CVE-2026-20615 is a critical privilege escalation vulnerability affecting Apple macOS and other Apple operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS. The root cause is a path handling issue where insufficient validation allows a malicious app to manipulate system paths to escalate privileges improperly. This flaw enables an attacker-controlled app to gain root privileges, bypassing normal security restrictions. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple OS versions, including macOS Tahoe 26.3, macOS Sonoma 14.8.4, iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3. Apple has fixed the issue by implementing improved path validation in these updates. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no public exploits are known at this time. However, the ability to gain root privileges means an attacker could fully control the affected device, access sensitive data, install persistent malware, or disrupt system operations. Exploitation requires the attacker to have an app running on the device, but no additional user interaction is necessary once the app is installed. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure path validation in operating system components and the risks posed by privilege escalation bugs in widely used platforms.

The impact of CVE-2026-20615 is severe for organizations and individuals using affected Apple operating systems. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can gain root-level access, effectively taking full control of the device. This compromises confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system and all data stored or processed on it. Potential impacts include unauthorized data access or exfiltration, installation of persistent malware or backdoors, disruption of system services, and evasion of security controls. For enterprises, this could lead to lateral movement within networks, data breaches, and significant operational disruption. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Apple devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and emerging visionOS devices, increasing the scope of risk. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the critical nature of root privilege escalation means attackers may develop exploits rapidly once details are public. Organizations relying heavily on Apple ecosystems, especially in sensitive sectors such as government, finance, healthcare, and technology, face heightened risk.

To mitigate CVE-2026-20615, organizations and users should immediately apply the security updates released by Apple for macOS Tahoe 26.3, macOS Sonoma 14.8.4, iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict application control policies to prevent installation of untrusted or unsigned apps, reducing the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. Employing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for unusual privilege escalation behaviors can help detect exploitation attempts. Regularly auditing installed applications and restricting app permissions to the minimum necessary can limit attack surface. Network segmentation and least privilege principles should be enforced to contain potential compromises. Additionally, educating users about the risks of installing apps from unverified sources can reduce exposure. Monitoring Apple security advisories for any updates or exploit reports is critical for timely response.