CVE-2023-27930
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes a type confusion vulnerability in Apple operating systems that allows an application to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. It affects iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and macOS Ventura before specific patch versions. Successful exploitation gives attackers complete control over affected devices.
💻 Affected Systems
- iOS
- iPadOS
- watchOS
- tvOS
- macOS Ventura
📦 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
Watchos by Apple
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Full device compromise with kernel-level privileges, allowing installation of persistent malware, data theft, and complete system control.
Likely Case
Malicious apps bypassing sandbox restrictions to gain elevated privileges and perform unauthorized actions.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if devices are fully patched and app installation is restricted to trusted sources only.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires a malicious app to be installed on the target device. No known public exploits available.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: iOS 16.5, iPadOS 16.5, watchOS 9.5, tvOS 16.5, macOS Ventura 13.4
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213757
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update on iOS/iPadOS/watchOS/tvOS. 2. Install available updates. 3. For macOS, go to System Settings > General > Software Update. 4. Restart device after installation.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict App Installation
allOnly allow installation of apps from trusted sources like the App Store
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected devices from critical networks and sensitive data
- Implement strict application allowlisting policies
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check device version in Settings > General > About (iOS/iPadOS) or System Settings > General > About (macOS)Check Version:
sw_vers (macOS) or Settings > General > About > Version (iOS/iPadOS)Verify Fix Applied:
Verify version is equal to or greater than iOS 16.5, iPadOS 16.5, watchOS 9.5, tvOS 16.5, or macOS Ventura 13.4📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected kernel extensions loading
- Processes running with unexpected privileges
- System integrity protection violations
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from system processes
- Suspicious network activity from kernel-level components
SIEM Query:
process_privileges:elevated AND process_parent:kernel🔗 References
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213757
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213758
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213761
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213764
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213757
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213758
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213761
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213764
