CVE-2024-54474 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that permits a local application to access sensitive user data without proper authorization. The root cause stems from insufficient security checks within the operating system that allowed apps with limited privileges to bypass intended data access restrictions. Apple addressed this issue by implementing improved validation mechanisms in macOS Sequoia 15.2, Ventura 13.7.2, and Sonoma 14.7.2. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 5.5, indicating medium severity. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring low privileges (PR:L) but no user interaction (UI:N), and the scope remains unchanged (S:U). The primary impact is on confidentiality (C:H), with no impact on integrity or availability. This means an attacker with local access could potentially extract sensitive user data without altering system state or availability. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, suggesting limited active exploitation currently. However, the vulnerability highlights the risk posed by malicious or compromised applications running on macOS systems, especially in environments where local access controls may be weak or where users install untrusted software. The affected versions are unspecified but include all versions prior to the fixed releases mentioned. The vulnerability underscores the importance of strict app sandboxing and access control enforcement within macOS to protect user data privacy.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-54474 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive user data on macOS devices. This could include personal information, credentials, or other confidential data stored or accessible by applications. Organizations with a significant macOS user base, such as those in technology, finance, or research sectors, may face increased risk of data breaches or insider threats exploiting this vulnerability. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation, but insider threats or compromised endpoints could leverage this flaw to escalate data access. The lack of impact on integrity and availability reduces the risk of system disruption but does not mitigate the confidentiality concerns. Given the medium severity and absence of known exploits, the immediate risk is moderate but could increase if exploit code becomes available. European data protection regulations such as GDPR heighten the consequences of data exposure, potentially leading to regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Therefore, timely patching and monitoring are critical to minimize impact.

1. Deploy the security updates provided by Apple for macOS Sequoia 15.2, Ventura 13.7.2, and Sonoma 14.7.2 as soon as possible to ensure the vulnerability is remediated. 2. Enforce strict application installation policies to limit software sources to trusted vendors and the Apple App Store, reducing the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. 3. Implement endpoint security solutions that monitor and restrict application behavior, particularly those attempting to access sensitive user data. 4. Conduct regular audits of installed applications and user permissions to detect unauthorized or suspicious software. 5. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted applications and the importance of applying system updates promptly. 6. Use macOS built-in security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and sandboxing to limit application privileges. 7. For organizations with sensitive data, consider additional data encryption and access controls at the application level to reduce exposure. 8. Monitor for any emerging exploit reports or indicators of compromise related to this CVE to respond quickly if exploitation attempts arise.