CVE-2019-8569

Vulnerability

A memory corruption issue exists in macOS, affecting versions prior to macOS Mojave 10.14.5, macOS Mojave 10.14.4, Security Update 2019-003 High Sierra, Security Update 2019-003 Sierra, Security Update 2019-002 High Sierra, and Security Update 2019-002 Sierra. The vulnerability is due to improper memory handling and can be triggered by a malicious application, leading to code execution with elevated privileges [1][2].

Exploitation

An attacker needs the ability to run an application on the targeted macOS system. The exploit does not require specific network position or authentication beyond standard user-level access. By executing the malicious application, the memory corruption can be exploited to achieve arbitrary code execution within the kernel context.

Impact

Successful exploitation allows the attacker to execute arbitrary code with system (kernel) privileges, leading to full compromise of the operating system, including the ability to install malware, access sensitive data, or take control of the device [1][2].

Mitigation

Apple addressed the issue in macOS Mojave 10.14.5, macOS Mojave 10.14.4, Security Update 2019-003 High Sierra, Security Update 2019-003 Sierra, Security Update 2019-002 High Sierra, and Security Update 2019-002 Sierra. Users should update to the latest available versions or apply the appropriate security updates. No workaround is documented [1][2].