CVE-2024-44269 is a logic vulnerability identified in Apple’s macOS and other Apple operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and visionOS. The issue arises from inadequate validation within the shortcuts functionality, which is designed to automate tasks on Apple devices. A malicious application can exploit this flaw by crafting shortcuts that bypass normal access controls, thereby gaining unauthorized access to files that should be restricted. This vulnerability does not require elevated privileges or prior authentication but does require user interaction to trigger the malicious shortcut. The flaw primarily impacts confidentiality, allowing sensitive data exposure without altering or disrupting system integrity or availability. Apple has released patches in macOS Ventura 13.7.1, macOS Sonoma 14.7.1, iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and corresponding versions of watchOS and visionOS to address this issue by implementing improved checks in the shortcuts mechanism. The CVSS v3.1 score is 5.5, reflecting a medium severity due to local attack vector, low complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction needed. No exploits have been observed in the wild to date, indicating limited active exploitation but a potential risk if weaponized. The vulnerability affects all unspecified versions prior to the patched releases, making timely updates critical for affected users.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-44269 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information stored on Apple devices. This could include corporate documents, personal data, or intellectual property accessible via the shortcuts feature. Since the vulnerability requires local access and user interaction, the risk is higher in environments where users may install untrusted applications or open unverified shortcuts, such as in BYOD scenarios or less controlled endpoint environments. Confidentiality breaches could lead to data privacy violations under GDPR, reputational damage, and potential regulatory penalties. The lack of impact on integrity and availability limits the scope to data leakage rather than system disruption. However, targeted attacks leveraging social engineering to trick users into running malicious shortcuts could facilitate espionage or insider threat scenarios. Organizations relying heavily on Apple ecosystems, especially in sectors like finance, technology, and government, may face increased risk. The absence of known exploits suggests a window of opportunity for defenders to patch and educate users before widespread exploitation occurs.

To mitigate CVE-2024-44269, European organizations should prioritize deploying the latest Apple security updates: macOS Ventura 13.7.1, macOS Sonoma 14.7.1, iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, watchOS 11.1, and visionOS 2.1. Patch management processes must ensure all Apple devices are updated promptly. Additionally, organizations should enforce strict application control policies to prevent installation of untrusted or unsigned apps that could deliver malicious shortcuts. User education is critical to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks that prompt execution of malicious shortcuts. Implement endpoint security solutions capable of monitoring and restricting shortcut execution or suspicious automation activities. Where possible, restrict the use of shortcuts to trusted workflows and audit shortcut permissions regularly. For managed Apple devices, leverage Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools to enforce security policies and restrict shortcut capabilities. Finally, monitor for unusual file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.