CVE-2023-42906 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 12/12/2023
Multiple memory corruption issues were addressed with improved input validation. This issue is fixed in macOS Sonoma 14.2. Processing a maliciously crafted file may lead to unexpected app termination or arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-42906 represents a critical memory corruption flaw affecting macOS Sonoma 14.2 systems. This issue stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the operating system's file processing frameworks, creating opportunities for malicious actors to exploit memory handling weaknesses through crafted file inputs. The vulnerability falls under the category of memory safety issues that can result in either application crashes or more severe arbitrary code execution capabilities, making it particularly dangerous in targeted attack scenarios.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. These memory corruption vulnerabilities typically arise when applications fail to properly validate input data before processing, allowing attackers to manipulate memory layouts and potentially execute malicious code. The flaw manifests specifically during file processing operations where the system does not adequately sanitize or validate file contents before parsing them, creating pathways for attackers to inject malicious payloads that can overwrite critical memory structures.
From an operational perspective, the impact of CVE-2023-42906 extends beyond simple application instability to potential system compromise. When a maliciously crafted file is processed, the vulnerability can cause unexpected application termination, which may be exploited for denial of service attacks, or more critically, enable arbitrary code execution that could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to affected systems. This vulnerability particularly affects the macOS ecosystem's file handling mechanisms, potentially compromising user data and system integrity. The attack surface is broad as it involves common file processing operations across various applications that rely on the underlying operating system's file handling capabilities.
The remediation for CVE-2023-42906 requires immediate deployment of macOS Sonoma 14.2 updates which include enhanced input validation measures and improved memory handling procedures. Organizations should prioritize patch management to ensure all affected systems receive the necessary security updates promptly. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous file processing behaviors that might indicate exploitation attempts. The mitigation strategy should also include user education about avoiding suspicious file attachments and implementing least privilege principles to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of continuous security assessment and the need for robust input validation as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's mitigation strategies for memory corruption attacks.