CVE-2022-32799 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 09/23/2022
An out-of-bounds read issue was addressed with improved bounds checking. This issue is fixed in Security Update 2022-005 Catalina, macOS Monterey 12.5. A user in a privileged network position may be able to leak sensitive information.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/23/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-32799 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw that exists within macOS operating systems, specifically affecting versions prior to the Security Update 2022-005 Catalina and macOS Monterey 12.5. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of memory safety issues commonly classified as CWE-129, which encompasses improper validation of array indices and buffer overflows. The flaw manifests when the system processes data structures that lack adequate bounds checking mechanisms, potentially allowing malicious actors with privileged network access to exploit the vulnerability for information disclosure purposes. The out-of-bounds read condition occurs when a program attempts to access memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, creating opportunities for sensitive data leakage.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the absence of proper input validation and boundary checking within the kernel-level or system libraries that handle network traffic processing. When a user with privileged network position executes maliciously crafted network requests or data packets, the system's failure to validate array indices or buffer limits enables the attacker to read memory contents that should remain protected. This particular vulnerability is especially concerning because it operates at a low system level where network processing occurs, potentially exposing kernel memory structures, credentials, or other sensitive system information. The attack vector leverages network-based privileges, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1046 for network service scanning.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-32799 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive system data that could be used for further exploitation or lateral movement within the network. An attacker with privileged network access can leverage this vulnerability to extract kernel memory contents, potentially revealing encryption keys, user credentials, or system configuration details that would otherwise remain protected. This information leakage creates a foundation for more sophisticated attacks, including privilege escalation or credential harvesting, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where network segmentation may not be sufficient to contain the threat. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security posture of macOS systems and requires immediate remediation to prevent unauthorized data access.
System administrators and security teams should prioritize the deployment of Security Update 2022-005 Catalina and macOS Monterey 12.5 to address this vulnerability effectively. The update implements improved bounds checking mechanisms that prevent the out-of-bounds read conditions from occurring during network data processing operations. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous traffic patterns or memory access attempts that might indicate exploitation attempts. The mitigation strategy should include regular patch management processes and network segmentation controls to minimize the potential impact of similar vulnerabilities. Compliance with security standards such as NIST SP 800-40 and ISO 27001 requires systematic vulnerability management approaches that include timely application of security patches and continuous monitoring for exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct vulnerability assessments to identify other potential memory safety issues within their macOS environments that could present similar risks to CVE-2022-32799.