CVE-2020-9799
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2020-9799 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in macOS that allows malicious applications to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. This affects macOS systems running versions prior to Catalina 10.15.6, potentially giving attackers complete system control.
💻 Affected Systems
- macOS
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Full system compromise with kernel-level privileges, allowing attackers to install persistent malware, steal sensitive data, or disable security controls.
Likely Case
Malicious applications exploiting this to gain elevated privileges, potentially leading to data theft or system manipulation.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if systems are patched, applications are from trusted sources only, and proper application sandboxing is enforced.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires user to execute malicious application. No public exploit code available as of analysis.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: macOS Catalina 10.15.6
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/HT211289
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open System Preferences > Software Update. 2. Install macOS Catalina 10.15.6 update. 3. Restart system when prompted.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Restriction
macosRestrict application execution to App Store and identified developers only
sudo spctl --master-enable
sudo spctl --enable --label "Mac App Store"
sudo spctl --enable --label "Developer ID"
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Restrict user privileges and implement least privilege access controls
- Deploy application allowlisting to prevent unauthorized application execution
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version: if running macOS Catalina earlier than 10.15.6, system is vulnerable.Check Version:
sw_vers -productVersionVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version is 10.15.6 or later after update installation.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual kernel extensions loading
- Suspicious privilege escalation attempts in system logs
Network Indicators:
- None - local exploitation only
SIEM Query:
source="macos_system_logs" AND (event="kernel_extension_load" OR event="privilege_escalation")