CVE-2024-44309 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in Apple Safari, primarily impacting Intel-based Mac systems but also addressed in iOS, iPadOS, macOS Sequoia, and visionOS versions. 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 security context of the victim’s browser session. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79, indicating a classic XSS scenario. Exploitation requires the victim to interact with malicious content, such as visiting a specially crafted webpage, but does not require any prior authentication or elevated privileges. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.3 (medium), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction needed, and impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Apple has released patches in Safari 18.1.1 and corresponding OS updates (iOS 17.7.2, iPadOS 17.7.2, macOS Sequoia 15.1.1, iOS 18.1.1, iPadOS 18.1.1, visionOS 2.1.1) to remediate the issue. Although no public exploit code or widespread exploitation has been confirmed, Apple is aware of reports indicating potential active exploitation on Intel-based Macs. This vulnerability could be leveraged to steal cookies, session tokens, or execute malicious scripts that compromise user data or perform unauthorized actions within the browser context.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially for those relying on Apple Safari on Intel-based Macs and other Apple devices. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information such as session cookies, personal data, or corporate credentials, potentially enabling further attacks like account takeover or lateral movement within networks. The integrity of user sessions and data confidentiality are at risk, and availability could be impacted if malicious scripts disrupt browser functionality. Organizations in sectors with high regulatory requirements for data protection (e.g., finance, healthcare, government) face increased compliance risks if user data is compromised. Given the widespread use of Apple devices in Europe, especially in corporate and creative industries, the threat surface is considerable. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to lure victims to malicious sites, increasing the attack feasibility. Failure to patch promptly could result in targeted attacks exploiting this vulnerability to gain footholds or exfiltrate data.

European organizations should immediately verify that all Apple devices, particularly Intel-based Macs, are updated to the patched Safari version 18.1.1 or later and corresponding OS updates (iOS 17.7.2, iPadOS 17.7.2, macOS Sequoia 15.1.1, iOS 18.1.1, iPadOS 18.1.1, visionOS 2.1.1). Enforce centralized patch management policies to ensure timely deployment of these updates. Implement network-level protections such as web filtering to block access to known malicious sites and use endpoint security solutions capable of detecting suspicious browser behavior. Educate users on the risks of interacting with untrusted web content and phishing attempts that could trigger exploitation. Consider deploying Content Security Policy (CSP) headers on internal web applications to reduce the impact of XSS attacks. Monitor browser logs and network traffic for unusual activity indicative of script injection or session hijacking. For high-risk environments, restrict the use of Safari or enforce the use of browsers with additional security controls until patches are applied. Regularly review and update incident response plans to include scenarios involving browser-based XSS attacks.