CVE-2022-32905 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 11/02/2022
This issue was addressed with improved validation of symlinks. This issue is fixed in macOS Ventura 13. Processing a maliciously crafted DMG file may lead to arbitrary code execution with system privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/05/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-32905 represents a critical security flaw in macOS Ventura 13 that stems from inadequate validation of symbolic links within disk image files. This weakness specifically affects the processing of maliciously crafted DMG files, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated system privileges. The issue resides in the operating system's handling of symbolic link structures during disk image mounting operations, where insufficient input validation allows crafted link references to bypass normal security boundaries.
This vulnerability falls under the broader category of improper input validation as classified by CWE-20, and more specifically aligns with CWE-59 which deals with improper handling of symbolic links. The flaw enables attackers to construct malicious DMG files containing specially crafted symbolic links that, when mounted by the system, can redirect execution flows or manipulate file system operations to achieve unauthorized code execution. The security implications are particularly severe because the attack vector operates at the system privilege level, meaning successful exploitation grants full administrative control over the affected macOS system.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-32905 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through social engineering campaigns targeting users to mount malicious DMG files, which could contain additional malware payloads or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where users may be prompted to mount disk images from untrusted sources, and it aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. The attack surface is broad as DMG files are commonly used for software distribution and system updates, making this a widespread concern for macOS users and administrators.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-32905 primarily focus on immediate system updates to macOS Ventura 13 or later versions where the vulnerability has been addressed through enhanced symlink validation mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict software distribution policies that limit the sources of DMG files and establish clear procedures for verifying the integrity of mounted disk images. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious DMG file mounting activities and unusual symlink creation patterns within system logs. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as disk image verification using tools like spctl and ensuring that users are educated about the risks of mounting untrusted disk images. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current system patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against similar flaws in file processing components.