CVE-2024-27888
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes a macOS permissions vulnerability that allows applications to modify protected areas of the file system. The issue affects macOS systems before Sonoma 14.4 and could enable malicious apps to alter system files or sensitive data.
💻 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
Malicious application gains full control over system files, potentially installing persistent malware, stealing sensitive data, or bricking the system.
Likely Case
Malware or compromised applications gain elevated file system access to modify configuration files, install backdoors, or access protected user data.
If Mitigated
With proper app vetting and security controls, impact is limited to authorized applications making unintended modifications.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires malicious application to be installed and executed on the target system. No public exploit details available.
🛠️ 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 and execution of untrusted applications
sudo spctl --master-enable
sudo spctl --enable --label "Developer ID"
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict application control policies to only allow trusted, signed applications
- Use endpoint protection software with behavioral analysis to detect suspicious file system modifications
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version: if earlier than Sonoma 14.4, system is vulnerableCheck Version:
sw_versVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version is 14.4 or later and check Apple security updates are applied📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected file modifications in protected directories
- Application attempting to access system files
Network Indicators:
- Not applicable - local vulnerability
SIEM Query:
source="macos" AND (event="file_modification" AND path CONTAINS "/System/" OR path CONTAINS "/Library/")