CVE-2024-44186 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application to bypass existing sandbox restrictions and access protected user data without proper authorization. The root cause is an access control issue where sandboxing mechanisms fail to fully isolate app processes from sensitive user information. This vulnerability affects confidentiality, as unauthorized apps with limited privileges (local access and low complexity to exploit) can read protected data, potentially exposing personal or corporate information. The vulnerability does not impact data integrity or system availability. It requires the attacker to have local privileges on the system but does not require user interaction, increasing the risk if a malicious app is installed or executed. Apple addressed this issue in macOS Sequoia 15 by implementing additional sandbox restrictions that tighten access controls around user data. The CVSS v3.1 score is 5.5 (medium), reflecting the moderate risk due to the need for local privileges and the absence of integrity or availability impacts. No public exploits or active exploitation have been reported, indicating that the threat is currently theoretical but should be treated seriously given the sensitivity of user data involved.

For European organizations, especially those in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government that rely on macOS devices, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized data disclosure. Confidential user data could be exposed to malicious local applications, potentially leading to privacy violations, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR), and reputational damage. While the vulnerability does not allow modification or disruption of data or services, the confidentiality breach alone can have significant consequences. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using macOS devices are particularly vulnerable if endpoint security is insufficient. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits once the vulnerability details are widely known.

1. Upgrade all macOS devices to macOS Sequoia 15 or later as soon as possible to apply the patch that enforces stricter sandbox restrictions. 2. Audit installed applications and remove or restrict apps that do not require access to sensitive user data. 3. Implement strict endpoint security controls, including application whitelisting and monitoring for unusual app behavior. 4. Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies and ensure timely patch deployment. 5. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted applications and the importance of applying system updates promptly. 6. Regularly review sandbox configurations and permissions to minimize the attack surface. 7. Monitor system logs for any suspicious access attempts to protected data.