CVE-2024-44281 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 10/28/2024
An out-of-bounds read was addressed with improved input validation. This issue is fixed in macOS Sequoia 15.1, macOS Sonoma 14.7.1, macOS Ventura 13.7.1. Parsing a file may lead to disclosure of user information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical out-of-bounds read condition that affects multiple versions of Apple's macOS operating system including Sequoia 15.1, Sonoma 14.7.1, and Ventura 13.7.1. The flaw occurs during file parsing operations when the system fails to properly validate input data, allowing an attacker to potentially access memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. Such out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities typically arise when software does not adequately check array indices or buffer limits before accessing memory locations, creating opportunities for information disclosure and potential exploitation. The vulnerability falls under CWE-129, which specifically addresses improper validation of array indices, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for input validation flaws that can lead to memory corruption. The security implications extend beyond simple data exposure as this type of vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks, particularly when combined with other exploitation techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for macOS users and organizations relying on Apple's ecosystem. When parsing maliciously crafted files, the out-of-bounds read could potentially expose sensitive user information stored in memory, including personal data, authentication tokens, or application-specific credentials. This information disclosure risk is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where macOS devices handle confidential business data, personal identifiable information, or sensitive communications. The vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly benign file processing operations can become security threats when proper input validation is absent, creating potential attack vectors for adversaries seeking to escalate privileges or extract valuable data from compromised systems. Security researchers have identified this issue as a potential precursor to more serious exploits, as memory corruption vulnerabilities often provide attackers with opportunities to execute arbitrary code or gain elevated system privileges.
Organizations and individual users should prioritize immediate remediation by updating to the patched versions of macOS as specified in the advisory. The fixes implemented in macOS Sequoia 15.1, macOS Sonoma 14.7.1, and macOS Ventura 13.7.1 address the root cause through enhanced input validation mechanisms that properly bound array access operations during file parsing. System administrators should implement comprehensive patch management strategies to ensure all macOS devices within their environment receive the necessary updates, particularly in high-security environments where the risk of exploitation is elevated. Additional mitigations may include implementing network-based protections such as sandboxing file processing operations, monitoring for suspicious file access patterns, and maintaining updated threat intelligence feeds to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of continuous security testing and input validation practices, as demonstrated by the ATT&CK framework's emphasis on preventing input validation attacks through proper software design and implementation practices. Organizations should also consider implementing automated monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous file processing behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, while maintaining regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems.