CVE-2024-27842 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 05/14/2024
The issue was addressed with improved checks. This issue is fixed in macOS Sonoma 14.5. An app may be able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in macOS Sonoma that could allow malicious applications to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. The issue stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the operating system's security framework, creating a pathway for unauthorized code execution at the most privileged level of the system. The vulnerability was specifically addressed through enhanced validation checks that strengthen the kernel's integrity protections and access control mechanisms. The fix implemented in macOS Sonoma 14.5 demonstrates Apple's response to this security gap by reinforcing the kernel's ability to properly validate and authorize code execution requests.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and represents a classic privilege escalation vector where user-mode applications can manipulate system calls or kernel interfaces to gain elevated privileges. Attackers exploiting this flaw could potentially bypass macOS security controls including System Integrity Protection and code signing requirements. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond typical application-level exploits since kernel privileges provide complete system control, enabling attackers to modify critical system components, install persistent backdoors, or exfiltrate sensitive data without detection. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where macOS systems may be targeted by sophisticated adversaries seeking long-term access to network infrastructure.
The operational implications of this vulnerability are severe for organizations relying on macOS platforms, as it could enable attackers to establish persistent footholds within their networks. The fix in macOS Sonoma 14.5 addresses the root cause by implementing stricter kernel validation routines that prevent unauthorized privilege escalation attempts. Security teams should prioritize deployment of this update across all affected systems, particularly in environments where macOS devices handle sensitive data or serve as network entry points. The vulnerability's resolution aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers exploiting vulnerabilities to gain system privileges, and represents a critical remediation effort to prevent attackers from leveraging kernel-level access for further exploitation activities.
Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, as this vulnerability could be targeted by advanced persistent threat groups seeking to establish stealthy system compromises. The update process requires careful planning to ensure system stability while maintaining security posture, as kernel-level modifications can sometimes introduce compatibility issues with existing applications. Security professionals should also consider implementing additional protective measures such as application whitelisting, network monitoring, and regular security assessments to complement the patch deployment. The vulnerability's classification as a kernel-level privilege escalation underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date system patches and following security best practices for macOS environments.