CVE-2024-44253 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application with limited privileges to modify protected parts of the file system. The root cause is inadequate authorization checks (CWE-863), which fail to properly restrict access to sensitive filesystem areas. This flaw enables a local attacker or malicious app to escalate privileges by altering system files or configurations that should be protected, thereby compromising system integrity. The vulnerability does not affect confidentiality or availability directly but can lead to persistent unauthorized changes that undermine system trustworthiness. It requires local access with low privileges (PR:L) but no user interaction (UI:N), and the attack complexity is low (AC:L), meaning exploitation is feasible if an attacker gains initial foothold. The vulnerability affects unspecified macOS versions prior to the patched releases Ventura 13.7.1 and Sonoma 14.7.1, where Apple has implemented improved authorization checks to mitigate the issue. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability’s characteristics suggest it could be leveraged in targeted attacks or by malicious insiders to gain unauthorized control over system files. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium severity), reflecting the impact on integrity without affecting confidentiality or availability. The vulnerability’s scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is confined to the vulnerable component without affecting other system components.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the integrity of macOS systems, particularly in environments where users can install or run untrusted applications. Unauthorized modification of protected filesystem areas can lead to persistent malware installation, tampering with security configurations, or disabling security controls, which may facilitate further attacks or data breaches. Organizations relying on macOS for critical operations, development, or creative workflows could face operational disruptions or compromise of sensitive processes. The absence of confidentiality or availability impact reduces the risk of data leakage or denial of service, but integrity violations can undermine trust in system security and complicate incident response. Given the medium severity and local privilege requirements, the threat is more acute in organizations with lax endpoint controls or where insider threats are a concern. European entities with high macOS usage, such as technology firms, creative industries, and educational institutions, should be particularly vigilant.

European organizations should immediately verify macOS versions in use and prioritize upgrading to macOS Ventura 13.7.1, Sonoma 14.7.1, or later patched releases. Implement strict application control policies to limit installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications, reducing the risk of local exploitation. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring unauthorized filesystem modifications and privilege escalation attempts. Enforce the principle of least privilege for user accounts to minimize the ability of apps to gain elevated access. Regularly audit system integrity using file integrity monitoring tools to detect unauthorized changes to protected filesystem areas. Educate users about the risks of installing unverified software and maintain robust patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates. Additionally, consider network segmentation and access controls to limit lateral movement if a macOS device is compromised. Finally, monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence sources for any emerging exploit activity related to this vulnerability.