CVE-2024-44292 is a privacy vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that stems from inadequate redaction of sensitive user data in system log entries. This flaw allows an application running with limited privileges (local access, low privilege) to potentially read sensitive information that should have been protected or redacted in logs. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-922, which relates to improper restriction of sensitive information in logs. The issue was addressed by Apple in macOS Sequoia 15.1 through enhanced private data redaction mechanisms, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data via log inspection. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5, indicating a medium severity level, with the vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N. This means the attack requires local access with low privileges, no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality significantly but does not affect integrity or availability. No exploits have been reported in the wild, suggesting limited active exploitation. The vulnerability primarily threatens confidentiality by exposing sensitive user data to apps that should not have access, potentially leading to privacy breaches or data leakage. The lack of requirement for user interaction increases the risk if a malicious app is installed or present on the system. The affected versions are unspecified but presumably include macOS versions prior to Sequoia 15.1. The patch is integrated into macOS Sequoia 15.1, and users are advised to update accordingly.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-44292 is the potential exposure of sensitive user data on macOS devices. This can lead to privacy violations, data leakage, and compliance issues with regulations such as GDPR, which mandates strict protection of personal data. Confidentiality breaches could undermine trust, lead to reputational damage, and potentially result in regulatory fines. Since the vulnerability requires local access with low privileges, the risk is heightened in environments where endpoint security is weak or where users may inadvertently install untrusted applications. Organizations with macOS-based workstations, especially in sectors handling sensitive information such as finance, healthcare, and government, may face increased risk. The vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, so operational disruption is unlikely. However, the exposure of sensitive data could facilitate further attacks or insider threats if exploited. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the need for prompt remediation.

1. Upgrade all macOS devices to macOS Sequoia 15.1 or later, as this version includes the fix for CVE-2024-44292. 2. Enforce strict application installation policies to prevent unauthorized or untrusted apps from being installed, using Apple’s MDM solutions or endpoint management tools. 3. Implement least privilege principles for user accounts and applications to limit local access capabilities. 4. Monitor system logs and application behavior for unusual access patterns or attempts to read sensitive data. 5. Educate users about the risks of installing unknown or untrusted software, especially on macOS devices. 6. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting suspicious local activities that could exploit this vulnerability. 7. Regularly audit macOS systems for compliance with security policies and patch levels. 8. For highly sensitive environments, consider additional data encryption or sandboxing techniques to protect sensitive information even if accessed improperly.