CVE-2024-44165 is a logic flaw in the network stack of Apple operating systems that causes network traffic to leak outside of VPN tunnels. VPNs are designed to encapsulate and encrypt network traffic, ensuring confidentiality and integrity by routing data through secure tunnels. This vulnerability arises from insufficient validation checks in the routing or network interface logic, allowing certain packets to bypass the VPN tunnel and be sent over the regular network interface unencrypted. Affected systems include macOS Ventura 13.7, macOS Sonoma 14.7, macOS Sequoia 15, iOS 17.7 and later, iPadOS 17.7 and later, and visionOS 2. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.5 (high), reflecting the network vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), high confidentiality impact (C:H), no integrity impact (I:N), and no availability impact (A:N). Exploitation does not require authentication or user interaction, making it easier for attackers to leverage. The vulnerability could expose sensitive data such as credentials, private communications, or corporate information to interception by attackers on the local network or internet. Apple has fixed the issue by implementing improved logic checks to ensure all traffic is properly routed through the VPN tunnel. No known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, but the potential for data leakage is significant, especially for organizations relying on VPNs for secure remote access or inter-site communications. This vulnerability highlights the importance of timely patching and validating VPN configurations on Apple devices.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality of sensitive communications conducted over VPNs on Apple devices. Many enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure operators in Europe use Apple hardware and software for remote work and secure communications. If network traffic leaks outside the VPN tunnel, attackers on the same network or intermediate networks could intercept unencrypted data, leading to exposure of intellectual property, personal data protected under GDPR, or confidential business information. This could result in regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and operational disruptions. The vulnerability does not affect integrity or availability directly but undermines trust in VPN security. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology, which heavily rely on VPNs for secure remote access, are particularly vulnerable. The risk is exacerbated in environments where Apple devices are prevalent and where VPN usage is mandatory for accessing internal resources. Failure to patch promptly could lead to targeted espionage or data theft campaigns. Additionally, the vulnerability could impact multinational companies with European offices using Apple devices, increasing the attack surface across borders.

European organizations should immediately deploy the latest Apple OS updates that address CVE-2024-44165, including macOS Ventura 13.7, macOS Sonoma 14.7, macOS Sequoia 15, iOS 17.7 and later, iPadOS 17.7 and later, and visionOS 2. IT teams must verify that all Apple devices connecting to corporate VPNs are updated to these patched versions. Network administrators should audit VPN configurations to ensure that all traffic is forced through the VPN tunnel without exceptions. Implement network segmentation and zero-trust principles to limit exposure if traffic leakage occurs. Deploy network monitoring tools capable of detecting anomalous traffic patterns that indicate VPN bypass or leakage. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor Apple devices for suspicious network activity. Educate users about the importance of installing OS updates promptly. For highly sensitive environments, consider additional encryption layers at the application level to protect data even if VPN leaks occur. Regularly review and test VPN tunnel integrity using penetration testing or red team exercises focused on traffic leakage. Coordinate with Apple support for any further guidance or updates. Finally, ensure incident response plans include scenarios for VPN traffic leakage and data exposure.