CVE-2024-54495 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application to modify protected parts of the file system due to flawed permissions logic. The vulnerability arises from improper enforcement of access controls, classified under CWE-863 (Incorrect Authorization). This flaw enables an app, without requiring privileges (PR:N), but with user interaction (UI:R), to alter critical system files or directories that should be protected. The vulnerability impacts system integrity (I:H) but does not compromise confidentiality (C:N) or availability (A:N). The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker needs local access to the system. Apple fixed this issue in macOS Sequoia 15.2 and macOS Sonoma 14.7.2 by improving the permissions logic to prevent unauthorized modifications. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the potential for abuse exists, especially in scenarios where malicious or compromised applications trick users into interaction. The affected versions are unspecified but presumably include all versions prior to the fixed releases. This vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers to maintain persistence, tamper with system files, or undermine system integrity, which could facilitate further attacks or malware deployment.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to the integrity of macOS systems. Unauthorized modification of protected file system areas could allow attackers or malicious applications to implant persistent malware, alter system configurations, or disable security mechanisms. This could lead to prolonged undetected compromises, impacting business operations and data integrity. While confidentiality and availability are not directly affected, the integrity compromise can indirectly lead to data corruption or system instability. Organizations relying on macOS for critical operations, especially in sectors like finance, government, and technology, could face increased risk. The local attack vector and requirement for user interaction limit remote exploitation but insider threats or social engineering attacks could exploit this vulnerability. The lack of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, emphasizing the need for timely patching.

1. Immediately apply the security updates provided by Apple in macOS Sequoia 15.2 and macOS Sonoma 14.7.2 or later versions to all macOS devices in the environment. 2. Restrict installation of applications to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store or enterprise-approved software repositories to reduce the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. 3. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted applications or prompts that request permissions or system modifications. 4. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring unauthorized file system modifications and alerting on suspicious behavior. 5. Enforce strict access controls and least privilege principles for local users to minimize the potential impact of local exploits. 6. Regularly audit macOS systems for unauthorized changes to protected file system areas. 7. Consider application whitelisting and system integrity protection features native to macOS to further reduce attack surface.