reflecting medium severity, with an attack vector over the network, low attack complexity, requiring privileges but no user interaction, and impacting integrity but not confidentiality or availability. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-276, indicating incorrect default permissions. While no exploits are currently known in the wild, the flaw presents a risk if an attacker gains low-level privileges on the system, enabling unauthorized modification of protected file system areas.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-44151 is on the integrity of affected macOS systems. An attacker or malicious application with low-level privileges could modify protected system files or directories, potentially leading to unauthorized changes in system behavior, persistence mechanisms, or security controls. This could facilitate further attacks such as privilege escalation, malware persistence, or bypassing security mechanisms. Although confidentiality and availability are not directly impacted, the integrity compromise could indirectly lead to broader security breaches. Organizations relying on macOS devices, especially in sensitive environments, face risks of system compromise and loss of trust in device integrity. The vulnerability could also affect managed environments where apps are distributed internally or via third-party sources, increasing the risk of supply chain or insider threats.

To mitigate CVE-2024-44151, organizations should promptly apply the security updates provided by Apple in macOS Sequoia 15, Sonoma 14.7, and Ventura 13.7 or later. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application control policies to limit the installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications. Employing endpoint protection solutions that monitor file system integrity and detect unauthorized modifications can provide additional defense layers. Regular auditing of file system permissions and configurations can help identify and remediate misconfigurations before exploitation. For environments with sensitive data or critical operations, consider implementing macOS security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and Mandatory Access Controls (MAC) to further restrict app capabilities. Finally, educating users about the risks of installing untrusted software and maintaining least privilege principles reduces the attack surface.