CVE-2022-32783 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 09/23/2022
A logic issue was addressed with improved checks. This issue is fixed in macOS Monterey 12.4. An app may gain unauthorized access to Bluetooth.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/23/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-32783 represents a logic flaw in macOS Monterey that allows applications to potentially access bluetooth functionality without proper authorization. This issue stems from inadequate validation mechanisms within the operating system's bluetooth access controls, creating a pathway for malicious software to bypass normal security boundaries. The flaw specifically affects the permission model that governs how applications can interact with bluetooth hardware and services on macOS devices. The vulnerability exists in the underlying system logic that determines when and how bluetooth access requests are processed and granted.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a weakness in the authorization framework where the system fails to properly validate whether an application has legitimate reason to access bluetooth capabilities. This logic issue creates a scenario where an application can potentially exploit the system to gain bluetooth access even when such access should be restricted. The flaw operates at the system level rather than at the application level, making it particularly concerning as it affects the fundamental security model of the operating system. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control mechanisms, and potentially CWE-345, which covers insufficient verification of data authenticity. The issue manifests when applications attempt to utilize bluetooth functionality without proper user consent or system validation.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-32783 extends beyond simple unauthorized access to include potential data interception, device discovery, and communication manipulation. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to perform reconnaissance activities, gather device information, or establish unauthorized connections with other bluetooth devices. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where sensitive data is transmitted through bluetooth connections or where devices are used in corporate or government settings. This vulnerability can enable techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under T1046 for network service scanning and T1059 for command and control communications. The affected system components include the bluetooth subsystem, authorization services, and the application sandboxing mechanisms that should normally prevent such unauthorized access.
Apple addressed this vulnerability by implementing enhanced validation checks in macOS Monterey version 12.4, which strengthens the authorization process for bluetooth access requests. The fix involves tightening the logic that governs when applications can request and receive bluetooth permissions, ensuring that proper user consent and system validation occur before access is granted. Organizations should immediately deploy the macOS Monterey 12.4 update to remediate this vulnerability and protect their systems from potential exploitation. System administrators should also implement monitoring solutions to detect unusual bluetooth activity patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The mitigation strategy should include regular security assessments of bluetooth-dependent applications and enforcement of strict application permission policies. Additional protective measures include disabling bluetooth when not in use, implementing network segmentation, and maintaining current security patches across all macOS devices within the organization.