CVE-2024-54528 is a logic vulnerability in Apple macOS that allows an application with limited privileges to overwrite arbitrary files on the system. The root cause is a flaw in the system's logic that insufficiently restricts file write operations, enabling an app to bypass expected protections. This vulnerability affects macOS versions prior to Sequoia 15.2, Sonoma 14.7.2, and Ventura 13.7.2, where Apple has implemented improved restrictions to address the issue. Exploitation requires the attacker to have local privileges (PR:L) but does not require user interaction (UI:N), making it feasible for malicious or compromised apps running on the system to perform unauthorized file overwrites. The CVSS v3.1 vector (AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:H/A:H) indicates that while the attack surface is limited to local access, the impact on integrity and availability is high, potentially allowing attackers to corrupt or replace critical system or user files, leading to system instability or denial of service. No known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, but the vulnerability's nature makes it a significant risk especially in multi-user or enterprise environments where untrusted applications may be present. The flaw does not impact confidentiality directly but can severely affect system integrity and availability. Apple’s patches in the specified macOS versions close this vulnerability by enforcing stricter file operation restrictions.

This vulnerability can have severe consequences for organizations worldwide, particularly those relying heavily on macOS systems. An attacker with local access and limited privileges can overwrite arbitrary files, potentially leading to system instability, denial of service, or the corruption of critical data. This could disrupt business operations, cause data loss, or enable further attacks such as privilege escalation or persistence mechanisms by replacing system binaries or configuration files. Environments with shared or multi-user access, such as enterprise networks, educational institutions, or public kiosks, are especially vulnerable. The lack of required user interaction increases the risk of automated or stealthy exploitation by malicious apps or insiders. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability's presence in widely used macOS versions means that threat actors may develop exploits, increasing the urgency for mitigation. The impact on availability and integrity can also affect critical infrastructure sectors that use Apple devices, including finance, healthcare, and government agencies.

Organizations should immediately verify their macOS versions and apply the security updates provided in macOS Sequoia 15.2, Sonoma 14.7.2, and Ventura 13.7.2 or later. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict application control policies to limit the installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications, reducing the risk of local exploitation. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for unusual file modification activities, especially those targeting system or configuration files. Restrict local user privileges to the minimum necessary to reduce the attack surface. Regularly audit file integrity on critical systems to detect unauthorized changes. In environments where patching is delayed, consider isolating vulnerable macOS systems or limiting local access to trusted users only. Educate users about the risks of running untrusted applications and maintain robust backup and recovery procedures to mitigate potential data loss. Finally, monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence sources for any emerging exploit reports or additional mitigation guidance.