CVE-2024-44199
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in macOS that could allow a malicious application to read kernel memory or cause system crashes. It affects macOS systems prior to Sonoma 14.6. The vulnerability requires local application execution to exploit.
💻 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
An attacker could read sensitive kernel memory, potentially exposing credentials, encryption keys, or other privileged system information, leading to complete system compromise.
Likely Case
A malicious application could cause system crashes (kernel panics) or read limited kernel memory, potentially enabling privilege escalation or information disclosure.
If Mitigated
With proper application sandboxing and least privilege principles, impact would be limited to denial of service or limited information disclosure within the sandbox context.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires a malicious application to be executed on the target system. The out-of-bounds read nature suggests it may be challenging to weaponize for reliable exploitation.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: macOS Sonoma 14.6
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/120911
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open System Settings 2. Click General 3. Click Software Update 4. Install macOS Sonoma 14.6 update 5. Restart when prompted
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Restriction
macOSRestrict installation and execution of untrusted applications using MDM policies or parental controls
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict application allowlisting to prevent execution of untrusted applications
- Use network segmentation to isolate vulnerable systems and limit lateral movement potential
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version in System Settings > General > About. If version is earlier than 14.6, system is vulnerable.Check Version:
sw_versVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version is 14.6 or later in System Settings > General > About📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Kernel panics in system logs
- Unexpected application crashes with memory access errors
- Console.app entries showing memory access violations
Network Indicators:
- No direct network indicators as this is a local vulnerability
SIEM Query:
source="macos_system_logs" AND ("kernel panic" OR "out of bounds" OR "memory access")