CVE-2023-41992: Apple kernel privilege escalation via insufficient checks

Automated analysis

Generated by VULONE's analysis model from the NVD record, CISA KEV and EPSS data on 17 September 2026. Confidence: medium.

high priorityCVSS 7.8 with local privilege escalation to kernel, confirmed KEV listing and vendor acknowledgement of possible active exploitation justify high priority despite the local attack vector.

What it is

Apple kernel code did not perform adequate checks, allowing a local attacker to elevate privileges. Apple states it is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited against iOS versions before 16.7, so it matters for both patching and incident review.

Impact

An attacker who can already run code on the device gains kernel-level privileges, breaking the platform security boundary and enabling full control of the system.

Attack surface

The vector is local (AV:L) with low privileges required (PR:L) and no user interaction (UI:N), so the attacker must already have a foothold or local access on the target device.

Exploitation

Listed in CISA KEV with a 2023-10-16 remediation due date, and Apple acknowledges possible active exploitation; EPSS 30-day probability is about 2.9 percent.

What to do

• Update to macOS Monterey 12.7, macOS Ventura 13.6, iOS 16.7 or iPadOS 16.7 as applicable, per Apple advisories HT213927, HT213931 and HT213932.
• Inventory Apple devices and confirm none remain on versions earlier than the fixed releases.
• Restrict local code execution and untrusted app installation on managed devices to reduce the foothold this flaw requires.
• Treat KEV due date 2023-10-16 as the remediation deadline and track exceptions.
• Monitor for post-exploitation behavior on unpatched devices since exploitation implies prior local access.

Detection

• Hunt for unexpected privilege escalation or kernel-level activity on Apple endpoints running pre-16.7 iOS/iPadOS or pre-12.7/13.6 macOS.
• Review endpoint telemetry for processes gaining root or kernel context outside normal update and management flows.
• Correlate device OS build versions against the fixed releases to find unpatched assets.
• Check for indicators tied to known exploit chains reported against iOS before 16.7, where available.

This assessment is produced automatically and is not human-reviewed. Verify against the vendor advisory before acting on it.