CVE-2024-44291
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes a privilege escalation vulnerability in macOS file handling that allows malicious applications to gain root privileges. It affects macOS Ventura, Sonoma, and Sequoia before specific patch versions. Users running unpatched macOS systems are vulnerable to local privilege escalation attacks.
💻 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 →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 system compromise with root access, allowing attackers to install persistent malware, access all user data, and control the entire system.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation where a malicious app or user with standard privileges gains root access to execute arbitrary code, modify system files, or bypass security controls.
If Mitigated
Limited impact with proper application sandboxing, code signing enforcement, and user awareness preventing malicious app execution.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires local access and ability to execute malicious code. Public disclosures suggest proof-of-concept details are available in security mailing lists.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: macOS Ventura 13.7.2, macOS Sonoma 14.7.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/121839
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open System Settings 2. Click General 3. Click Software Update 4. Install available updates 5. Restart when prompted
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Restriction
macOSRestrict installation and execution of untrusted applications to reduce attack surface
sudo spctl --master-enable
sudo spctl --enable --label "Developer ID"
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict application control policies to prevent execution of untrusted applications
- Use standard user accounts instead of admin accounts for daily use to limit potential impact
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version: if running Ventura <13.7.2, Sonoma <14.7.2, or Sequoia <15.2, system is vulnerableCheck Version:
sw_versVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version is Ventura 13.7.2, Sonoma 14.7.2, or Sequoia 15.2 or later📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected privilege escalation events in system logs
- Processes running with unexpected root privileges
- Unauthorized file access to protected system directories
Network Indicators:
- Not applicable - local privilege escalation
SIEM Query:
source="macos_system_logs" AND (event_type="privilege_escalation" OR process_name="sudo" OR user="root") AND NOT expected_behavior