CVE-2023-42932 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 12/12/2023
A logic issue was addressed with improved checks. This issue is fixed in macOS Sonoma 14.2, macOS Ventura 13.6.3, macOS Monterey 12.7.2. An app may be able to access protected user data.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/02/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-42932 represents a logic flaw in Apple's macOS operating system that could potentially allow unauthorized access to protected user data. This issue was specifically addressed through improvements to the system's access controls and validation mechanisms. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of macOS including the latest releases of Sonoma, Ventura, and Monterey, indicating that it was a significant concern that required immediate attention across the entire macOS ecosystem. The flaw stems from inadequate validation checks that could be exploited by malicious applications to bypass normal security boundaries.
The technical nature of this vulnerability falls under the category of access control bypass, which is commonly categorized as CWE-284 Access Control Bypass or CWE-285 Authorization Bypass. The logic issue likely involves improper validation of application permissions or inadequate sandboxing mechanisms that should normally prevent applications from accessing user data outside their designated scope. This type of vulnerability represents a fundamental breakdown in the operating system's security model where legitimate security boundaries are not properly enforced. The issue manifests when an application attempts to access protected user data without proper authorization, potentially exposing sensitive information that should remain restricted to authorized processes only.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for macOS users who may unknowingly expose their personal data to potentially malicious applications. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it affects core operating system functionality that is essential for all user activities. Attackers could potentially exploit this flaw to gain access to sensitive user information including documents, communications, personal photos, and other private data stored on affected systems. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it affects multiple versions of macOS, meaning that a substantial user base could be exposed to potential data breaches. This type of access control bypass vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under the T1074 Data Staged technique, where adversaries prepare stolen data for exfiltration.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2023-42932 involves immediate deployment of the security updates provided by Apple for macOS Sonoma 14.2, macOS Ventura 13.6.3, and macOS Monterey 12.7.2. Users should ensure that their systems are updated to the latest available versions to remediate this vulnerability. System administrators should prioritize patching across all affected macOS installations within their environments. The fix implemented by Apple likely includes enhanced validation checks that properly enforce application sandboxing rules and access control policies. Organizations should also implement additional monitoring to detect any unusual application behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should consider conducting vulnerability assessments to identify any applications that may have been running with elevated privileges prior to patching. The resolution demonstrates Apple's commitment to addressing security concerns through timely updates and improved validation mechanisms that prevent unauthorized data access while maintaining system functionality and user experience.