CVE-2024-44309 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in Apple Safari, primarily affecting Intel-based Mac systems. The root cause is a cookie management issue related to improper state management when processing maliciously crafted web content. This flaw allows an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of the victim's browser session. Such execution can lead to theft of sensitive information, session hijacking, or manipulation of browser behavior. The vulnerability was reported to Apple, which addressed it by improving state management in Safari 18.1.1 and corresponding updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS Sequoia, and visionOS. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as visiting a maliciously crafted webpage, but does not require any privileges or prior authentication. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 (Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation), a common vector for XSS attacks. Although Apple is aware of reports suggesting active exploitation on Intel-based Macs, no confirmed widespread exploits have been documented. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.3, indicating a medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction needed, and impacts to confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This vulnerability underscores the importance of timely patching and cautious browsing behavior.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk of client-side compromise through Safari browsers on Intel-based Macs. Potential impacts include unauthorized access to sensitive data such as cookies, session tokens, or personal information, which can facilitate further attacks like account takeover or data exfiltration. The integrity of web sessions can be compromised, allowing attackers to manipulate displayed content or perform actions on behalf of the user. Availability impacts may arise if malicious scripts disrupt browser functionality. Organizations relying on Safari for critical web applications or internal portals are particularly vulnerable. Given the active exploitation reports, targeted attacks against high-value European entities—such as financial institutions, government agencies, and technology firms—are plausible. The risk is heightened in sectors with high Apple device usage and where users may be less vigilant about phishing or malicious links. The vulnerability could also be leveraged as an initial foothold in multi-stage attacks, increasing overall organizational risk.

1. Immediately apply the security updates released by Apple: Safari 18.1.1, iOS 17.7.2 and 18.1.1, iPadOS 17.7.2 and 18.1.1, macOS Sequoia 15.1.1, and visionOS 2.1.1. 2. Enforce organizational policies to ensure all Mac users update their systems promptly, leveraging Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools to monitor and enforce compliance. 3. Educate users about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and clicking on suspicious links, emphasizing the need for caution with unknown web content. 4. Implement Content Security Policy (CSP) headers on internal web applications to reduce the risk of XSS exploitation. 5. Use browser security extensions or enterprise browser configurations that limit script execution or isolate browsing sessions. 6. Monitor network traffic and endpoint logs for unusual activity that may indicate exploitation attempts. 7. Consider deploying web filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains. 8. Regularly review and update incident response plans to include scenarios involving browser-based XSS attacks.