CVE-2024-44260 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 10/29/2024
This issue was addressed by removing the vulnerable code. This issue is fixed in macOS Sequoia 15.1, macOS Sonoma 14.7.1, macOS Ventura 13.7.1. A malicious app with root privileges may be able to modify the contents of system files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw that existed in Apple's macOS operating system across multiple versions including Sequoia 15.1, Sonoma 14.7.1, and Ventura 13.7.1. The issue stemmed from a code flaw that allowed malicious applications with root privileges to potentially modify system file contents, creating a serious security risk that could compromise the integrity of the entire operating system. The vulnerability was classified under CWE-276 which specifically addresses improper permissions and access control mechanisms, highlighting the fundamental flaw in how the system handled file access controls when root privileges were present.
The technical nature of this vulnerability exploited the way macOS managed file system permissions and access controls when applications operated with elevated privileges. Attackers with malicious intent could leverage this flaw to bypass normal security boundaries that should prevent root-level applications from modifying critical system files. This represents a significant deviation from the principle of least privilege and could allow for persistent backdoor installation or system corruption. The vulnerability's remediation involved the complete removal of the vulnerable code paths, which aligns with defensive programming principles that emphasize eliminating attack surfaces rather than merely patching specific weaknesses.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability created a substantial risk for organizations and individuals using affected macOS versions, as it could enable attackers to maintain persistent access to systems. The impact extends beyond simple file modification to potentially allow for complete system compromise, especially when combined with other exploitation techniques. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this under privilege escalation tactics, specifically T1068 which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" and potentially T1548.1 which addresses "Abuse Elevation Control Mechanisms". The vulnerability's presence in multiple macOS versions indicates a systemic issue that required coordinated patching across Apple's operating system lifecycle.
The fix implemented by Apple involved complete removal of the vulnerable code rather than a simple patch, demonstrating the severity of the flaw and the organization's recognition of the potential for exploitation. This approach aligns with the principle of least privilege enforcement and proper access control implementation as defined in industry standards. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of the patches for macOS Sequoia 15.1, macOS Sonoma 14.7.1, and macOS Ventura 13.7.1 to prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date operating systems and the potential consequences of running outdated software versions that may contain unpatched security flaws.