CVE-2022-42845 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 12/15/2022
The issue was addressed with improved memory handling. This issue is fixed in tvOS 16.2, macOS Monterey 12.6.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, macOS Big Sur 11.7.2, iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2, watchOS 9.2. An app with root privileges may be able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical kernel-level memory handling flaw that could enable privilege escalation from root to kernel privileges. The issue manifests in Apple's operating systems where an application possessing root-level permissions could potentially leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code with the full privileges of the kernel itself. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple platforms including tvOS, macOS across several versions, iOS, and watchOS, indicating a widespread impact across the Apple ecosystem. The fix implemented by Apple addresses the underlying memory management issues that allowed this privilege escalation vector to exist in the first place.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with common kernel exploitation patterns where improper memory handling creates opportunities for malicious code execution. This type of flaw typically arises from insufficient validation of memory operations or improper boundary checks during kernel-level processes. The vulnerability could be exploited through an application that already possesses root privileges, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no additional privilege escalation mechanisms. The fix implemented by Apple involved strengthening memory handling protocols which likely included improved bounds checking, enhanced memory allocation routines, and more robust validation of memory operations within kernel space. This approach addresses fundamental security principles related to memory safety and privilege separation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it creates a pathway for persistent kernel-level compromise. An attacker with root access to a device could potentially use this vulnerability to gain complete system control, execute arbitrary code, and maintain persistence at the kernel level. This would allow for complete system takeover, data exfiltration, and the ability to bypass other security mechanisms that operate at higher privilege levels. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Apple's operating systems, meaning organizations using these platforms face widespread exposure. The fact that the fix is available across multiple versions including both current and legacy releases demonstrates Apple's recognition of the severity and widespread nature of the issue.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate deployment of the applicable security updates across all affected Apple platforms. Organizations should prioritize updating tvOS, macOS Monterey 12.6.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, macOS Big Sur 11.7.2, iOS 16.2, and iPadOS 16.2, as well as watchOS 9.2. System administrators should implement continuous monitoring for any suspicious root-level activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification aligns with common attack patterns documented in the attack tactics and techniques framework, particularly those related to privilege escalation and kernel exploitation. Security teams should also consider implementing additional monitoring for applications that attempt to perform memory operations that might trigger similar vulnerabilities. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE categories related to memory safety and privilege management, and represents a critical concern in the context of Apple's security model where root privileges are often required for system administration tasks.