CVE-2021-30807
📋 TL;DR
This is a memory corruption vulnerability in Apple operating systems that allows an application to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. It affects macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS users running vulnerable versions. Apple has confirmed this vulnerability was actively exploited in the wild.
💻 Affected Systems
- macOS
- iOS
- iPadOS
- watchOS
📦 What is this software?
Ipados by Apple
Macos by Apple
macOS is Apple's desktop and laptop operating system powering Mac computers used by millions of professionals, developers, creative professionals, and enterprise users worldwide. Built on a Unix foundation with the Darwin kernel and modern Cocoa frameworks, macOS delivers a seamless ecosystem integr...
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⚠️ 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
Targeted attacks against high-value individuals or organizations to gain persistent access to devices and networks.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if devices are fully patched and have additional security controls like application allowlisting and network segmentation.
🎯 Exploit Status
Apple confirmed active exploitation in the wild. Exploitation requires user interaction to run a malicious application.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: macOS Big Sur 11.5.1, iOS 14.7.1, iPadOS 14.7.1, watchOS 7.6.1
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212622
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open Settings/System Preferences. 2. Navigate to Software Update. 3. Install available updates. 4. Restart device when prompted.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Restriction
allRestrict installation of applications from untrusted sources to reduce attack surface.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected devices from critical networks and internet access
- Implement strict application control policies to prevent execution of untrusted applications
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check OS version in Settings > General > About on iOS/iPadOS/watchOS or Apple menu > About This Mac on macOSCheck Version:
sw_vers (macOS) or Settings > General > About (iOS/iPadOS/watchOS)Verify Fix Applied:
Verify OS version matches or exceeds patched versions: macOS 11.5.1+, iOS 14.7.1+, iPadOS 14.7.1+, watchOS 7.6.1+📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected kernel panics
- Unusual application crashes with memory-related errors
- Suspicious application installations
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from Apple devices
- Traffic to known malicious domains
SIEM Query:
source="apple_system_logs" AND (event="kernel_panic" OR event="memory_corruption")🔗 References
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212622
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212623
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212713
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212622
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212623
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212713
- https://www.cisa.gov/known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog?field_cve=CVE-2021-30807
