CVE-2024-44160 is a buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that arises during the processing of maliciously crafted texture files. This flaw is due to inadequate memory handling, which can be exploited to cause unexpected application termination, potentially leading to denial of service or further exploitation to compromise system confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability affects multiple recent macOS versions, specifically Ventura 13.7, Sonoma 14.7, and Sequoia 15, indicating it impacts a broad range of currently supported Apple operating systems. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting a high severity level, with an attack vector classified as local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requiring user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). This means an attacker with local access and the ability to trick a user into processing a malicious texture file could cause significant damage, including app crashes and potentially executing arbitrary code or escalating privileges. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability’s nature and severity warrant urgent attention. The CWE classification is CWE-400, which relates to resource exhaustion or uncontrolled resource consumption, consistent with buffer overflow issues. The vulnerability was reserved in August 2024 and published in September 2024, with Apple having addressed it through improved memory handling in the specified macOS versions. No direct patch links were provided, but updating to the latest macOS releases is the primary remediation.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-44160 can be significant, especially for those relying on Apple macOS devices in their IT infrastructure. The vulnerability can lead to unexpected application crashes, causing disruption to business operations and potential data loss. More critically, the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability suggests that exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or escalate privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise. This poses risks to sensitive data, intellectual property, and critical services. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology, which often use macOS for secure environments or creative workflows, may face operational and reputational damage. Additionally, the requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering could be vectors, increasing the risk of targeted attacks. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits rapidly once the vulnerability is public. The broad range of affected macOS versions means many devices remain vulnerable until patched, increasing the attack surface across European enterprises.

European organizations should implement a multi-layered mitigation strategy: 1) Immediately update all macOS devices to the latest patched versions (Ventura 13.7, Sonoma 14.7, Sequoia 15 or later) to ensure the vulnerability is remediated. 2) Restrict or monitor the processing of texture files from untrusted or unknown sources, especially in applications that handle graphics or media content. 3) Educate users about the risks of opening files from unverified origins to reduce the likelihood of successful social engineering attacks exploiting this vulnerability. 4) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous application crashes or suspicious behavior related to texture processing. 5) Implement application whitelisting and sandboxing for apps that handle texture files to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 6) Regularly audit and inventory macOS devices to ensure compliance with patch management policies. 7) Monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit activity related to this CVE. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling the attack vector (malicious textures) and enhancing detection capabilities specific to this vulnerability.