CVE-2022-26739
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2022-26739 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in Apple operating systems that allows an application to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. This enables complete system compromise. Affected users include those running vulnerable versions of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and tvOS.
💻 Affected Systems
- iOS
- iPadOS
- macOS
- tvOS
📦 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...
Learn more about Macos →Tvos by Apple
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Full system compromise with kernel-level privileges leading to data theft, persistence, and complete control over the device.
Likely Case
Malicious application gains kernel privileges to bypass security controls, install malware, or access sensitive data.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if systems are fully patched and application sandboxing prevents exploitation attempts.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires local application execution. No public exploit code available as of knowledge cutoff.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: tvOS 15.5, macOS Monterey 12.4, iOS 15.5, iPadOS 15.5
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213254
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open Settings app. 2. Go to General > Software Update. 3. Download and install the latest update. 4. Restart device when prompted.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Restriction
allRestrict installation of untrusted applications to reduce attack surface.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected devices from critical networks and sensitive data
- Implement strict application allowlisting to prevent untrusted app execution
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check system version in Settings > General > About on iOS/iPadOS, or About This Mac on macOS.Check Version:
iOS/iPadOS: Settings > General > About; macOS: About This Mac > System Report; tvOS: Settings > General > AboutVerify Fix Applied:
Verify system version matches or exceeds patched versions: iOS/iPadOS 15.5+, macOS 12.4+, tvOS 15.5+.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Kernel panic logs
- Unexpected privilege escalation attempts
- Suspicious application behavior
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from system processes
SIEM Query:
Process execution with unexpected parent-child relationships or privilege escalation patterns