CVE-2024-44283 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that arises from an out-of-bounds read condition during the parsing of specially crafted files. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-125, which involves improper bounds checking leading to memory access errors. When a malicious file is processed by an application on macOS, the lack of adequate bounds validation can cause the application to read memory outside the intended buffer, resulting in an unexpected termination or crash of the app. This type of flaw primarily leads to denial of service (DoS) conditions rather than data compromise. The vulnerability affects macOS versions before Ventura 13.7.1 and Sonoma 14.7.1, where Apple has implemented improved bounds checking to mitigate the issue. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.5, indicating a medium severity level, with an attack vector of network (remote), low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction needed (opening or processing the malicious file). The scope is unchanged, meaning the impact is limited to the vulnerable application and does not extend beyond it. There are no reports of active exploitation in the wild, but the potential for denial of service makes it a concern for availability. The vulnerability does not affect confidentiality or integrity, as it does not allow code execution or data leakage. However, repeated crashes could disrupt business operations or critical workflows on affected macOS systems.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-44283 is the potential for denial of service through application crashes when malicious files are opened or processed. This can disrupt productivity, especially in environments where macOS devices are integral to daily operations, such as creative industries, software development, and certain government or financial sectors. Although the vulnerability does not allow data theft or system compromise, the unexpected termination of critical applications could lead to operational delays and increased support costs. Organizations relying on macOS for endpoint devices, particularly those handling untrusted files or email attachments, face increased risk. In sectors like healthcare or public administration, where availability is crucial, such disruptions could have more severe consequences. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the medium severity score and ease of triggering the crash via user interaction necessitate prompt remediation to maintain operational stability.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigation measures: 1) Prioritize upgrading all macOS devices to Ventura 13.7.1 or Sonoma 14.7.1 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. 2) Enforce strict policies on handling files from untrusted sources, including disabling automatic file previews in email clients and messaging apps to reduce inadvertent triggering. 3) Utilize endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block malformed files or suspicious file parsing activities. 4) Educate users about the risks of opening files from unknown or untrusted origins, emphasizing caution with email attachments and downloads. 5) Implement application whitelisting or sandboxing to limit the impact of any application crashes and prevent cascading failures. 6) Monitor system and application logs for unusual crashes or patterns that may indicate attempted exploitation. 7) For critical environments, consider network segmentation to isolate macOS devices and limit exposure to malicious files. These measures, combined with timely patching, will reduce the likelihood and impact of exploitation.