CVE-2026-112444 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 10/26/2026
This issue was addressed with improved checks. This issue is fixed in macOS Golden Gate 27.2, macOS Tahoe 26.7.2. An app may be able to bypass Gatekeeper checks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2026
The vulnerability described involves a flaw within the Apple operating system's application security framework known as Gatekeeper. Specifically identified in updates for macOS versions including Golden Gate 27.2 and Tahoe 26.7.2, this issue allows malicious or untrusted applications to bypass critical integrity verification checks. Gatekeeper is designed to ensure that only software from identified developers runs on a Mac system by verifying digital signatures and checking against Apple's notarization database. The flaw in question represents a logic error or insufficient validation mechanism within the enforcement layer of this security control, enabling an application to execute without passing the required authentication steps.
From a technical perspective, this bypass likely stems from improper handling of code signature verification processes or race conditions during the launch sequence of applications. When Gatekeeper fails to correctly validate that an executable meets all safety criteria before execution begins, it creates a gap in the defense-in-depth strategy employed by macOS. This type of vulnerability is typically classified under CWE-287, which refers to Improper Authentication, as the system fails to adequately verify the identity or trustworthiness of the software attempting to run. It may also relate to CWE-94, Improper Control of Generation of Code, if the bypass allows for arbitrary code execution that was intended to be blocked by security policies.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant because it undermines one of the primary defenses against malware and unwanted software on macOS systems. An attacker who can exploit this flaw could distribute malicious payloads disguised as legitimate applications or modify existing trusted binaries in ways that evade detection. Since Gatekeeper serves as a gatekeeping mechanism to prevent unsigned code from running, its bypass allows threat actors to execute scripts, installers, or compiled binaries without triggering user warnings or system blocks. This effectively neutralizes the protective barrier intended for end-users who rely on these automated checks to maintain system integrity and security posture against common infection vectors such as phishing attachments or compromised downloads.
Mitigation strategies primarily involve applying the provided software updates immediately to ensure that the improved validation logic is active within the operating environment. Administrators should verify that all endpoints are running macOS Golden Gate 27.2 or later, or macOS Tahoe 26.7.2 and subsequent patches. In addition to patching, organizations should enforce strict application whitelisting policies where feasible, ensuring that only pre-approved applications can execute regardless of Gatekeeper status. Monitoring for unusual execution patterns or attempts by unsigned binaries to launch can also help detect exploitation attempts in real-time. Security teams must remain vigilant as attackers frequently adapt their techniques to bypass such controls, making continuous monitoring and timely patch management essential components of a robust security strategy aligned with MITRE ATT&CK tactics related to Execution and Defense Evasion.