External risk intelligence

Apple macOS Local Memory Disclosure Advisory.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2022-22674

A vulnerability in macOS allows local users to read kernel memory. This could lead to the disclosure of sensitive system information. The risk is moderate, requiring local access for exploitation.

1Halo Surface Signal

Out-of-bounds Read

Apple Mac Os X

10.15 to before 10.15.710.15.711.0 to before 11.6.612.0.0 to before 12.3.1

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2022-22674

This vulnerability is an out-of-bounds read issue within the kernel, which requires local access to the system to exploit. It is not reachable via network protocols or public-facing internet services.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

An out-of-bounds read vulnerability has been identified in Apple's macOS operating system. This flaw allows a local user to potentially read sensitive kernel memory. The issue stems from inadequate input validation within the system's core processes.

  • Vulnerable component: macOS kernel memory.
  • Core weakness: Out-of-bounds read.
  • Main business impact: Data disclosure.

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An out-of-bounds read vulnerability in the operating system kernel could allow unauthorized access to sensitive kernel memory. Exploitation requires a local user to interact with a vulnerable system. This could lead to the disclosure of information that may provide attackers with further insights into system operations.

  • Local user exposure required.
  • Attacker triggers memory read.
  • Kernel memory disclosed.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a moderate risk, primarily impacting organizations using affected Apple macOS operating systems. An attacker with local access to a system could potentially exploit this flaw to read sensitive kernel memory. The difficulty for an attacker is considered low, and the potential for unauthorized data disclosure warrants attention, though it does not appear to be actively leveraged in widespread attacks.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Low
  • Required access or conditions: Local access to the system
  • Business risk or urgency: Moderate impact, data disclosure

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

An out-of-bounds read vulnerability has been identified in macOS, potentially allowing local users to access kernel memory. This issue has been addressed by the vendor through improved input validation in specific software updates. Organizations using affected systems should prioritize identifying and securing these assets to mitigate potential risks.

  • Find all macOS systems.
  • Isolate or restrict access.
  • Apply vendor updates and verify.
  • Monitor for related activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is macOS and what is it used for?

macOS is the operating system developed by Apple for its Mac computers. It provides the interface and core functionality that users interact with to run applications, manage files, and operate their computers for a wide range of personal and professional tasks.

What kind of vulnerability is CVE-2022-22674 in macOS?

CVE-2022-22674 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability. This type of weakness occurs when software tries to access data beyond the boundaries of a buffer, which in this case could lead to the disclosure of sensitive kernel memory.

What are the preconditions for an attacker to exploit CVE-2022-22674?

Exploiting this vulnerability requires an attacker to have local access to the affected macOS system. It is not triggered by remote network access or user interaction with web pages or emails.

Who should be concerned about this macOS vulnerability?

Organizations running affected versions of macOS should be concerned. Since this vulnerability requires local access, it poses a risk to systems that might be compromised physically or through other means, leading to potential data disclosure from the system's kernel.

What is the first step to address this macOS vulnerability?

The first step is to identify all macOS systems within your environment that are running vulnerable versions. After identification, applying the relevant software updates provided by Apple, such as macOS Monterey 12.3.1 or Security Update 2022-004, is crucial.

References