CVE-2024-54524
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes a logic flaw in macOS file handling that allows malicious applications to bypass intended access restrictions and read arbitrary files on the system. It affects macOS systems running versions before Sequoia 15.2. The vulnerability requires a malicious app to be installed and executed on the target system.
💻 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
A malicious application could access sensitive files including passwords, encryption keys, personal documents, and system configuration files, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data exfiltration.
Likely Case
Malware or compromised applications could access user data, configuration files, and potentially sensitive information stored in accessible directories.
If Mitigated
With proper application vetting and security controls, the risk is limited to authorized applications that become compromised or malicious applications that bypass security checks.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires developing or modifying an application to abuse the file handling logic flaw. No public exploit code has been disclosed as of the available references.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: 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 macOS Sequoia 15.2 update 5. Restart the system when prompted
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Restriction
macOSRestrict installation and execution of untrusted applications using macOS security settings
System Settings > Privacy & Security > Security > Allow applications downloaded from: App Store and identified developers
File Access Monitoring
macOSMonitor for unusual file access patterns using macOS built-in security tools
sudo log show --predicate 'eventMessage contains "file"' --last 1h
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict application control policies to prevent installation of untrusted applications
- Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious file access patterns
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version: if running any version before Sequoia 15.2, the system is vulnerableCheck Version:
sw_versVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version is 15.2 or later after applying the update📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual file access patterns by applications
- Applications accessing files outside their sandbox or intended directories
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound data transfers following file access patterns
SIEM Query:
source="macos" event_type="file_access" file_path="*" process_name NOT IN ("trusted_app1", "trusted_app2")