CVE-2024-44167 is a path traversal vulnerability (CWE-22) in Apple macOS and related operating systems that allows a malicious application to overwrite arbitrary files on the system. The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation of file paths, enabling an attacker-controlled app to specify file paths outside of intended directories and overwrite critical files. This can compromise system integrity and confidentiality by replacing or corrupting system binaries, configuration files, or user data. The flaw does not require elevated privileges (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as installing or running a malicious app. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple OS versions prior to the patched releases: macOS Ventura 13.7, macOS Sonoma 14.7, macOS Sequoia 15, visionOS 2, iOS 18, and iPadOS 18. Apple addressed the issue by removing the vulnerable code in these updates. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.1, indicating high severity, with attack vector being network (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required, user interaction required, and high impact on confidentiality and integrity but no impact on availability. No known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, but the vulnerability's nature makes it a significant risk if exploited. The vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers to implant persistent malware, disrupt system operations, or exfiltrate sensitive data by overwriting files critical to security or operations.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality and integrity of data on Apple devices. Organizations relying on macOS and related Apple operating systems for critical business functions could face unauthorized file modifications leading to data corruption, loss of trust in system integrity, or potential lateral movement by attackers. Sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and technology that use Apple ecosystems extensively are particularly vulnerable. The ability to overwrite arbitrary files without privileges but with user interaction lowers the bar for exploitation, especially in environments where users install third-party or unvetted applications. This could lead to targeted attacks aiming to compromise sensitive information or disrupt operations. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the high CVSS score and the widespread use of Apple devices in Europe underscore the urgency of mitigation. Failure to patch could result in data breaches, operational disruptions, and reputational damage.

European organizations should immediately prioritize updating all affected Apple devices to the patched versions: macOS Ventura 13.7, macOS Sonoma 14.7, macOS Sequoia 15, visionOS 2, iOS 18, and iPadOS 18. Restricting app installations to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store and enforcing strict application whitelisting policies can reduce the risk of malicious app deployment. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for unusual file system modifications indicative of exploitation attempts. Conduct user awareness training emphasizing the risks of installing untrusted applications and the importance of prompt OS updates. Employ application sandboxing and system integrity protection features native to Apple OS to limit the scope of file overwrites. Regularly audit system and application logs for signs of unauthorized file changes. For organizations with critical infrastructure, consider network segmentation to isolate Apple devices and limit exposure. Finally, maintain an inventory of Apple devices and their OS versions to ensure comprehensive patch management.