CVE-2023-42977
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes a sandbox escape vulnerability in Apple operating systems where improper path validation allows malicious apps to break out of their security sandbox. It affects iOS, iPadOS, and macOS users running vulnerable versions. Successful exploitation could allow an app to access files and resources outside its intended permissions.
💻 Affected Systems
- iOS
- iPadOS
- macOS
📦 What is this software?
Ipad Os 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 →⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
A malicious app could gain full system access, read sensitive files, install persistent malware, or compromise user data across the entire device.
Likely Case
Malicious apps from untrusted sources could access user documents, photos, or other protected data they shouldn't have permission to read.
If Mitigated
With proper app vetting and only installing from official sources, the risk is significantly reduced as malicious apps would need to bypass App Store review.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires a malicious app to be installed and executed on the target device. No public exploit code is known at this time.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: iOS 17, iPadOS 17, macOS Sonoma 14
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/120949
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open Settings app. 2. Go to General > Software Update. 3. Download and install the latest iOS/iPadOS 17 or macOS Sonoma 14 update. 4. Restart device when prompted.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict App Installation Sources
allOnly allow app installations from the official App Store to reduce risk of malicious apps.
Settings > General > Device Management > Restrictions > Allow Apps: App Store Only
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Only install apps from trusted sources and the official App Store
- Implement mobile device management (MDM) to control app installation and monitor for suspicious behavior
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check if device is running iOS/iPadOS version below 17 or macOS version below Sonoma 14Check Version:
iOS/iPadOS: Settings > General > About > Version. macOS: Apple menu > About This Mac > macOS versionVerify Fix Applied:
Verify device is running iOS 17+, iPadOS 17+, or macOS Sonoma 14+📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual file access patterns from sandboxed apps
- Apps attempting to access paths outside their sandbox
Network Indicators:
- Not applicable - local vulnerability
SIEM Query:
Not applicable for typical enterprise monitoring as this is a local OS vulnerability