CVE-2024-44247
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes a macOS vulnerability where a malicious application could bypass file system protections and modify restricted areas. It affects macOS Ventura and Sonoma users who haven't applied security updates. The issue involves incorrect authorization checks (CWE-863) that could allow unauthorized file system access.
💻 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 →⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
A malicious application could modify critical system files, install persistent malware, or compromise system integrity, potentially leading to complete system takeover.
Likely Case
Malicious applications could modify user data, install unwanted software, or tamper with configuration files to enable further attacks.
If Mitigated
With proper application sandboxing and security controls, the impact would be limited to the application's sandbox scope.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires user interaction to install/run malicious application. No public exploit code identified in references.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: macOS Ventura 13.7.1, macOS Sonoma 14.7.1
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/121568
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open System Settings > General > Software Update. 2. Install available updates. 3. Restart when prompted.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Restriction
allRestrict installation of applications from unidentified developers
sudo spctl --master-enable
sudo spctl --enable --label "Mac App Store"
sudo spctl --enable --label "Developer ID"
Gatekeeper Enforcement
allEnsure Gatekeeper is enabled to verify applications
sudo spctl --status
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement application allowlisting to restrict which applications can run
- Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for suspicious file system modifications
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version: if running Ventura < 13.7.1 or Sonoma < 14.7.1, system is vulnerable.Check Version:
sw_versVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version is Ventura 13.7.1 or Sonoma 14.7.1 or later.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unauthorized file modifications in protected directories in Unified Logs
- Application execution logs showing unexpected processes accessing system files
Network Indicators:
- Not applicable - local vulnerability
SIEM Query:
source="macos" (event_type="file_modification" AND file_path IN ("/System/*", "/Library/*", "/usr/*")) NOT user="root"