CVE-2023-27958
📋 TL;DR
This is a high-severity memory corruption vulnerability in macOS kernel that allows remote attackers to cause system crashes or corrupt kernel memory. It affects macOS Ventura, Monterey, and Big Sur systems. Successful exploitation could lead to denial of service or potential kernel-level compromise.
💻 Affected Systems
- macOS
📦 What is this software?
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 →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 →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 →⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Remote attacker gains kernel-level code execution, leading to complete system compromise, data theft, or persistent backdoor installation.
Likely Case
Remote attacker causes kernel panic leading to system crash and denial of service, potentially requiring physical reboot.
If Mitigated
System remains stable with no impact if patched or if exploit attempts are blocked by network controls.
🎯 Exploit Status
Apple has addressed the issue, but exploit details are not publicly disclosed. Remote exploitation without authentication is indicated in the CVE description.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: macOS Ventura 13.3, macOS Monterey 12.6.4, macOS Big Sur 11.7.5
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213670
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open System Settings > General > Software Update. 2. Install available updates. 3. Restart when prompted. For managed environments, use MDM tools to deploy updates.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Network Segmentation
allIsolate vulnerable macOS systems from untrusted networks to reduce attack surface.
Firewall Restrictions
allImplement strict inbound firewall rules to limit network access to vulnerable systems.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected systems on separate network segments with strict access controls.
- Implement additional monitoring for kernel panic events and unusual system behavior.
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version: Ventura < 13.3, Monterey < 12.6.4, or Big Sur < 11.7.5.Check Version:
sw_versVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version is Ventura 13.3+, Monterey 12.6.4+, or Big Sur 11.7.5+.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Kernel panic logs in /Library/Logs/DiagnosticReports
- Unexpected system reboots
- Crash reports mentioning kernel
Network Indicators:
- Unusual network traffic to macOS systems on unexpected ports
- Connection attempts followed by system crashes
SIEM Query:
source="macos" AND (event="kernel_panic" OR event="system_reboot")🔗 References
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213670
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213675
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213677
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213670
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213675
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213677
- https://www.talosintelligence.com/vulnerability_reports/TALOS-2022-1689
