CVE-2024-27886
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows unprivileged applications on macOS to log keystrokes from other applications, including those using secure input mode. It affects macOS systems before version 14.4. Users running vulnerable macOS versions are at risk of having sensitive input data captured by malicious applications.
💻 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 →⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete compromise of all keyboard input including passwords, financial data, and confidential communications from any application on the system.
Likely Case
Targeted credential harvesting or surveillance of specific applications by malware or malicious software.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if proper application vetting and security controls prevent malicious software installation.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires user to install and run a malicious application. The vulnerability involves logic issues in input handling rather than memory corruption.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: macOS Sonoma 14.4
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT214084
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open System Settings 2. Click General 3. Click Software Update 4. Install macOS Sonoma 14.4 or later 5. Restart when prompted
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Restriction
macOSRestrict installation of applications to only those from the App Store and identified developers
System Settings > Privacy & Security > Security > Allow applications downloaded from: App Store
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement application allowlisting to prevent unauthorized applications from running
- Use separate secure systems for sensitive data entry and processing
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version: System Settings > General > About > macOS versionCheck Version:
sw_versVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version is 14.4 or later: System Settings > General > About > macOS version📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual application behavior accessing keyboard input APIs
- Multiple applications requesting accessibility permissions
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound traffic from applications that shouldn't have network access
SIEM Query:
process:accessibility OR process:keyboard AND NOT user:privileged