CVE-2024-54514

Root

Cause and Affected Systems

CVE-2024-54514 is a logic issue in the kernel or system service responsible for enforcing application sandbox restrictions on Apple platforms. The vulnerability allows a malicious application to break out of its sandbox and access system resources or user data that would normally be restricted [1][2]. The flaw was addressed with improved checks and file handling, and is present in iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2, macOS Sonoma 14.7.2, macOS Ventura 13.7.2, tvOS 18.2, and watchOS 11.2 [1][2][3][4]. Notably, several related vulnerabilities (such as CVE-2024-54488, which exposes the Hidden Photos Album without authentication) were also fixed in the same releases, indicating a broader audit of file handling and access controls.

Attack

Vector and Prerequisites

To exploit CVE-2024-54514, an attacker must first have the ability to run an app on the target device—this could be a legitimate but malicious app distributed through the App Store or sideloaded on jailbroken devices. No additional authentication is required beyond that point; the exploit occurs at the application layer, leveraging improperly validated operations that bypass the sandbox. The vulnerability does not require physical access or network proximity, making it a local privilege escalation after initial code execution [1][2].

Impact

Successful exploitation gives an attacker an elevated ability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the sandboxed process, but outside its intended restrictions. This could lead to unauthorized access to files, sensitive user information (such as contacts, photos, or Keychain items), or the ability to install additional payloads with greater system access. The severity score of 8.6 (CVSS 3.1) reflects the high impact on confidentiality and availability, though the attack complexity and user interaction requirements are uncertain [1][2][3][4].

Mitigation and

Status

Apple has released patches for all affected operating systems as of December 11, 2024 (iOS 18.2, etc.). Users are strongly advised to update their devices to the latest available version. There is no evidence of active exploitation in the wild, but the vulnerability is rated High and could be leveraged in targeted attacks. No workarounds have been published; the only remediation is installing the security updates [1][2][3][4].